www.mylowveld.comEdition 6 - January 2015 FREE125 10 30

Top cop clamps

down on crime

Scale down on your

snake phobia

Tackle the new

school year head on

Soaring high with

Skyway Trails

Get your game on for 2015!

Coming from a small family who moved around a lot, Natasha Dos Santos grew up to be a humble ambassador for Mpumalanga. Winning the title Miss Mpumalanga 2014 took her to places that made her the lady she is today. Meeting Natasha is heartwarming. She is calm, caring and beautiful from

the inside out. A true lady!

2 SpotlightNews

Anni Jacobs

Coming from a small family that moved around a lot, Natasha Dos Santos grew up to be a humble ambassador for Mpumalanga. Winning the title Miss Mpumalanga 2014 took her to places that made her the lady she is today. Meeting Natasha is heartwarming. She is calm, caring and beautiful from the inside out. A true lady!

Can you tell us about your experience as Miss Mpumalanga?

It’s been a wonderful journey. I have enjoyed every moment of it and have learnt so much about life, preparing me for the next level in my career. But being Miss Mpumalanga is not about the fame, it’s about touching and inspiring people’s lives.

What duties does Miss Mpumalanga involve?

I’m an ambassador for this province and the Mpumalanga Gambling Board, and promote responsible gambling, making sure that the communities are well informed and protected from unregulated gambling, which could lead to severe consequences. I also work with the youth. My aim is to motivate and inspire, to teach them to grab opportunities in life, stay ambitious and dream big. I need to act as an example that dreams can come true.

Can you tell us more about your humanitarian work?

I represent the youth of Mpumalanga and I see it as a huge privilege. I never take the tasks of the youth lightly. The young people in this province look up to me, they know my background and how I reached my goals. It’s time for them to take a stand and reach for theirs.

What message do you want to give to young children?

Young children have to focus on their education. Focus on yourself and your future, don’t worry too much about what everyone else says, and the rest will follow.

How can our readers be good patriots?

Always be aware of what is going on around you and be willing to help and support your country. Be a good leader and become the change that you want to see in South Africa.

What are your New Year’s Resolutions?

My goal is to buy my own house and dip my toes into the corporate world.

What lies ahead for you in 2015?Work, school and more hustle.

There’s no waiting.What does it mean to be a true

lady?A true lady is a collected woman

who’s focused and confident. She knows what she wants out of life and turns heads the very moment she walks into a room. She is loving, kind, sweet, compassionate and has a beautiful soul.

Raise your glass to a prosperous New Year

Tips for being a ladyStay humble and calm at all timesFirst impressions lastsAlways be a stylish lady and look presentable, it says a lot about your characterRespect and love yourselfTreat people the way you want to be treatedMost importantly, be a believer in God.

In what she described as her most interesting photo shoot, MyLowveld took Miss Mpumalanga to the three huge metal animals which greet visitors as they drive into Mbombela on the N4 from Johannesburg. The animals were bought from an artist on the R40, and were initially used by the Mbombela Local Municipality when they attended the Sunday Tribune Garden Show in Pietermaritzburg.

“On returning we decided to use them as a decoration in the main foyer at the Civic Centre. We then moved them to the N4 as the

impact would be greater. This is just the beginning of the beautification of Mbombela, the general upgrading of the gardens and environment and the total clean-up of the city,” explained Mbombela Spokesman Bessie Pienaar.

Pienaar added that the statues will remind travellers of what can be encountered in the Lowveld.

“We just feel that these animals symbolise an important part of the Lowveld; when the public think about the Lowveld they think about the Kruger National Park and its animals,” she said.

Animal ambassadors

Natasha Dos Santos

3SpotlightNews

Dale Hes

Mbombela-based Melody Tomlinson has received national attention for her wonderful achievements in the spheres of business and life coaching.

The owner of Newleaf Inspirations and Performance Booster has done coaching for corporate giants such as SPAR, is a highly-regarded keynote speaker and has graced the pages of the Sunday Times, Beeld and several glossy magazines.

With her refreshing and insightful approach, she has made a huge difference to the lives of hundreds of clients over the past eight years, unlocking their full potential and helping them to achieve their goals.

The New Year is always a time to look for new challenges and set new targets, and there is no one better qualified to get you there than Melody.

Born in Johannes-burg, Melody completed her Bachelor of Social Science at the University of Cape Town, before starting up her own curio wholesale business.

“I have owned my own company since the age of 24 and have always been very passionate about business. I opened Newleaf Inspirations in 2006, at a time when there were no coaches in Nelspruit,” says Melody.

Melody explains that in the business environment, people struggle with issues such as self-confidence, performance and fear of authority.

“Business coaching is very structured and goal-oriented and you get very fast results. A coach helps you to go from where you are to where you want to be at an accelerated rate, and within two or three weeks you already see the changes in your life,” Melody says.

Usually working in blocks of six sessions over the course of three months, Melody’s goal is to change negative patterns of thinking and find answers you have inside yourself.

“It’s all about changing the way your brain works on a self-conscious level. Success is about self-mastery, and you can’t manage other people

if you can’t manage yourself. To break thought patterns that have formed over all our lives takes a lot of awareness, consciousness and effort. People need to constantly challenge themselves and push themselves out of their comfort zone, that’s the only way to grow,” she says.

Although the thought of visiting a business coach may draw a negative stigma that can be likened to going to a psychologist, Melody explains that this should not be the case.

“Instead of focusing on your past, how you become who you are and undoing what happened to you, coaching is very much focused on the future and how to get there - it’s very positive. People don’t understand that until they come here. Company heads sometimes send three of four guys, and then after they see their fellow employees change, they decide to

come themselves,” says Melody.

Over the years, virtually every Newleaf client has achieved a positive result from the course, whether it be a raise, promotion, or personal success such as

marriage. Melody

has some great tips for those looking to better

themselves in 2015.“I don’t think you should set New

Year’s resolutions unless you’re completely serious about them. Also, think about taking things up instead of giving them up. Instead of saying “I’m giving up coffee” you say “I’m taking up water”, so it’s a much more positive thing for your mind. If you think about giving up coffee you’ll just think about coffee all the time,” she suggests.

