NATURAL BEAUTY - IN GOD'S COUNTRY Adventures in the canyon
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LOWVELD
IN GOD’S
COUNTRY
Adventures in
the canyon
NATURAL
BEAUTY
KHENSANI NGOBENI-MKIZE
IS UNDENIABLY FLAWLESS
SHOPPING, PEOPLE AND LIFESTYLE IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD
MARCH 2019
RM-LI2199709NG
GET IT
Editorial
CONTENTS
Phone: 013-754-1600
Lowveld Media
12 Stinkhout Crescent, Mbombela
Twitter: @getitlowveld
Facebook: Get it Lowveld
Website: lowveld.getitonline.co.za
Editor
Mellissa Bushby
084-319-2101 / mellissa@getitlowveld.co.za
Contributing writers
Liezel Lüneburg
A HOT DATE
38
083-287-2225
Lindi Botha 4 Visit a music festival, browse a craft
082-494-8005 market or enjoy a picnic for charity
Mia Louw
073-389-9761 BOOK CLUB
Photographers 5 What’s new on the book scene, plus join
Hennie Homann
the Get it Book Club
082-880-1911
Mia Louw
073-389-9761 WISH LIST
Belinda Erasmus 6 Your shopping hotlist for March
082-567-0596
Odette Hartzenburg SOCIAL
071-351-8214
8 Olé! Mexico comes to town with a salsa
Tanya Roos
083-778-7725 and a swagger
Layout 10 A literary success with Pen in My Hand
Sandile Maluleke / Elbé Meyer / Jolandi Coetzee 11 Smooch a pooch and cuddle a cat at
Advertising sales consultant Pro-Life’s annual fundraiser
Jenni Semmens
082-342-8208 / jenni@getitlowveld.co.za
Subeditors
PEOPLE
Jess Steyn / Nicola Brits / May Nel / 12 Flawless
Matthew Booth Khensani Ngobeni reveals her secret to a
Distribution happy life and healthy skin
Monya Burger 16 Earning your wings
083-555-4992
Tucked away on the outskirts of Dullstroom
Get it Lowveld is distributed at selected outlets
in the Lowveld lies an inspiring haven for injured birds
Printers
CTP Printers, Cape Town FASHION & BEAUTY
021-929-6200 20 Dream outfit
Get a good night’s sleep with our selection
Get it head office
of comfy pyjamas
National group editor
Kym Argo
kyma@caxton.co.za HEALTH
National sales manager 22 Healing by needle COMMUNITY
Shirley Frattaroli.083-633-6100 An ancient Eastern approach to health and 32 Kids on TRAC
shirleyf@caxton.co.za wellness The low-down on traffic circles and how they
really work
Front cover
Khensani Ngobeni-Mkize FOOD 34 Enough to go around
Make-up: Elscha Tintinger, Blazing Beauty, 24 Some like it hot The wonderful world of thrift shops and the
081-046-1350 There’s nothing like a delicious chilli sauce treasures they hold
Photographer: Belinda Erasmus, Belle-Grace to add some spice to a meal
Photography, 082-567-0596 28 Uniquely Lowveld TRAVEL
Competition rules Autumn deliciousness right on our 38 Ready to ramble
The judges’ decision is final. Prizes cannot be doorstep Put on your walking shoes and experience the
transferred or redeemed for cash. Competitions are beauty of the Blyde River on foot
not open to the sponsors or Caxton employees or
their families. GET IT MAGAZINE reserves the right to
ART
publish the names of winners, who will be contacted 30 This month’s DIY BACK PAGE
telephonically and need to collect their prizes from We show you the beauty behind vibrant 48 Spoil
Lowveld Media within 10 days. colours and mesmerising patterns This month’s fabulous gift
Issue 157
March 2019
A hot date!Pencil these events into your March diary right now!
2 The award-winning Skhumba Hlophe brings his larger-than-life comedy,
#ImeanBizniss, to the Emnotweni stage in Mbombela. This Tembisa-born
comic has blazed the Soweto/Tshwane Comedy Festival and his humour will
crack up even the hardest critics. Skhumba is a regular on the comedy circuit in
Johannesburg and Durban with a trail of sold-out shows - now it’s your turn to
be entertained! The show is 8pm for 8:30pm. Tickets are R165 per person and
can be bought via Computicket.
8 The Local Gospel Skouspel is a must. Held at Manna Church outside
White River, the event is 6:30pm for 7pm. The line-up is fantastic, so don’t
miss out! A cash tuck shop will be available. Tickets cost R100 (adults) and R20
(children). They can be bought at Face & Body Synergy in White River. This
fundraiser is in aid of Children in Distress. For more info, contact 082-441-6694
or 013-750-1406.
9 The Market at Runway Zero4 is a new monthly affair at the Nelspruit
If you have a date for our diary, email the info at least a month in advance to jess@lowvelder.co.za
Airfield. It will be held every second Saturday and the aim is to create a
regular trading space for fabulous Lowveld talent. Artists, musicians, crafters
and creators are welcome to come and showcase their products and wares.
Enquiries: Peta on 082-331-0712 or marketrunway@gmail.com.
14 Lowvelders, let your creativity flow at the Ashley Heather Ring
Workshop when you make your dream ring in recycled sterling silver.
The design and style are entirely up to you and you'll be helped, step by step,
8
to carve it in jeweller's wax. After the event, hosted at Weylandts Nelspruit,
your creation will be professionally cast in sterling silver and sent to you.
Tickets cost R1 400 and it is from 5pm to 8pm. Visit www.ashleyheather.co.za to
secure your spot.
16 Get ready for the Sappi Mankele Challenge at Mankele. Trail running
(6km, 10km and 20km) and mountain bike races (2,5km, 12km, 22km,
34km and 60km) are on the cards for athletes. Presented by the NG Kerk
Alkmaar, this family fun day offers food stalls, tea garden, jumping castles,
Join us for the inaugural Hope Picnic at the
veggies and plants for sale, and much more. To enter, visit www.cyclingsa.
Lowveld National Botanical Garden - a new
co.za or www.ticketrush.co.za. Enquiries: 082-338-9532 (event info) and
platform for CANSA Relay For Life. This year the
078-801-0453 (accommodation).
event will be celebrated as a family picnic under
the stars where friends, families, businesses
and individuals can show their support and
21-24 Make sure you don't miss out on the magical Wakkerstroom
Music Festival (WMF) which celebrates classical music and art.
Every year, the WMF transforms the scenic little town into a vibrant hub of
participate in various fun and games. Gates open
at 5pm, the event starts at 6pm. Tickets are R100
per person, R50 for primary school kids and
activity. As a result, Wakkerstroom has fast earned its reputation as the centre preschoolers enter free of charge. Tickets can be
of social and cultural life in the area. Highlights range from jazz and piano bought from the CANSA Lowveld Care Centre or
concertos to harpsichord, cello and flute performances. For more info, visit the Innibos offices. Enquiries: Sandra/Mariolise on
www.wmfestival.co.za. 013-741-5294.