She adds that investing in yourself and your growth as a person is essential.

“People spend money on drinking, cars, clothes and entertainment, forgetting that the most important investment is you. I wish I could just give everyone a pill to make them realise the importance of growing yourself and working on reaching your full potential,” Melody says.

For more information on how to turn over your new leaf, contact Melody on 082 888 9676.

Turn over a new leaf this year with Melody Tomlinson

Business coaching is very structured and goal-oriented and you get very fast results. A coach helps you to go from where you are to where you want to be at an accelerated rate, and within two or three weeks you already see the changes in your life

Melody Tomlinson

4 Partner NewsNews

Candith Mashego

Sho’t right, sho’t left, after robot, bridge, circle and ‘dankie’ are some of the phrases you’ll hear when you make use of a taxi. Taxi taal, as they call it, differs from town to town or city to city.

In small towns like Hoedspruit, Acornhoek, Bushbuckridge and Thulamahashe, just to mention a few, it is easier to grasp the language within a few short days compared to the language used in the big cities. In cities there are a lot of places within and outside the CBD and taxis are often restricted from travelling beyond their area.

Each taxi has a zone and therefore taxi taal is important, and if you do not indicate correctly you might get lost! In small towns the common way to stop a taxi is to point your index finger downwards or in the direction the taxi is going. At hiking spots, it is even more important to give the correct sign as cars don’t stop to ask where you are going; you have to point correctly to get a driver to stop.

From Acornhoek to Hoedspruit a person will raise their hand with the palm slightly upwards and the hand curved westwards. If the driver is only travelling to a local area, they will point their index finger downwards and rotate it. There is a particular sign that is common in all cities, when people want to go into the city; all they have to do is point their index finger upwards, preferably the right hand should be used.

So the most important thing to learn in a new area is taxi taal, before even learning the local language! Kruger 2 Canyon

Saving Big Boy

Talk taxi taal

Siphiwe Nyathi

A Mbombela teenager is fast becoming a hip-hop sensation after successfully releasing four single tracks on the Internet.

Mozz Kidd, real name Hogan Antia (18), started composing tracks during his spare time at home three years ago.

“I was only 15 years old. It started as a hobby when I was at home during school holidays. My love for hip hop developed amazingly and I started to write my own lyrics and practice in my room,” he says.

The teenager hasn’t allowed his passion for music to disrupt his studies.

With the end of the exams last week Friday, Moz Kidd is confident that he will be studying towards an LLB degree at Wits University next year.

He started gaining fame after releasing two music videos that were warmly received through social media networks.

“I am happy with the journey so far because in every setback, there is an opportunity lying there. I haven’t released my album but my singles have been well-received,” said Moz Kidd. Moz Kidd’s work hasn’t gone unnoticed.

He has been nominated for the locally-based Children of Success Awards, to be held in Mbombela on December 12.

Children of Success is an NGO that helps teenagers achieve their goals instead of falling off the rails.

“One of the three categories (Moz Kidd has been nominated for) is called Celeb of the Year Award and looks at individuals who use social media to make a difference in the lives of their peers. It also focuses on certain characteristics such as emotional intelligence and care used with their social-media presence. We believe that Moz Kidd has done great work in such a field,” said awards founder Matsepo Nkosi. African Eye News Service

Moz Kidd amazes with hip-hop singles

For the people living on Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate (HWE), their beautiful resident male leopard which they’ve named Big Boy is part of their community. And so, the discovery that the owner of a farm adjacent to HWE has been given a hunting licence for a leopard, and that he is allegedly trying to lure Big Boy over to his farm, felt as if somebody was trying to kill their beloved pet.

The huge outcry quickly led to action. Pippa Moolman, who first reported the case on Facebook, has been a driving force in trying to save Big Boy. At the moment, an application is being submitted to Polokwane to have the licence revoked, and for this purpose a copy of the licence has been requested under the public access to information act. In the meantime, another line of approach is being followed by applying for a licence to collar the leopard. This would not guarantee the leopard’s safety,

as it is not illegal to kill a collared leopard, but ethical hunters respect the unwritten law not to do so. The collar has already been ordered, and the application, which has been submitted to LEED in Klaserie, should not take long to finalise.

Collaring a leopard is an expensive business, and this is where everybody can help. About R35 000 will be needed for the collar, the vet’s fees, and the first year’s service fees. An HWE Leopard Support Group facebook page has been set up, with banking details and all the information on how you can help.

Fred Berrange of the Leopard Conservation Project has come to the aid of Big Boy’s supporters, and is helping to make sure that everything is strictly done by the book, and with the collaring plan. He will also give practical assistance with capturing the leopard once the collar is ready and permission has been given to go ahead and monitor the leopard’s movements in collaboration with the HWE management.

Fred confirms that the leopard is an endangered species, listed in CITES Appendix I as ‘threatened with extinction’. How then can a licence be issued to kill an animal that has created no problems and not been found to kill livestock merely for sport? According to Fred, only 50 permits for leopards are issued on these grounds annually in South Africa, and three of them in this area. He is unsure of the background on how this permit came to be issued, and says that the law changes so often that it is difficult to keep track. For Fred, however, the most important issue here is still that this particular leopard belongs to Hoedspruit, and the people of Hoedspruit are prepared to protect it. - Kruger 2 Canyon

The Hoedspruit community is banding together to save their beloved big cat

5

Saluting a top cop

SpotlightNews

Dale Hes

An experienced legal eagle, dedicated cop and proud South African, Major General (Adv) Meshack Nogwanya was recently placed at the helm of Mpumalanga’s police force.

The Acting Provincial Commissioner has a revolutionary vision to make the Lowveld and province safer for its residents. MyLowveld had the privilege of sitting down with the major general to discuss his goal of lengthening the long arm of the law.

ML: Can you tell us a bit about your background?

MG: I grew up in the Eastern Cape, joined the police and graduated from the University of Transkei with my LLB. The legal division of the South African Police Service (SAPS) was only started after democracy, so I joined up and spent 10 years serving in Limpopo. I came to Mpumalanga and got a post here in 2012 as the head of legal services and learnt the ropes of upper management under mentorship of the previous commissioner. In November 2014, I was selected as

the acting commissioner. ML: What do you need to do to

keep the province safer?MG: Nothing that is criminally-

related will pass into or out of our borders. I don’t want even one car entering this province that has anything illegal related to it, so the police will ensure that this doesn’t happen. We are cracking down on liquor outlets; there will be harsh punishments for those who sell to underage people and don’t remove dangerous weapons from customers. We are also targeting criminal kingpins; we have a list of 30 people and we know them all. My slogan is that you investigate to arrest, you don’t arrest to investigate. Our streets and townships in Mbombela are becoming hovels of crime, but I can assure that people will notice that this will change with some much stronger and harsher visible policing. There must be a police car in the areas of concern, to let criminals know they cannot escape the arm of justice. For police officers who don’t obey the law, we will change your uniform from blue to orange.

ML: What style of leadership do

you bring to your position?MG: I don’t believe in just sitting in

this chair telling people what to do. I am a policeman, so I stand together with our men and women in blue. My strong legal background gives me a good understanding of the law, and I go out whenever possible to enforce this law. I am determined to keep bettering myself, when there is a police course or leadership course I believe will help me, I go and do it. All of these attributes have made me a complete cop.

ML: Do you hope to be permanen-tly appointed as provincial commissioner?

It is everyone’s aspiration to grow. When you join the police, you always want to move up

through the ranks. It is my wish that the government and national commissioner will give me the chance to serve South Africa and the people of Mpumalanga to the best of my ability.

ML: What is your message to assure the people of Mpumalanga that they are in capable hands?

MG: I am employed by the government to ensure that the people are safe, and there should be no worries about criminal elements. I can assure the people that they will see a strengthening of policing in this province. I believe strongly in the principles of ‘actions speak louder than words’, and our actions will do exactly this; there is no place for non-law-abiding citizens here.

Major General (Adv) Meshack Nogwanya

6

Beatrice Shongwe

Last year, 250 bright-eyed students became the first members of Mpumalanga’s first university, an institution which over the next few years aims to take its place as one of the best tertiary education establishments in Africa.

Board member Professor John Shongwe says that 2015 holds exciting prospects for the University of Mpumalanga (UMP), with a new programme in information and communication technology being added to the institution’s offerings.

Studying from the existing Lowveld Agricultural College and Siyabuswa

Teacher and Education Campus in 2014, students were hard at work on their bachelors of education and agriculture, and national diplomas in hospitality management and plant production.

“We have yet to see their results after the final exams, but we are very happy with how the first year went. We have received more than 1 000 applications for 2015. The selection process will soon take place and about 250 new students will be accepted,” said Shongwe.

Expansions to the university are underway, with three lecture halls, a staff office block, residences, a computer laboratory, science block

and library being built as part of what will be termed

Lower

Campus. The construction is expected to be

completed by the end of 2015, and in 2016 five new programmes will be introduced, including life sciences, engineering, business economics, communication and health.

“Around 750 more students will be enrolled in 2016. Adding more programmes year on year, while expanding our infrastructure, will see us reaching between 18 000 and 20 000 students by 2024, along with hundreds of staff members. We will have a whole new city of learning in our province,” said Shongwe.

Financially and academically deserving students will also qualify for bursaries.

“Applicants who wish to be considered for financial aid must indicate this by completing the suitable sections on the application forms,” Shongwe said.

Eventually, UMP will consist of three campuses, with Hill Campus being the heart around which the institution revolves. Orchard Campus will be earmarked for residential, sport and recreational use, and approximately R10 billion rand in total is expected to be spent on infrastructure over the next 10 years.

Shongwe said that the university would have a significant impact on economic and social development in the province.

“Students will be encouraged to stay in the province to study and then find jobs and contribute to the economy. Hundreds of jobs will be created through construction and the hiring of academic, administrative and support personnel,” he said.

South Africa’s Minister of Higher Education, Dr Blade Nzimande, said that the positive impact for UMP is expected to extend far beyond our borders.

“The seat of the UMP is at Mbombela campus, but with its vision of developing as an African university serving both our country and the continent, the university has the potential to become a centre for knowledge, progress and academic achievement far beyond its region,” Nzimande said.

UMP and the Sol Plaatje University are the first public universities to be established in South Africa since 1994.

“As such, they stand as symbols of the ambitions of our new society - democracy, inclusiveness, growth and opportunity for all,” concluded Nzimande.

All systems go for 2015 university yearEducationNews

Professor John Shongwe

7Community

Meet the force behind

Meet the teamLowveld

Our purpose when starting MyLowveld was to create a publication which appeals to each and every single person in the Lowveld.

The past six months have been a bit of a roller coaster ride, but with plenty of dedication, learning and late nights, we believe we are satisfying our ambition. Over six issues, we have just scratched the surface of what the Lowveld has to offer, and we can’t wait to discover more of her next year.

The MyLowveld team would like to express our deepest gratitude to our loyal readers, clients and partners

for their incredible support. Thank you for sharing your Lowveld with MyLowveld, and we wish you all the best for 2015.Interesting statistics about MyLowveld.comFrom the period 20 November to 10 December we had:• 13 200 people using our site• 23 000 page views• 73% returning visitors• 27% new visitors• Our Facebook page has grown to attract more than 16 600 likes.