4 Get It • Lowveld March 2019
Book Club
Thrillers to get the adrenalin going
Two books... four gripping
James Patterson stories
One new thriller from James Patterson
is great. When there are three... bonus! MPUMALANGA
The House Next Door has three gripping,
WINE
chilling thrillers - each in print for the
first time. The House Next Door (with
Susan DiLallo) revolves around married
mother of four, Laura Sherman, who
was thrilled when her new neighbour
SHOW
invited her on some errands. But a few
quick tasks became a long lunch - and
now things could go too far with a man
who isn’t what he seems. In The Killer’s Wife (with Max DiLallo), six girls have gone missing
and Detective McGrath knows the only way to find them is to get close to the suspect’s
wife. Maybe too close! In The Witnesses (with Brendan DuBois), the Sanderson family has
been forced into hiding after one of them stumbled upon a criminal plot. Or so they think.
No one will answer their questions. And the terrifying truth may come too late. Penguin,
R290. When news of President Tucker’s affair hits the airwaves, he’s caught up in a media
firestorm. The scandal threatens his re-election campaign... He needs the First Lady to
5 & 6 April
stand by his side if he’s going to win the vote. But Grace has a mind of her own, and after
years of compromise, unfulfilled promises, deception and betrayal, she refuses to give in
to her husband’s demands. Instead she escapes the city, loses her Secret Service agents
Emnotweni
and is officially off the radar. But did she really run away, or is she in far greater danger than
anyone could have imagined? The First Lady by James Patterson and Brendan DuBois is a 17:00 - 21:00
gripping read... perfect for a lazy Sunday on the sofa. Penguin, R290.
computicket.com
Exceptionally exciting debut by No under 18s
the new queen of thrillers
A plane crash sees Allison losing the life
she’s built for herself - her perfect fiancé and
their world of luxury - is gone in the blink mpumalangawineshow.co.za
of an eye. She’s survived the crash, but she’s
now running from a man who appears to
be stalking her every move. Meanwhile her
mum, Maggie, refuses to believe her daughter
is missing presumed dead, and sets out to
discover what’s really happening. Freefall
is an exceptional debut novel by Jessica
Barry (a pseudonym) that explores the deep
and complex bond between mothers and
daughters. It has secured a major Hollywood
film deal. Penguin, R290.
Wish List
Perfect coffee, silky shimmer and eco-straws
Very velvety
We love the gorgeous Velvet is the in thing for 2019,
and the Vue dining chair is
Glenelly Glass Collection! the perfect choice for homes
Wondering what to stock your bar in need of a pop of colour
fridge with? Well, wonder no more... and designer touch. It is fully
meet the Glenelly Glass Collection. upholstered in a plush velvet
First up, the unwooded Chardonnay. fabric and finished off with
Think zesty citrus fruits, melon, papaya long wooden legs. At
and ripe pears laced with honeysuckle 54cm wide and 86cm
notes and a touch of cloves. This is high, this designer chair
not only an ideal wine, but it is also will go perfectly with
one of the most versatile food-friendly any modern dining
pairings out there. Then there’s the table. Available
magnificent Cabernet Sauvignon in a variety of
which is also great if you drink it colours, they
slightly chilled (around 14 to 18 retail at
degrees). A 2018 Veritas Double Gold R2 995 and are
medallist, the Cabernet boasts notes available from
of black currants and cherries, mint, www.mobelli.
roasted coffee beans and tobacco. co.za.
Around R105 from good bottle stores.
Fancy a cuppa? A bit of shimmer
Imagine someone making This highlighting blotting paper provides
the perfect cup of a pretty and glam shimmering effect. To set
coffee, time and captivating highlights, simply apply
time again. The on the desired area of the face,
revolutionary press lightly et voila - you’re done!
Wi-Fi/app enabled Available at Dischem for R49,95.
Appkettle does just
that. It saves your
favourite beverage
tastes, types, brewing
times and even
temperature, and will
keep the water warm
for up to 30 minutes.
This marvellous
appliance even
reminds you to fill
the kettle the night
before! Available at
Makro, the Appkettle
retails for around R2 000.
6 Get It • Lowveld March 2019
WgIivNin!g away
y
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of colo titions@getit bject
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The last straw!
Silistraw is a reusable silicone straw that can be easily cleaned, folded
and stored in a convenient small capsule resulting in no mess. Silicon
is reusable, non-toxic, BPA-free, environmentally conscious, durable,
foldable, easy to clean, dishwasher-friendly and has no metallic after
taste. The simple truth is that 500 million plastic straws are used
and discarded every day in the US alone, and each year one million
seabirds and 100 000 marine animals die from ingesting plastic It is a
fact that in our lifetime, our oceans will be home to more plastic than
fish, a shocking statistic. Find them at www.silistraw.co.za.
Awesome autumn
This autumn, H&M is collaborating with Morris & Co, the
quintessentially British interiors brand founded in 1861 by
William Morris, one of the most influential designers of the
Arts and Crafts Movement. The collection features some of
the most recognised archival prints in romantic yet tailored
designs and will be available in South Africa from March 28.
RM-NE151409NG
Salsa staff Sascha and Dana van der Westhuizen
Mexican fiesta
Salsa at i’langa Mall in Mbombela officially opened its doors with a celebration of note.
Miguel Pregueiro entertained guests with Spanish versions of popular songs and the
fiesta was topped off with a feast of traditional Mexican dishes as well as Salsa’s
speciality craft tequilas and cocktails. To fit in with the Mexican theme, guests had their
faces painted as if it were the traditional Mexican Day of the Dead, and wore sombreros.
Welma and Lily Steyn
JP and Elsje Erasmus
Front: Stephen and Tershia Goetze with
(back) Liza Bernard and Melissa Goetze Nothando Mkutshwa and Portia Sambo Miguel Pregueiro
8 Get It • Lowveld March 2019The Janse van Rensburg family: Jacques,
Ronelle, Roneque and Rocque
Jacques Lombard with Lilly and Claud Kruger
Kyle Thompson and Jacques van Zyl
RM-MU181709NG
Colletha Noppé, Greg Rattray, De Wet
Potgieter, Cas Colbe and Julia BurgerSue and Steve Royle Iona and Peter Wendelspiess A literary success Lowvelder’s recent Pen in My Hand took guests all the way back to the digger’s period in Pilgrim’s Rest. Hosted at A Bica Coffee Shop in Mbombela, the speaker for the evening was author and historian René Reinders who spoke to Gerrit Haaroff about her book, Pilgrim’s Rest Who’s Who: 1873 to 1881. The pair discussed various people mentioned in Reinders’ book. It is available at Kruger Lowveld Tourism’s information offices at Crossing Centre. Pam and Peter Hughes Ute Fourie and Yvonne McHeath Sheryn Nader and Margie Blount Gerrit Haaroff, René Reinders Eunice Malatji, Duncan Ballantyne and Marius Bakkes and Christinah Mpinga-Nkosi 10 Get It • Lowveld March 2019
Ashley Betteridge Lara Burgess Eunise Swanepoel Lauren Mallett Love all animals The annual Valentine’s Smooch a Pooch and Cuddle a Cat day at Pro-Life Pet Rescue, Rehabilitation and Adoption Agency was a roaring success! The animals loved the attention, the book sale drew many an interested buyer, and the visitors got to spoil a rescue dog or cat for the day. Vanessa and Samantha Bekker Marli and Mia Kuyber
Photo: Belinda Erasmus 12 Get It • Lowveld March 2019
Khensani Ngobeni and Ashanti Lwazi Mkize and Gugulabambo
FLAWLESS
Dermatologist Khensani Ngobeni is a successful career and family woman all in one.
Get it visits her to find out how she manages.
K
hensani was born in Bushbuckridge as The family moved around quite a bit. For to manage these conditions. And because
the second of five daughters and grew a while, they stayed in Giyani, capital of the experience is the mother of wisdom, and in
up in a house where books, reading then Gazankulu, and she matriculated at conjunction with the fact that she sees herself
and academics formed an inseparable Giyani High School. After finishing matric she as a teacher by nature, it’s not surprising that
part of everyday life. Her mother, Theodora, studied a BSc (Dietetics) degree at Medunsa. she chose this field.
was a teacher and encouraged her Khensani found her way to dermatology “In medicine, knowledge is power - not
daughters’ love of knowledge and guided in an unexpected way. “When I did my only for practitioners but also for patients,”
them in reaching their full academic internship as a dietician, I had to advise a she explains. “A patient needs to fully
potential. She still lives in the Lowveld. seriously ill cancer patient on dietary needs,” understand her condition as well as possible
Her father, the late David Ngobeni, was a she says. “The patient kept on saying that he solutions before she can begin to heal. I
jurist and many Lowvelders will remember is in pain and needs a doctor, not a dietician. have a passion for explaining these things
him as the former Chief Magistrate for I felt utterly helpless and inadequate.” This to desperate people seeking answers to dire
Mbombela. He was a man of stature and made Khensani realise that she would rather skin conditions.”
was held in high regard by all. Chief Justice assist patients on a different level and she It is plain that she is passionate about
Mogoeng Mogoeng wrote at the time of enrolled for a degree in medicine. what she does. Not only does Khensani talk
his death in 2014: “I know for a fact that he After finishing her MBChB degree she enthusiastically about her profession, but
was a gallant fighter for justice and he still decided to specialise in dermatology. Medical she is also actively involved in a community
had an immense contribution to make in specialisation puts immense pressure on project to create awareness and knowledge
this regard. We applaud David’s indomitable students and is nearly unbearable at times. regarding albinism. This subject really gets
spirit and contribution to ensuring that our There were many days when Khensani her talking and she fiercely fights against
Text: Liezel Lüneburg
people have access to justice through his wanted to quit, but perseverance and marginalism and rejection of the vulnerable
service to our judicial system which spanned tenacity are definitely two of her most people belonging to this minority group.
almost 40 years.” positive characteristics. You cannot help but wonder how she copes
It is clear that Khensani was raised by two But why did she choose the skin as her with the demands of running a medical
strong-willed parents of firm principles and field of knowledge? Khensani herself has a practice on the one side and being a mother
it is no wonder that she has a successful problematic, sensitive skin prone to eczema on the other.
story to tell. and acne and has learnt through experience Good medical specialists are in short supply
March 2019 Get It • Lowveld 13and usually extremely busy. Khensani is no
exception and she describes the balance Miyelani, Zanele, Thembelihle, Theodora (mother) and Khensani
between work and family as a complicated
act. She and husband, Lwazi Mkize, a
neurosurgeon, have three children - Ashanti
is 15, Gugulabambo nearly three and Dan
II eight months. Both Khensani and Lwazi
practised in Pretoria, but when her father
died in 2014, she relocated to Mbombela to
be with her mother. At first, they commuted
between cities but Lwazi quickly fell in love
with the Lowveld and he decided to also
move his practice to Mbombela.
It is easy to imagine that Khensani needs
to keep quite a few balls in the air at any one
time, and you may wonder how she does it,
but this vivacious, passionate woman clearly
puts a high premium on family.
“Both career and motherhood should
be seized without compromise - when at
work, I give everything and when at home,
my family has my undivided attention,” she
says. Saturday is family time and they love
to venture on trips exploring the beautiful
surrounds. Chill time is just as important, and
Khensani loves reading, especially books by
new South African authors and biographies.
“The truth is, it’s not easy to be both a
successful mom and medical practitioner,
but definitely doable. I need to focus on
being hands-on,” Khensani muses. “I try to
be at home to bath the little ones and to
drive Ashanti to and from school. You will not
believe me, but the time spent in the car is
special in its own way.
“We talk about what is going on in our lives
and get to know each other better. I have
realised how important quality over quantity
time with my children is, and enjoy every
minute in their company to the fullest.”
Treat your skin with love
and respect
• It is important to use a mild cleanser which veggies and fruit is vital to a healthy skin.
It goes without saying that Khensani is does not contain too many chemicals. When • The concept of “beauty sleep” is no myth!
best qualified to give valuable advice on choosing a cleanser, the state of your skin A good night’s rest is not only important
skincare, especially to those who struggle and skin type must be considered. for physical and psychological well-being,
with sensitive skin prone to outbreaks and • Wear sunscreen! I know that South Africans but also vital to healthy-looking skin - it is
extreme dryness: hear this ad nauseam, but it can not be repaired, regenerated and restructured while
• Try not to put on too much make-up as stressed enough. Our country has the second resting.
it clogs pores and consequently the skin highest incidence of skin cancer in the world • Any form of overindulgence can be bad
struggles to breathe. Cosmetics also tend and not respecting the hot African sun is one for your skin, for instance excessive alcohol
to worsen eczema and acne. Women who of the reasons for this. Many people do not intake. Smoking is also bad for you!
wear too much make-up over time age much realise that numerous patients succumb to
faster than those who go easy on cosmetics. skin cancer every year.
Through the years I have encouraged women GET IN TOUCH
• Hydrate the skin sufficiently by applying a
to realise that they are beautiful without Contact Khensani at her medical
trusted moisturiser and drink enough fluids.
wearing too much make-up. practice on 013-753-2770
• A well-balanced diet consisting of enough
14 Get It • Lowveld March 2019RM-MO161509NG November 2016 Get It • Lowveld 15
Earning your
M
anagement saw the importance leaving animals little wild space and perils family than colleagues.