Edition 2 - September 2014 FREE www.mylowveld.com

16764 Why ADT - Lowvelder_INJURED_FA.indd 1 7/14/14 4:14 PM

Reaching for Lowveld gold

As Spring approaches Lowvelders and animals alike welcome the idea of warm Summer nights, and cooling Summer rains

Photo by Lex Hes

3 8 21 19

A critical look at

spanking

Bongi puts the wow in

SA Idols

RC Planes light up

the skies

Check out what you can save and where, with coupons from local

bussiness’

Our dynamic team - from left: Raquel Lopes (general manager & layout and design), Adele du Toit (editor), Colleen Duvenhage (sales & marketing) Maxine Lambourn (sub-editor), Marlet van Wetten (events & social media), Beatrice Shongwe (journalist), Lizelle Hemphill (sales manager), Delmari van Vuuren (sales & marketing) and Vasti Lourens (admin assistant and public relations). Front: Roelof Loots (webmaster) & Dale Hes (journalist). Photo: Colyn Serfontein. www.imagelink.co.za

8 CommunityMystery

Dale Hes

Mystery surrounds the origin of hundreds of ancient rock engravings recently found close to Mashishing (Lydenburg), with some scientists saying they could be the work of aliens.

Wits University, together with local community members, are currently in the process of applying for the engravings to receive National Heritage status.

Since the first engraving was found in the Thaba Tholo Nature Reserve in 2010, various archaeologists have studied the strange artwork, which include circles, cups, drill holes, scratches, animals and countless puzzling patterns carved into rocks.

Is this the work of ancient aliens?

“More artwork is being discovered all the time, but it is still a complete mystery as to who actually made these engravings. This is unique because in the rest of South Africa scientists can say with relative certainty which tribes did artwork,” says Marius Brits, an archaeologist who has spent years studying the carvings.

It is believed that the engravings could be almost as old as some of the ancient San paintings which South Africa is famous for, but almost every scientist has their own theory.

“Some think they were made by ancient Hindu tribes, others believe they are connected to the Neolithic era of Europe, while some say they were made by the BaKoni tribe, who were in the area in the 1600s,” Brits says. Controversial South African scientist Michael Tellinger says that the engravings could be the work of an ancient alien civilisation, the

Annunaki, which he and a handful of other scientists believe visited the Earth some 200 000 years ago.

Tellinger’s book, African Temples of the Annunaki, provides what he claims is ‘archaeological proof’ of the existence of the Annunaki in South Africa.

“It points to a civilisation that lived at the southern tip of Africa, mining gold for more than 200 000 years, and then completely and suddenly vanished from the radar. We may be looking at the activities of the oldest civilisation on Earth,” says Tellinger.

Tellinger, who recently established a new political party known as the Ubuntu party, maintains that gaps in archaeological records indicate the existence of the Annunaki.

“The complex that links Nelspruit, Waterval Boven, Machadodorp, Carolina, Badplaas, Dullstroom and Lydenburg, has emerged as the largest and most mysterious ancient

city on Earth,” he says.However, Professor Alex

Schoeman, senior lecturer of archaeology at Wits University, says that the engravings are almost certainly the work of the BaKoni people.

“They correlate with the settlements of the BaKoni and their location in the mountains means that they were most likely used as initiation sites, as these needed to be located far away from civilisation,” Schoeman says.

Other theories are that the engravings were done by shamans, or by ancient people who were experiencing hallucinations after ingesting the potent local plant, Bushman’s Tea.

You can reach for your dreams and more this yearMpumi Mbethi

We’ve all made a list of things that we wish to do before we reach a certain age. The beginning of a new year always presents an opportunity to start afresh, and write down your New Year’s resolutions. Perhaps you’re discouraged by the fact that you have not accomplished half of the things you had aimed to achieve in the year 2014, but you can make up for this.

While some people say ‘the year has flown by’, others can’t wait for the year to end. Then there are those who are just going with the flow or even in limbo. The one thing we all have in common is that we can all be still and reflect. Take some time to re-group and strategise, plan and reassess your life. Then write down 10 things you want to achieve in the year 2015. Avoid a long list, but don’t make it too short either.

My list includes the following: • Going on a weekend getaway with

some friends

• Increasing my savings target• Running the Comrades

Marathon. These are only three out of my list

of 10. I will use these as examples of how to tick off all the items on your list, come end of the year.

Writing your list of New Year’s resolutions not only helps you to clarify your goals, but you are actually making decisions. This decision-making will give you a sense of direction and some control over your life. As Dr Henry Cloud says, “We all have a choice to either invest ourselves in living in ways that produce happiness, or continuing down a road that experience and science has shown will never fulfil us.”

You may have read those self-help books or heard on some TV talk show, about SMART goals.

Specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely. When making SMART goals this year, choose goals that fit your strengths and gifts, but don’t be afraid to stretch yourself.

Break your goals into doable chunks: from daily, weekly to monthly tasks. Increasing my savings will direct how I spend money daily. I may have to cut down some things on my monthly budget. This requires discipline and focus.

Structure your goals and find support. If your goal is to lose weight and you lack the self-discipline to commit to your goal, join the gym or a weight-loss club. Use a buddy system, someone to hold you accountable. My goal to run the Comrades Marathon will require a whole change of lifestyle. I’ve joined a road-runner’s club. They have experienced runners who have ran many Comrades races. Research shows that not only attainment of our goals, but also the pursuit brings joy along the way.

My New Year’s resolutions include long- and short-term goals. These goals structure my life and give me direction. They help me order my time and energy. Whether you think you can or you think you cannot, either way you are right. Mpumi Mbethi

9CommunityCharity

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Beatrice Shongwe

The Sitholumusa drop-in centre gives a lifeline to abandoned and orphaned children in Matsulu. Three years ago, five women started the centre in a mere shack after they saw the need

for a centre that can take care of helpless children in the township.

Today the centre accommodates about 150 kids between the ages of 3 and 17.

“The name Sitholumusa is derived

from the Bible, where it says the grace of God is sufficient for all of us. We also express the grace of God to these vulnerable kids by providing hope and love to them,” says Celcolo Nkosi, a teacher at the centre.

“Today we have three women who

volunteer to cook for us, one man who looks after our vegetable garden and two teachers who teach the kids life skills, help them with their homework and teach them sports like soccer, rugby, cricket, tennis and

basketball,” adds Celcolo. Most of the food used at the centre

is donated by a local church - the Lutheran Church of God - but Celcolo says that with the start of the 2015 school year, they are desperate for more donations to meet the needs of the growing demand.

“We try to visit each and every child at their house and we are shocked every time to see that the majority live alone since they don’t have parents or guardians to take care of them.”

“We see potential in these kids. Some of the older ones, who are finished school, are now studying at universities and following their dreams. Our vision for the future is that we can accommodate even more children who are from disadvantaged backgrounds. Even children who live on the street must know they can come here and be loved and supported,” concludes Celcolo.

If you would like to donate, contact Caroline Pereira on 071 201 8246. You can donate any of the following: rice, meat, maize meal, school uniforms, sports equipment, clothes, blankets, cooking oil and food parcels are also welcome.

Giving hope to the hopeless

The hard facts:• There are an estimated 4 million orphaned children living in South Africa• This translates to one fifth of our country’s children• This number is estimated to increase to 5.5 million by 2015• About 150 000 orphans live in child-headed households• An average of 3 000 children are abandoned by their parents every year• Adoptions decreased from 2 840 in 2004 to 1 699 in 2013.

Children at the Sitholumusa drop-in centre.

Sitholumusa volunteers.

10 Community

Dale Hes

For many people, the mere thought of a snake sends a chill down the spine. The Lowveld is an ideal breeding ground for snakes of all species, and the majority of us would have encountered at least one in our garden or house. Snakes do, however, play a vital role in our ecosystem, have been here millions of years before us and pose no threat if treated with respect. For the New Year, we suggest you face your fears by taking on a

snake handling course which will get you up close and personal with these misunderstood creatures.

Famously known as the foster father of Swartbek, a 3,5 metre long Black Mamba, Mashishing (Lydenburg) resident Neels Bothma has 50 years’ experience in handling snakes, and offers an illuminating course which deals with snake identification, handling and bite treatment.

Eccentric, knowledgeable and amazingly enthusiastic, Neels knows absolutely everything about most snake species, whether venomous or not, and travels across the country to share his passion for the reptiles.

“The main reaction when people account a snake in their house is to kill it. They can’t tell the difference between snakes, and cornering a venomous one puts them at risk of being bitten or spat in their eyes,” Neels says.

Neels owns more than 20 snakes of all species, and tailor makes his courses depending on which species are most prevalent in your area. If you have enough space and enough friends who are interested, he will travel right to your house or place of work to conduct his workshop.

“As our human population expands, we come more and more into contact

Conquer your fear of snakes

Anni Jacobs

Vast swathes of orderly planted forests dominate many areas of the Lowveld. Although the timber industry can contribute to the economy, it can also threaten the natural biodiversity.

GeaSphere is a civil society organisation started in Mbombela in 1999, which opposes the development of industrial timber plantations in South Africa, Mozambique and Swaziland.

The company facilitates campaigns which promote protection, management and restoration of ecosystems to maintain ecological integrity.

“Since the first timber plantations were established in South Africa in the late 19th century, the area covered has grown to cover millions of hectares. The biggest expansions of invasive timber took place in the

1960s and ‘70s to meet the increasing global demand for pulp and paper in developed countries, and more and more of our natural environment is being ruined,” says GeaSphere South Africa coordinator Philip Owen. According to Owen, the timber plantations have destroyed indigenous

vegetation (particularly threatened grasslands) and animals, and have caused massive water shortages in rural areas. “Rural communities have been deprived of their livelihood, animals lost their habitat and many indigenous plants are on the brink of extinction,” Owen explains.

GeaSphere took up the fight to stop the further spread of these

alien plants and to come up with alternative land-use models by doing comprehensive research and engaging with industry and government. It cooperates with a number of national and international environmental organisations including the World Rainforest Movement,

the Swedish Society for Nature Conservation and TimberWatch.

In the Mpumalanga area, the organisation is currently promoting the use of more environmentally-friendly chemical cellulose, and encouraging timber producers to be approved by the Forest Stewardship Council, which holds them to high environmental and social standards.

GeaSphere is always looking for

volunteers to help in their work. For more information, contact Philip Owen on 083 386 8907, or visit the website at www.geasphere.org

with snakes. The goal of the course is to keep both people and the snakes alive, and to change the huge negative perception people have of them.”

During the full-day course, Neels gives handy tips on how to identify snakes by colour, pattern, scales and shape. The handling, of course, is the most exciting part. With your pulse racing and heart thumping, you are given the chance to capture one of the snakes with the specialised equipment and feel it in your hands, an experience which is bound to give you a new-found respect for the reptiles.

Neels combines his paramedic background with his herpetological*

knowledge by outlining correct procedures to follow when a snake has bitten, and how to treat a bite before professional medical backup can arrive.

Snakes have negative connotations as aggressive, dangerous demons, but once you are equipped with the proper knowledge, equipment and techniques, coming across a snake becomes far less intimidating.

The full-day course costs R450 per person for each subject. For more information, contact Neels Bothma on 082 730 3047.

*Herpetology is the branch of zoology concerned with the study of amphibians and reptiles.

• There are 138 snake species in southern Africa. Only 13 are dangerous to humans• On average, there are around 10 fatal snake bites per year in South Africa. Annually, car accidents in the country claim at least 8 000 lives• Native to South America, the reticulated python is the world’s longest snake, measuring up to a whopping nine metres long• Snakes have forked tongues which act as their noses. They don’t have ears either, using vibrations on the ground to ‘hear’.

Did you know?