Text: Mellissa Bushby
of a rehabilitation centre for the faced at every turn, such as ever busier roads Frith has always loved wildlife since she was
care of orphaned and injured and dangerous power lines. a child visiting the Kruger every year. “I have
birds, a need which has grown “The main thing is that this is a team effort,” had an interest in wildlife since as far back as
with the establishment now taking in and says Frith Douglas. “We couldn’t do it without I can remember,” she muses. “I don’t think of
caring for all species of wildlife. No easy our small and awesome group of people.” The this as a job, but more of a vocation, a calling.
feat, considering the urbanisation of land team consists of Frith and Magdali Theron, Our motto has always been ‘Why wait for
and rapid growth of human development, with six other members who are more like something to be on the brink of extinction
Front: Frith Douglas, (middle) Londi Mtshweni, Lindiwe Mabena, Vusi
Mahlangu, Brian Chinhuto, Magdali Theron (back) and Mishak Letswalo
16 Get It • Lowveld March 2019wings
No trip to Dullstroom is complete without a visit
to the remarkable Dullstroom Bird of Prey and
Rehabilitation Centre. Established in 1997, the initial
objective was to educate people about the plight
of raptors, promoting awareness of these incredible
creatures as an increasingly threatened group of birds.
We find out more.
before doing something about it’. All species
are interlinked, not just the pretty, cuddly,
money-generating ones. We believe we need
to work on all species to keep the balance.
"When Mark Holder (original owner) found
out he had cancer and would not be able to
return to the centre, we were approached
to see if we would like to take over. The
alternative was that it would be closed and
the birds euthanised. We could not let that
happen, so although we are permitted to
rescue, rehabilitate and release all species of
indigenous wildlife, people tend to see us
only as a bird of prey centre, and we jumped
at the chance to keep what he had achieved
alive and going. We are in our fifth year now
and still going strong!”
The centre’s resident birds, current count
110, are non-releasable and have been
given sanctuary on a permanent basis. “They
are all physically, mentally or emotionally
damaged," she says, sadly.
“Physically where they have come in with
injuries that means they cannot survive in
the wild, but can still have quality of life in a
captive situation. They act as ambassadors
for the species or are involved in breeding
programmes where their offspring can be
reintroduced to the wild.
“Mental/emotional damage is when they
have imprinted on human rescuers and
therefore do not know what they are. They
see themselves as humans and will never
breed or survive in the wild as they will
always seek out human company rather than
their own kind. People may mean well, trying
to help, but misinformation and ignorance
often lead to us having to make hard
decisions at the end of
the day."
The rewards, when they come, are
incomparable, and we consider every release
a success story. “Some of the birds of prey are
in our care for up to two years to get them
fit and ready for release, and to see them go
eventually is the best feeling there is,” she
smiles. “One of our spotted eagle-owls, Molly,
is a surrogate for all our orphaned spotted
eagle-owl chicks and she successfully raises
at least 15 to 20 per year for us. By putting
March 2019 Get It • Lowveld 17chicks in with her, they do not become imprinted, so their chances
of a successful release are greatly increased. We treat, rehabilitate
and release between 150 to 200 birds every year, which for a small
centre like ours is a great achievement.”
Obviously, they are wild and not used to people or confinement,
which makes them frightened and unpredictable. “They present
a challenge, because they become dangerous if they feel
threatened, but to gain their trust and work alongside them,
helping them to get fit and flight-ready is immensely rewarding.
At this stage, Magdali uses falconry techniques on the birds,
Photo: Gerhardt van der Watt
building up a relationship with them for up to a year before
releasing them.” Frith is more back of house in the clinic, where
she deals with the sick and injured birds, either getting them to
a point where they can be worked using falconry or placed in
outdoor enclosures to regain their strength before being sent out
for soft release.
As is so often the case, funding, which is imperative for the
survival of organisations such as this one, is scarce. “Funding?
‘Why wait for something to be
on the brink of extinction before
doing something about it’
What does that mean?” Frith laughs. “No, seriously, we are not
government-funded, and when you are contending against much
bigger organisations with ‘marketable’ species like rhinos, big cats
and so on, it is near impossible to secure funding to expand and
improve. At this stage, we meet our running costs with money
generated from the centre, but we have to save for any special
projects like new enclosures and upgraded facilities. With fuel
prices rising, we are also not always able to get out to rescues, as
we use our private vehicles which are old and not fuel-efficient.
One of our major challenges currently is that our food supplier
for the birds has relocated to the Free State. We now have to
purchase a freezer trailer so that we can fetch food on a monthly
basis without it going bad on the journey.”
All our income comes from the kind support of the community
18 Get It • Lowveld March 2019and business sector. The establishment generates income
through entrance fees, sponsorships, and activities such as fishing,
photographic days and handling experiences. We also sometimes
get our owls to fly wedding rings, or birds do film shoots or away
exhibitions (when possible).”
THE
Looking after these animals is crucial. Africa’s vultures are being
decimated by illegal and accidental poisoning, the muti trade and
of course senseless electrocution on power lines. “The end result is
a potential ecological catastrophe for the continent, and a threat
to human health. Vultures have a poor public image but play a
fundamental ecological role, providing vital and efficient 'ecosystem
services' and effectively cleaning up the environment.
“Africa is home to 11 of the 23 vulture species worldwide. Once
common and widespread across the continent, four of Africa’s vulture
species are rated as ‘critically endangered' and at risk of extinction,
COMPANY
while three are listed as 'endangered' by the IUCN (International
Union of the Conservation of Nature) in 2019. In Asia, several
populations of vultures have declined by up to 95% over the past
few decades. Unlike the Asian Vulture Crisis, where the collapse of
populations had a single main cause (veterinary drug, diclofenac),
there appear to be multiple drivers for the situation in Africa, with the
importance of each varying between species and regions.”
Apart from the raptors, there are a few other animals that for various
reasons are non-releasable and are given sanctuary. “At the moment
we have eight tortoises, a blue crane, a grey duiker, an African serval
and a couple of garden birds,” Frith smiles.
A visit to this incredible initiative is a must. “Come and see what we
do. You can sponsor a bird or an aviary, and learn the ways of these
wonderful creatures, it is through education that people learn to love SWITCH – AND GET MORE ...
and therefore preserve.”
The centre opens to the public at 9am, and the morning flying
demonstration starts at 10:30am, while the afternoon free flight
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SA Home Loans is a Registered Credit Provider. Registration
November 2016Number NCRCP1735.