GeaSphere looks out for trees

How to fight for the cause• Take note of environmental impacts in your area• Join the discussion forums and raise your voice• Become an official GeaSphere supporter by pledging your time, experience and energy• Attend relevant meetings, workshops, conferences, demonstrations and other awareness-raising actions• Initiate discussion forums in your own area to discuss ‘earth matters’ among your friends and acquaintances• Initiate local action (eg river cleaning, invasive alien plant control, recycling).

Environment

Neels Bothma

11CommunityNews Community

Anni Jacobs

Any wedding is associated with a number of huge decisions that have to be made to make the day just perfect. One of these is choosing the right person to freeze the priceless memories through the eye of a lens, but searching for the most suitable photographer can be a daunting task.

So what can you look for when trying to find the perfect photographer? MyLowveld spoke to Nedine Schoeman, a professional wedding photographer based in

Nelspruit. Nedine has years of experience in the photography field and enjoys taking photographs that capture the magic moments that are impossible to reproduce.

“Next to choosing your husband is choosing your wedding photographer. I believe that your photos on your wedding should reflect everything that is special about the day; they should be able to tell a story to your future children and grandchildren,” Nedine says. Here are Nedine’s tips on how to choose your photographer

• Start your research as soon as you know your wedding date• Determine your budget• Decide how many photos you want• Research photographers in your area• Determine what form of pictures you want from your photographer, eg prints, DVD, canvas or a photo book• Make a list of photographers which fit your criteria for price and style• Make a list of your top-three photographers and get references• Make appointments and meet with each photographer face to face

• Decide if you relate with your photographer and his/her style• Do a pre-shoot before the wedding.

Nedine adds that when looking through a photographer’s portfolio, there are several elements to take note of that can guide you towards a decision.

When all the research is done, you can safely book your wedding photographer for the special date.

“And remember it’s the photogra-pher’s work to bring the best out of you.” Contact Nedine on 083 628 1993 or visit www.nedineschoeman.com

How to choose your wedding photographer

Emotion: Do the photos capture emotion and make you feel happy?

Lighting: If you talk to any photographer, they’ll tell you that lighting is 90% of what makes a photo good or bad.

Natural light.

Flash light.

How to analyse a photographer’s photosComposition: How did they set up the photo and does the photo tell a story? This photo is a set up in a Macadamia plantation farm and features calm cool colours.Tools: Ask your photographer what kind of camera he or she uses.

Colour: Is the colour the same as seen in real life?

Natural colours.

Photo manipulated with filters.

Space: Is there anything disturbing in the background.

Sharpness: Is the photo in focus?

12 Education Back-to-school

Beatrice Shongwe

As the calendar clicks over into 2015, its time to think about your kids going back to school, no matter how much they like or despise the idea. With a whirlwind of uniforms, stationery, text books and mental preparation needed, it can be a challenge to head back, or to prepare your little ones for their very first day of grade one.

With this in mind, MyLowveld spoke to Robert Nkosi, deputy principal of Tikhontele Secondary School in Matsulu, for some valuable tips on how to get ready for the new academic year, and how to prepare your child to be the best they can be.

ML: What are the essential things learners should prepare when going back to school?

Nkosi: Learners are expected to be at school a day or two before it opens on 14 January, so that they can receive all the provided textbooks and give time for their parents to cover them. There are things that we don’t get in our learners support material, including glue sticks, colouring pens, scissors and highlighters, which parents have to buy. Also pay attention to the correct uniforms and school bags.

ML: What mind-set do you expect from learners after the festive season?

Nkosi: As teachers we are expecting leaners who are refreshed and ready to start building their own future through hard work and commitment. It is our work to teach as much as it is their responsibility to study and pass. Be diligent and plan ahead, because

education is the key to success. ML: Some learners have to repeat

the year, what words of advice do you have for them?

Nkosi: To those who have failed, don’t give up hope; keep fighting for your future and the right to be counted. Failing does not mean stupidity, it means that you need to put more effort into what you are doing. Don’t get discouraged, if you have the will to succeed, you can achieve anything. Destiny can be delayed but it can never be denied.

ML: How can parents help their children make the most of school?

Nkosi: Firstly, make sure that they get to school every day so that they can use the right to a proper education. Ask them what they learnt, give them a helping hand where it is needed and be enthusiastic and interested in what they are learning. Try to be in contact with the teachers so you can find out what areas your child is

struggling with, and be there as a source of love and support.

ML: Any last words of advice? Nkosi: Don’t look down on yourself,

do the best you can do and always have belief. Waking up early in the morning with a bunch of books in

your bag is never easy, but you have to realise

that these are the most

important days of your

life. Education helps you to

discover your purpose in the

world, and the only obstacle that can

stand in your way is you.

Beat the back-to-school blues

Robert Nkosi, deputy principal of Tikhontele Secondary School.

13Community News

Dale Hes

Litter is becoming an increasingly visible eyesore around Mbombela, and our capital is in dire need of a clean-up. But on visiting the Mataffin Precinct around Mbombela Stadium, you will notice that these streets are spotlessly clean, neat and well-maintained. This is largely thanks to the work of Basisa, a small group of men and women who proudly ensure that their little piece of the city remains presentable.

Basisa – meaning ‘clean up’ in Tsonga - was launched by Halls Properties as an enterprise development initiative in 2012, with a handful of unpaid volunteers who made it their goal to keep the road verges, informal trading stores, part of the P166 and the grounds around the stadium neat and litter free.

The cooperative started with no knowledge of business or management skills, but has, with the mentorship of Halls, the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA), Servest and Rudamans, become a professionally-run small business with 11 paid employees.

The business now runs independently and has landed several

contracts, allowing it to expand its work to other areas of the city, and continues to uplift the previously-unemployed youth of Mbombela.

A new ride-on mower adds to their ‘fleet’, which now includes a bakkie, weed cutters, uniforms and other gardening equipment.

Halls, who had contracted Basisa for work ever since its establishment, recently renewed their contract for another 12 months, reaffirming their commitment to business mentorship and enablement. The contract will

allow Basisa to maintain the major roads into Mbombela, including Samora Machel Drive and the R37 from Sabie.

“The team is growing and we are delighted by the confidence with which the employees carry out their work. It’s a great achievement that after support and mentorship they have gained invaluable business skills and are putting them, successfully, to the test. Halls is proud to be associated with these young men and women and will continue to support

them in everything they do as they continue to grow,” said Konzaphi Mdaka from Halls.

Daphne Mona, a managing member at Basisa, said she was delighted at the way the organisation had grown.

“We are very happy that we are now a business with the skills needed to succeed. Our employees love their work and probably wouldn’t have found a job without Basisa,” said Mona.

Mona added that for the New Year, the Basisa team is looking for more contracts to expand their scope of work.

“Any business that needs us for gardening and cleaning services can be assured that we do a very professional job. We would like to thank Halls Properties and the National Youth Development Agency especially, for their help with training and admin work. Without them we wouldn’t be where we are,” said Mona. Having been built from the ground up and taking on the task of keeping Mbombela clean, Basisa can truly be regarded as one of the Lowveld’s local heroes.

For more information, contact Halls Properties on 013 753 5700 or Daphne Mona on 076 849 7206.

Basisa keeping our beautiful Mbombela clean

The dedicated Basisa team taking on the task of cleaning up Mbombela. Photo: Tracy Brooks

Robin J jazzing up Radio Laeveld

Adele du Toit

Robin Jansma has been appointed as the new station manager of 100.5FM (Radio Laeveld). MyLowveld caught up with Jansma, before he gets too busy.

“The previous manager, Gert Booysen saw the station through good times and sometimes ‘difficult’ times, always being supportive and a good leader. He created a legacy for the station which I want to build on. The baby was born and I am now taking over in its teenage years, which is a challenge in any household. However, I’m very excited about the future plans to develop the station to its full potential,” said Jansma.

“We want to continue evolving the organisation into a dynamic and innovative community radio station catering for a wider audience. The radio station belongs to

the listeners and we serve by providing news, information and entertainment that is suitable for the whole family,” said Jansma.

He announced that the revision to the station’s license to cater for an English audience, as well as an upgrade to a stronger broadcast signal, was recently approved by ICASA.

“100.5FM has an important role to play in the community and we are looking forward to joining hands with businesses, schools, churches, sport clubs and the community at large,” said Jansma.

Jansma has been part of the 100.5FM team for more than 10 years as presenter and programme manager. He also has experience in commercial radio and television. Jansma is a family man and although not born in the Lowveld, feels as if he has lived here all his life.

Jansma announced that the revision to the station’s license to cater for an English audience has recently been approved.

Robin Jansma taking the reins at Radio Laeveld.

14

Manda Gomes is well known for her modelling and charity work worldwide. She started her charity work when she was crowned Mrs Lowveld in 2007. Over the years she has received two United States International Charity awards – Spirit of Excellence 2009 and Spirit of Hope 2010. In 2013 she won Mrs World Universal and in 2011, Mrs Africa. Manda is the founder of Ramps-to-Runway, where she specialises in Personal and Group-coaching, as this is where she has found her perfection. Visit her website, www.ramps-to-runway.com

Fashion

Kicking off 2015 in style

Sibanda NokwandaSakelisiwe NkosiNangi ShongweWhat’s nice about this outfit is that she can match any cutex, shoes, and earrings with it. For example she is wearing a pink headband and has green toe nails and purple finger nails and it works! She really went to a lot of trouble with this outfit. Normally one should adhere to the rule of matching three colours in order not to be too extravagant. But she makes this outfit very classy. It is good that she did not accessorise too much and with this dress one can get away with almost wearing no accessories because of the variety of colours. The dress suits her vibrant personality and makes her look very funky. Her dazzling personality shines through and it matches her figure perfectly.

Celukuthula NkosiPrecious KhozaThis lady has a real African feeling with the dress she is wearing. The leather handbag works perfectly with the outfit and the dress suits her figure. Her hair is braided and adds to the African sense of fashion. Her light make-up makes her look very neutral. Not everyone can pull off a look like this but she is definitely staying true to her roots and she is not afraid to show it. The jewellery she is wearing compliments the dress but I would rather have opted for leather sandals than the bedazzled sandals. This would have matched her leather handbag. To give the dress a different look, she can wear either a leather, red or green belt around her middle and maybe change the leather handbag to a black one. For an evening on the town, she can simply wear a red or black scarf. She really looks like she means business in that dress.

I especially like this outfit since I am a plain Jane myself. It’s perfect to go to the mall or for a night on the town. I really like the gold jewellery and the gold on the shoes. The black dress makes her look slimmer and one can tell she really knows how to dress for her figure. Her long hair makes the outfit look really funky. I would maybe have opted for a white or gold or black sandal rather than the pink. I feel that the pink is drawing attention away from her beautiful figure. Her handbag really adds that touch of class to the outfit.

I really love her outfit, it takes me back to 1996 - 1998 when this kind of style was high fashion. To this day, I still love Tangerines. The boots really finish the outfit and make her look young and vibrant. Her hairstyle really works with the outfit and she makes her look effortless chic and natural. She comes across as very striking in this outfit and people will want to stop to look at her. The Tangerine works well with her figure and the coloured handbag and matching nails look amazing and very colourful. The great thing about denim is that it will always be in style and if worn correctly, will see you through a day at the office or a night out on the town.

I really admire this lady’s style. The dress on its own may have been a bit dull but add a denim jacket to it and it looks professional. The necklace works well with the dress seeing as it matches and her white pumps really add that extra bit, seeing as they match her white belt, the white watch and the string of pearls around her arm. This lady really went through a lot of trouble to look this stylish. The great thing about the dress is that it can be worn over your bathing suit or add a black jacket for a night on the town.

Style

15Wellbeing

Adele du Toit

Have you ever heard of an ear candle? It is a 20cm cone of rolled up wax paper that is used to remove ear wax.

According to the Health Psychology website, ear candles or coning is an alternative therapy treatment which dates back to the year 2 500 BC.