Get It • Lowveld 19JT ONE
Floral slogan print
sleep T-shirt, R160,
Woolworths | Soft
chambray sleep shorts,
R160, Woolworths |
Sleep mask, R99,
H&M.
DREA Going to bed is an adventure and you should
dress up for the occasion! Spice up your
sleepwear with a few new comfy, quirky
and modern items. Here are some of
Fluffy m
ule slipp
o lwo
ers,
rths
our favourites you can add to your
,W o
R181,57 n with
| Nightg
ow shopping list.
d design,
printe
M
R249, H& Bouqet bloom kimono
gown, R249, Cotton
On | Pom-pom velour
band slippers, R180,
Woolworths
Compiled by Elbé Meyer. Photography: Matthys Ferreria
Flamingo
print band
slippers, R100,82,
Woolworths | Navy rib
lace tank top, R199, Cotton
On | Boyfriend Jersey
TIP Wear the right PJs for
a good night’s sleep
It’s important to wear loose and breathable sleepwear.
shorts, R249, Cotton On
| Sleep mask, R99, Always opt for cotton, silk or organic flowing materials.
H&M Silk is an excellent thermoregulator, it keeps your
body warm when you’re cold and cool when you’re
hot. Another great option is bamboo. It is both
moisture wicking and hypoallergenic. Look out for
the Premium Sleep Bamboo range at Cotton On.
20 Get It • Lowveld March 2019AM OUTFIT Grey Marle sleep
recovery pocket
tank (made from
bamboo viscose
Mickey
Mouse cotton
sleep T-shirt, R220,
Woolworths | Black
fabric) R249, Marle sleep recovery pants,
Cotton On | (made from bamboo viscose
Sleepwear fabric) R349, Cotton
pants, R179, On | Pom-pom mule
H&M slippers, R161,40,
Woolworths
Tropical viscose
gown, R379 | Smart
foam slippers, R170,
Woolworths
Fluffy
sleep mask,
R99, | Nightgown
with printed design,
R229 | Over-the-
knees socks (two
pack), R149,
H&M
Stockists
• H&M i’langa Mall, 086-069-0707
• Cotton On i’langa Mall, 013-742-2055
• Woolworths i’langa Mall, 013-742-9100
March 2019 Get It • Lowveld 21HEALING
BY NEEDLE
Acupuncture is a form of alternative medicine used to treat a wide range of conditions.
A specialist in this field, Sanna Atherton of White River, explains how it works.
S
anna was born in Jyväskylä, where her Sanna will run solo again.
family still lives. It is the largest city in It is interesting to note that acupuncture is in
Central Finland and is known as the many cases the first choice when it comes to
“Athens of Finland” as it plays a major addressing pain or illness in the East, Europe
role as an educational centre. It is thus no and the United States. This is not so in South
surprise that Sanna loves knowledge. She Africa and locals still seem to be sceptical
also believes in natural learning and her two about alternative medicine.
children, Luuka and Maya, are homeschooled. Acupuncture is a key component of ancient
She qualified as a practical nurse, traditional Chinese medicine and a complete,
specialising in mental health and substance interesting and rather complex system. “The
abuse and left Finland in 1998 to work in human organism is formed of multiple layers,”
England, where she met her South African Sanna explains.
husband, Bradley Atherton. “To address disease and pain, there is
Sanna worked as a carer in London and it is nothing more knowledgeable to guide
there where she first became acquainted with the healing process than the body itself.
acupuncture. “I had a sore back because of Acupuncture stimulates the body on many
stress and a friend suggested acupuncture. levels: the brain responds to each needle
It was the very first time I tried alternative and can direct blood to the affected area. As
medicine and immediately fell in love.” the brain responds, the body is stimulated to
She enrolled for studies at the Academy manufacture and release cells that migrate
of Oriental Medicine in London and later on to the injured tissue, area or organ to initiate
did her clinical practicals in a government repair.”
hospital in Beijing. The language of acupuncture uses the
Sanna and Bradley moved to White River at word qi or chi to explain what practitioners
the end of 2006 and for a while she practised are working with. In Western terms qi is
acupuncture from home in order to be with simply medicine’s equivalent to adenosine
her children. She established the Shen Centre triphosphate, which transports chemical
at Bahati Centre just outside town in 2015 energy within cells for metabolism. It also
and expanded relates to nitric oxide, which helps to nourish
‘To address disease and pain, there is nothing her clinic with
partner Luis
and move blood.
According to Sanna, pain is the most
Damas in May common reason why people seek treatment.
more knowledgeable to guide the healing 2018. Luis has Analgesics are not expected to heal pain, only
decided to leave to manage it. Acupuncture, on the other hand,
process than the body itself’ South Africa for Europe
in the near future and
can assist the body in healing muscles and
nerves, where most pain originates.
22 Get It • Lowveld March 2019But acupuncture does not only treat. Sanna
suggests that anyone could benefit as it is
also preventative. “Health is tied to the body’s
ability to adapt and if a person’s health is
good, illness could be prevented before it
occurs,” she says. “In ancient China, doctors
focused on health and not on sickness.” This
sounds logical and one wonders when this
outlook changed and why.
Acupuncture is done by inserting very thin
needles into acupoints and most people
feel little or no pain. The chosen points
are based on the problem. The treatment
could be just about anywhere in the body.
“Hundreds of acupoints have been identified
and there are about 80 in the hand alone,”
Sanna says. “Many of these are located
on one of the main meridians. These are
pathways of information transmission that
run throughout the body.”
After the needles are inserted, the patient
rests while the body does its work. Most
patients fall asleep or relax deeply.
Text: Liezel Lüneburg. Photography: Hennie Homann
Do not feel discouraged if you are afraid
of needles! Sanna practises acupressure
and cupping, which is not as powerful as
acupuncture, but can also be helpful. This
technique involves pressing or massaging
the acupoints to stimulate energy pathways.
Acupressure, works well for smaller children
who are not ready to be punctured by
needles.
All of us are in need of a more holistic
approach to health and well-being in general.
Acupuncture seems to be a good alternative
or supplement to conventional medicine and
worth the try.
GET IN TOUCH
Contact Sanna on 076-695-5261 for more
information or an appointment
Sanna Atherton
March 2019 Get It • Lowveld 23Some like it Chipotle chili sauce 24 Get It • Lowveld March 2019
hot!
Text: Lindi Botha. Photography: Tanya Roos
Our climate is just the right kind of hot to produce the right
kind of heat - the tantalising, shifting-in-your-seat kind that
can only come from chillies lighting up your tongue. We speak
to three passionate sauce fundis about creating a uniquely
Lowveld chilli-flavoured experience.
Tin Giraffe chipotle
chili sauce
Mozambique for many years, chillies are
part of my DNA!” he laughs.
A chance meeting with a Mexican at a
dinner party one night sparked Charles’
Grown in the Lowveld, then dried and interest in chipotle chillies, as their smoky
smoked, the chillies that make up Tin flavour is unlike most of the other hot
Giraffe chipotle chili sauce offer something sauces on the South African market. He
different to the traditional fare South clarifies that chipotles are not a type
African palates are accustomed to. It was of chilli, but rather jalapeños that are
this differentiation that finally convinced smoked and dried.
Charles Deane to embark on his lifelong “I played around with the recipe and
dream of producing his own sauce. experimented with drying and smoking
Charles spent much of his life farming for about five years before finally going
in the region and always harboured a into production.
desire to add value to the tomatoes and “I built my own smoker and drier and
chillies he produced, thus creating his have been importing oak bisquettes from
own condiment. “And having lived in Canada for the smoking process. The
wood makes a major difference to the
flavour, so it’s important to use the same
kind and for the same duration to keep it
consistent.”
While the smoky, earthy flavour of
Tin Giraffe sets it aside from most other
sauces on the market, Charles admits that
this is both fortunate and problematic.
“Chipotle is still relatively unknown in
South Africa, while in America and Mexico
it’s all they eat. So creating a market for
the sauce takes a little longer.”
Fortune, however, favours the brave and
after one taste, the sauce sells itself!
WHERE TO GET IT: Bagdad Farmer’s
Market, Halls Farm Stall and SUPERSPAR at
Crossing and Riverside
FLAVOUR PROFILE: Smoky, warm and
earthy
HEAT LEVEL: 7/10
ENJOY WITH: Steak, chicken and nachos
or add to any dishes for a smoky, spicy
flavour
GET IN TOUCH
Charles Deane on 082-306-5771
March 2019 Get It • Lowveld 25Epa! vinherb garlic produce it and today they also grow all of
the ingredients on their farm in Waterval
WHERE TO GET IT: Selected SPARs
in the Lowveld and Perry’s Bridge
chilli pesto Boven.
Raymond says much of their success is
Farmer’s Market
FLAVOUR PROFILE: Fresh, green and
Fresh and zesty, this Epa! pesto is lemon- due to the direct sales approach they have lemony
based, rather than vinegar, uncooked taken. “Initially we tackled all the local HEAT LEVEL: 7/10
and incorporates only raw ingredients farm and craft markets to see if this would ENJOY WITH: Pizza, pasta and stir-fry
grown in the Lowveld. Owner Raymond be a viable business. Now, in addition
Noppé explains that the idea behind the to supplying existing clients, we sell our GET IN TOUCH
uncooked product range is to minimise products on a national level at all of the Raymond Noppé on 082-611-6690
the effort of food preparation and to major expos, festivals and markets.”
have an easy frying, cook-in, marinade,
basting, salad dressing and table
condiment all in one!
The sauce has become well known in
the region over the past seven years,
with production consistently increasing.
Its success has been a bit of a fairy tale
as it was never expected to become a
full-time operation. “My wife, Marilu,
started offering her own home-made
sauce to patrons at our restaurant
in Mozambique and it soon became
obvious that hers was preferred to the
original, local peri-peri sauce.
“People then started asking for it in
bottles and the orders spontaneously
started rocketing to the extent where
we had to keep a different set of books
just for the sauces!” The Noppés then
set up a factory in the Lowveld to
Marilu and Raymond Noppé Epa! vinherb pesto
Marula peri-peri sauce Sakkie, who runs an estate agency, relates
how he sold his first house to a gentleman
With his involvement in the annual Marula
Makiti held in Mbombela, Sakkie decided to
who made his own chilli sauces. Having a make a marula chilli sauce from the wild fruit
As if chilli sauce couldn’t be more of a love of the kitchen instilled by his mother, shooting up all over town. With growing
proudly Lowveld product, Sakkie van Rooyen Sakkie was intrigued and the two became popularity, production now takes place year-
has created a marula infusion that offers a friends. “Sadly he passed away before sharing round and is sold throughout the Lowveld.
fruity, tangy variant that will lighten up your his recipe and later his wife asked me if I Sakkie notes that the whole family is
taste buds and leave you wanting more. wouldn’t give it a go to try and figure it out. involved in the production and it has
What started as a hobby has turned into After about a year of trial and error I came become an entrepreneural learning
the family’s side business that will hopefully, pretty close. I then gave her the recipe and experience of sorts for the children. His
eventually fund the kids’ tertiary education. continued playing around on my own.” father is responsible for sourcing the
26 Get It • Lowveld March 2019ingredients while Sakkie and his mom
are in charge of production. All the
ingredients are found locally and he notes
that producing a natural sauce with a
long shelf life, but without additives and
starches, is paramount.
“My wife designs the labels, my sister
has them printed and the children must
stick them on the bottles. Even the
youngest niece - at five years old - has
something to do: she has to pick up all
the papers after the labels have been
stuck on! Everyone is paid their dues
and when all the work is done for the
evening, we all sit and share a meal. It’s a
wonderful family operation that brings us
all together,” Sakkie smiles.
WHERE TO GET IT: In farmstalls around
the Lowveld
FLAVOUR PROFILE: Fruity with a good
balance between acidity and sweetness
HEAT LEVEL: Mild: 6/10, Hot: 8/10
ENJOY WITH: Pregos, prawns, as a
chicken marinade and over slap chips
GET IN TOUCH
Sakkie van Rooyen with his marula peri-peri sauce
Sakkie van Rooyen on 083-632-2904
RM-WE151309NGUNIQUELY LOWVELD
Autumn deliciou
The Lowveld is renowned for being one of the top fruit and nut producers in South Africa,
and with good reason. Mellissa Bushby tells us more.
W
e have a balmy temperate also widely grown in our region. and minerals into every bite. It has the
to tropical climate, which Lowvelders love to take full advantage of perfect balance of sweet, savoury, peppery
is perfect for the growth of this bounty, and many a street corner drips and crunchy goodness, with just a hint of
subtropical fruits such as avos, with seasonal bags of fruit or nuts, filled to chilli. And remember, the beauty of salads
litchis, mangoes, oranges, lemons and the brim with Lowveld sunshine goodness. is their versatility, so feel free to mix and
bananas. And autumn is coming our way, which match.
Recent experimentation includes the means a glut of oranges and avos. Instead of chickpeas add a sliver or two
advent of exotic kiwis, agave and granadillas. Oranges are perfect for juicing, making of Parma ham or thinly sliced biltong, or
In 2010 more than 11 000 hectares of land reduction sauces, adding to chocolate, grilled chicken pieces, scatter a handful
were used for planting bananas, making eating as is or jazzing up a salad. Avos are of cranberries or pomegranate seeds over
Mpumalanga the top fruit producer in South simply marvellous, thinly sliced in a salad, the top, omit the orange segments and
Africa. Indeed, our country is one of the top chopped up and tucked into a wrap, fanned add grapefruit, swap the spinach leaves
three citrus exporters in the world, vying for out on pizza or roughly mashed with salt for rocket, and dress with a sprinkling of
second place with Turkey, while Spain is in and lemon to make guacamole; these toasted sesame seeds.
first. irresistible fruit are also packed with health This salad thrives on the addition of nuts,
While our fruit exports are so impressive, benefits. so chopped macadamias or pecans add
our macadamia nut production is as stellar. Autumn also means cooler weather, but flavour, crunch and texture. You can even
We are currently the largest producer not by any means cold in the Lowveld, so add a few dollops of salad mayonnaise or a
of macs in the world, 95% of which are indulge your senses with a delicious, hearty drizzle of olive oil and balsamic. Anything
exported, mainly to China. Pecan nuts are salad that packs flavour, protein, vitamins goes!
28 Get It • Lowveld March 2019usness
Lowveld salad
Ingredients
• 200g baby spinach leaves
•1x 410g tin of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 avo, cut into bite-size chunks
• 2 oranges, 1 peeled and segmented, the
other cut in half
• A teaspoon of dried chilli flakes, or 1 chilli,
deseeded and finely chopped
• Sea salt and cracked black pepper.
Method
• Toss the spinach onto a serving plate
and scatter the chickpeas evenly over and
among the leaves.
• Tumble the orange segments and
avocado pieces over the spinach and
chickpeas.
• Squeeze the juice from the orange halves
RM-RE217909NG
over the ensemble, and scatter the chilli
flakes on top.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Serve with chunks of still warm, crusty
ciabatta or sour bread.Vibrant
colours Look at these colourful, mesmerising patterns! Aren’t they just gorgeous?
We show you how to easily create beautiful pot stands.
T How to
he effect is achieved by using At this stage the ink will keep on mixing
Sharpie markers and rubbing although it has already dried once.
alcohol - the project is not difficult 1. Wipe the tile to ensure that the surface
at all. It is also fairly inexpensie. is clean. 4. You could add layer upon layer of ink and
Pot stands are but one of the uses for these alcohol. Experiment!
Compiled by Liezel Lüneburg. Photography: Odette Hartzenberg
colourful tiles. You could try smaller tiles as
2
coasters and paperweights or frame a larger
5
one as a beautiful decor item. As with most
craft projects, the possibilities are endless
and you can really be creative and try
different variations.
The end product makes for a beautiful,
creative gift and will warm any loved one’s
heart. Not only because of the beauty, but
also the fact that it is handmade. 2. Now use the Sharpies to colour the
tile with bold and contrasting colours. The
You will need markings can be rough as the ink is going
to flow together to form a wholly different
• White tiles - any size, depending on pattern.
what you want to use the end product for 5. Remember that trial and error is nearly
• Sharpie pens - we have tried others, but always eminent when tackling a craft project.
these work best Do not give up too easily! In this case the ink
• Rubbing alcohol, available at can be washed from the tile if you are not
pharmacies wholly satisfied with the result.
• Pipette or dripper
• Hard as Nails gloss varnish
• Anti-scratch felt pads.
3 6. When you are happy, let the ink dry
properly. Take note that it is not colourfast
and smudges easily.
3. When the tile is covered, carefully drip 7. Although it is not necessary, we have
small drops of alcohol onto the tile. The baked the tile at 180°C for 30 minutes to try
colours will flow together to form the most to improve the colourfastness of the ink.
beautiful patterns. Do not use too much as
it will just make a mess. Rather go slowly. 8. When the tile has cooled down,
You could even use less drops at a time and cautiously apply the Hard as Nails according
allow the ink to dry before adding more. to the instructions on the container. Although
30 Get It • Lowveld March 2019the tile has been baked, the colour can still 9. Now let it dry properly.
smudge. We tried a brush and sponge, but
light application with a finger works best. You 10. Stick the anti-scratch felt pads on the
can also spray the tile with art fixative before four corners of the tile to avoid scratching.
applying the varnish - this really works well to
prevent the colours from smudging.
10
8
11. And it is ready to use as a pot stand!
More ideas
• Also try using ceramic plates
and other ceramic products for the
project. It could make a beautiful
decor piece. However, we would
not recommend serving food stuff
on the plate.
• Try writing on the tile after the
first layer of Hard as Nails has dried
and then add another layer or two.
Let us know how it works!
• Every single end product will
BUCO has collaborated with Get it to feature a look different and you can be as
creative project every month. Visit Celia Swart at creative as you wish in choosing BUCO09-NN
the decor section for more creative ideas - she is the colours and the shapes.
more than willing to help and quite creative.Circle-wise
Traffic circles are problematic to two kinds of people: those who
know how it works and those who don’t. The latter frustrates the
former and, according to social media users, the uninformed are
the norm.
THIS IS HOW A TRAFFIC
CIRCLE WORKS
• In South Africa, traffic travels
clockwise around these circles.
• When entering the circle, always yield
to the right.
• When entering from (6) in the left
lane:
You may not enter the circle at (6)
and turn right towards (3). Going
clockwise, you will pass (9) and (12)
before exiting at (3).
If you intend to exit the circle at (9),
approach the circle positioned in the
left lane. Indicate that you will turn left
and do so.
If you intend to exit at, (12), (3) or (6),
lane changes may be required. Use
your discretion in choosing a lane.
Adhere to road signs. If possible, keep
left. To enable other road users to
exit the circle before you do, indicate
and turn into the inside lane. When
approaching the exit you want to take,
indicate that you will be moving into
the outer lane. After doing so, indicate
that you will turn left to leave the
circle.
South Africa: 0800 87 22 64 or 082 881 4444 or Mozambique: +258 84 34 34 34 6
32 Get It • Lowveld March 2019Moms! Enter your little one’s masterpieces in our monthly
kid’s travel-related activity competition.
EXCITING PRIZES UP FOR
GRABS EVERY MONTH!
Find the post on our Facebook page, it
will be active from the 5th to 25th of each
month. No need to enter names or ages, you
enter on their behalf and will be notified via
Facebook on the 25th should your
little one be the lucky winner.
March 2019 Get It • Lowveld 33Enoug
Refuse, reduce, reuse,
repurpose and recycle. When
thinking about the five Rs,
household waste and its
management generally comes
to mind - what we do with
our glass bottles, plastic bags
and tin cans. But what about
clothes, kitchenware and
knick-knacks? Books, records
and furniture? Whether you
are planning a spring clean
or shopping spree, pop into
one of these second-hand
shops and charity stores for a
thrifting experience.
S
eated in the Nelspruit SPCA Charity
Shop - filled to the brim with
bric-a-brac and chatty shoppers,
Bets Bellingham says, “We had this
wrought iron ornament mounted against the
wall here. The iron was extremely thick and
it gathered at a point where you could place
a big globe in it. When the ornament came
in, I gave it one look and thought, ‘This is the
ugliest thing I’ve ever seen’, but within half an
hour it was sold.”
She soon realised that the shopper had a
vision in mind for the “wrought iron thing”.
Her house is a converted barn and the
decoration would fit in perfectly against
a wall at her entrance. One man’s trash is
indeed another’s treasure.
Bets has been working in the shop for the
past year and she has seen some interesting
purchases during this time; from torn books
to a manual cake mixer that “looked like it
Bets Bellingham at the Nelspruit SPCA Charity Shop came from the ark”. Being a hairdresser most
her life, she has never even sold a bottle of
34 Get It • Lowveld March 2019gh to go around shampoo; but she quickly figured hasn’t sold by then, I make it half
out a way to successfully source and price. After two more weeks, I add
sell second-hand goods. The store it to a special where if you buy 10
solely relies on donations and Bets items, you get one free”. The goods
says she begs on their Facebook that really don’t sell, they donate
page at least three times a week. to welfare and other charities -
“I advertise everywhere I can. The absolutely nothing goes to waste.
support is good, but it slacks off for Bets’ methods seem to be
a while; especially when I stop with working. She says the shop’s
the crazy letters,” says the Pink Lady, profits increased from about R500
as she is also known. to R25 000 some months, which
“I once wrote that I am locking up goes towards expenses like vet
the shop and going to Siberia. I’m costs, pet food, cat litter, cement
buying a one-way ticket, because for the SPCA’s driveway and a
nobody wants to give donations. tiny salary for Bets to cover her
The next day, we received three travel expenses. “There was hardly
donations and two replies saying anything at the Nelspruit SPCA, but
‘I once wrote that I am locking up the shop and
going to Siberia. I’m buying a one-way ticket,
because nobody wants to give donations’
people will give me jackets and since Bets started working there
gloves for Siberia. And that’s where it changed completely,” one loyal
it all started,” Bets laughs. From customer, Emsie van Zyl, exclaims.
kooky scenarios to deliberate Emsie also runs a second-hand
spelling and grammar mistakes, she shop from her home, called
soon realised that customers missed Whispering Grace, situated on the
her letters when she stopped Plaston Road, just outside White
writing. “They started calling me River. She focuses on fixing and
on my private phone, asking what repurposing previously loved items
happened to the letters!” and sells clothing, accessories like
Bets says books, clothes and scarves and handbags, gift sets,
crockery sell the fastest. They were trinkets and plants in her small
Text and photography: Mia Louw
given 5 500 books from a second- nursery. She renovates decorations,
hand book store which closed upgrades handbags and creates
down, and they still have 4 000 left cake stands from interesting plates
at R10 to R30 per book. She also and glasses. “I always try to see the
offers deals even zanier than her potential in items. My daughter
letters: pensioners can buy always says she is truly proud of
10 books for R20. Because me - I can make something out of
everything is donated, she believes nothing,” Emsie elaborates. “I love
the prices should be kept low. the creativity involved, because
Emsie van Zyl at Whispering Grace
“When someone donates an when you start it just keeps
item, I keep it for four weeks. If it flowing”.
March 2019 Get It • Lowveld 35day’s takings and whatever they haven’t sold
they might leave for the SPCA as well.
“Our most successful event was in
December. We had about 12 or 13 vehicles.
On a bad day we make R1 000 and on a
good day about R3 500 for those three
hours,” Estelle adds. She has been involved
in animal welfare for most her life and is
thankful that her boss and human rights
attorney, Richard Spoor, understands the
time and commitment involved. She has
recently resigned from the SPCA committee
as treasurer, but she will remain involved
until the end of March to hand over the
responsibilities.
The White River SPCA Charity Shop - Barking
Bargains - has been open since April 2018
and can be found at the SPCA’s premises. For
a thrift store to be successful, location is a
key factor. They used to have a little shop in
White River’s main road for nine months, free
of rent. Even though they were open only
one day a week, they made between R10 000
and R15 000 a month. Now they also rely on
events to raise money. There is a two-week-
long annual book sale in July and on May 30,
they have an event called the Nearly New
Clothing Collection.
“We have done it for two years now and it is
‘There are different reasons why people
buy second hand. For young buyers it is
the trend, for others it is the cost’
Estelle de Villiers
very successful. We host the event at Zannas
for free and we collect all the good clothing
at the SPCA; the really upmarket designer
Besides affordability, she feels that people Centre, right next to GumTreez. “I have been stuff,” Estelle adds. They have made up to
are attracted to thrifting due to the peaceful selling there for the past six to seven months R20 000 in the past with the event, which
nature of the experience; customers and I really enjoy the social aspect of it,” Emsie starts at 4pm and ends around 9pm. Because
take their time browsing through items, says, with a beam of contentment. Business they meticulously go through the clothing,
sometimes spending an hour or two “window at the car boot sale has been picking up, select the best quality goods, wash and
shopping”. “I would like to urge people to because after each month, she gets to know steam it before the evening, the price for
support this kind of local business, rather her customers better. “This or that person a vintage blouse or designer dress will be
than finding something cheap at mass- always wants dresses,” she explains. “So now I slightly more than at Barking Bargains.
produced stores,” Emsie adds, seated on her know - I need to go look for dresses.” “There are different reasons why people
cool stoep at Whispering Grace. It peeves her “You bring your vehicle, you park it, pay buy second hand. For young buyers it is the
that you have to sew back buttons on newly R100 and you can sell whatever you like from trend - they can buy items like high-waisted
bought clothes merely a few months after your car,” Estelle de Villiers explains. Estelle pants and interesting bits and pieces,” Ingrid
purchase. “You can see the craft that went has been involved with the SPCA for about Murphy explains, while sipping coffee in
into some of the older clothing items I find; 13 years and acted as the chairman for a long front of her store in Kaapsehoop - Gold Dust
you can even notice it from how the label is period of that time. “I’ve been the fundraiser Trading. “For others it is the cost. There are a
sewn on,” she continues. “It isn’t cheap and it for the past three years. That’s what I’m lot of people who just buy basic clothes. And
doesn’t feel like plastic”. good at. We started looking for fresh ideas; more affluent ladies will look for the designer
Emsie also sells her goods at the White River something new in White River that hasn’t wear at a cheap price. A lot of possessions
SPCA car boot sale, the first Saturday of each happened before,” she elaborates. “And car come from people who have been overseas
month, from 8am to 12pm. The sale takes boot sales are really successful in the UK.” and bought good quality stuff - they just
place with the BFM at Casterbridge Lifestyle Some sellers also donate 10 to 15% of their don’t want it anymore,” she adds, before
36 Get It • Lowveld March 2019You can also read