Ancient cultures including the Egyptians, Essences, Mayans, Tibetans, Chinese, Indians and the Orient have shown evidence of participating in this ancient practice. It was a procedure offered only to great warriors, spiritual leaders, or those at the top of the social hierarchy, it states on the website.

Some cultures considered ear wax candling to be not only a cleansing of the body but a spiritual cleansing of the mind and soul as well.

“Many times, this procedure is done in a meditative and calm state. It is still used today all over the world. In fact, in Germany, medical students have to learn about ear candling as a part of their studies,” reads the website.

Who should use them Michael Seidman, director of otologic/neurotologic surgery at the Henry Ford Medical Centre in Detroit said for 90%

of people, ear wax comes out on its own, but individuals with very small or especially curvy ear canals may need help clearing their ears.

“Too much ear wax can block sound or trap moisture in the ear, which can lead to infection. Some of my clients have found that ear candles help, but others still need to visit a doctor to have wax removed. Hard wax is eliminated with special tools at a doctor’s office; ear candles cannot remove hard wax,” said Seidman on the website, www.naturalhealthmag.com

How does it work?If you buy ear candles, directions

will be provided. In a nutshell, lay on your side and stick the candle upright in your ear. Ask a partner to help you to light the candle. Allow to burn until about 4-5cm from your ear, remove from ear and extinguish. Handle with care

There is a lot of criticism around the effectiveness of the ear candle. If you are unsure, consult with your local physician. Ear candles are available at local pharmacies.

*MyLowveld cannot be held responsible for any damages, loss, costs or expenses arising from the use of an ear candle.

Let’s hear it for candles

Dale Hes

The summer holidays are a time of soaking up the sun, but, if you haven’t covered up properly, a fun-filled day under its rays comes attached with a not-so-pleasant sunburn.

If you’re red-faced and feeling the sting, try these remedies to cool off.

- Take an oatmeal bath: take a bath filled with cool water to which you’ve added oatmeal such as Jungle Oats.

- Go green: Green tea contains ingredients that reduce UV damage and inflammation. Brew a pot of tea and let it cool down completely, before soaking a clean cloth in the tea. Apply the cloth to the sunburnt areas.

- Try some vinegar: Although it may sound painful, vinegar actually soothes sunburn

pain, inflammation and itching. Try soaking some paper towels and leaving them on the skin until dry (repeating if needed), or add two cups of vinegar to a cool bath.

- Add some baking soda: mix baking soda and vinegar together to make a thick paste and spread it over the sunburn before you go to bed.

- Minty freshness: use the cooling properties of peppermint by making peppermint tea or mixing peppermint oil with lukewarm water, before applying to the skin.

- Rely on the goodness of veggies: rub slices of cucumber or potato on the affected area.

Hopefully these suggestions will relieve you of your pain, but remember to take the necessary precautions when next you head out into the sun, it could save your life.

Soothing solutions to cool the summer sunburn

Health

16 Law

Adele du Toit

Being a South African citizen gives one the protection of the country’s law, but how much do you actually know about your rights and how to protect them?

We have picked out a list of top 15 laws that every South African should know.

1. EqualityYou cannot be discriminated against

but affirmative action and fair discrimination are allowed. Everyone is equal before the law and may not be discriminated against.

2. Freedom and security You cannot be detained without

trial, tortured or punished unfairly. Domestic violence is not allowed. You may not be physically detained without trial or abused in any way.

3. PrivacyYou cannot be searched or have

your home or possessions searched. Your right to privacy includes your body, home and possessions.

4. Freedom of religion, belief and opinion

You can believe and think whatever you want and can follow the religion of your choice. You have the right to think, believe and worship however you may choose.

5. Freedom of expressionAll people (including the press)

can say whatever they want. You have the right to say, read and study whatever you choose but hate speech is not allowed.

6. Assembly, demonstration, picket and petition

You can hold a demonstration, picket and present a petition but you must do this peacefully. You have the right to peacefully assemble, demonstrate and protest.

7. Freedom of associationYou can associate with whomever

you want to. You have the right to

associate with anyone. 8. Freedom of movement and

residenceYou can go and live anywhere in

the Republic of South Africa. You have the right to enter and leave the Republic at will.

9. Labour relationsYou may join trade unions and go

on strike. Every worker and employer has the right to organise and negotiate to further their aims.

10. Healthcare, food, water and social security

The government must make sure you have access to food and water,

health care and social security. You have the right to health care, adequate food and water and social

security.11. ChildrenChildren under the age of 18 have

special rights, like the right not to be abused. Every child has the right to a name, nationality and protection from abuse and exploitation.

12. EducationYou have the right to basic

education, including adult basic education, in your own language (if this is possible). You have the right to a basic education in the official language of your choice.

13. Language and cultureYou can use the language you want

to, and follow the culture that you choose. You have the right to use the language of your choice and practise your own culture.

14. Access to informationYou have the right to any

information which the government has. You may access any information held by the state for the protection of your rights.

15. Arrested, detained and accused persons

This right protects people who are arrested, imprisoned or accused. When arrested, you have the right to remain silent, to be brought before a court within 48 hours and the right to legal representation.

*Information sourced from the Department of Justice website (www.justice.gov.za)

Top 15 South African laws that you should know

Rights

17Coupon DealsCoupons

18 Coupon DealsCoupons

19

It is an unbridled attack: on your eyes, on your heart, on that which you normally expect from Mercedes-Benz. The A – Class is the car for a new era and a new generation. A car that wants it all and makes no compromises. A design that is the spitting image of the future. Here it is. Unadulterated agility and efficient with it. Of course. Comfort and technology in a breathtaking symbiosis. Climb

on in and experience it for yourself. Equipment and appointments options which are geared to your personality and not vice versa. Just let yourself be guided by your style. And when you are then finally sitting in it and drive the first of many, many exciting metres, you will feel it in the new A – Class – the pulse of a new generation.

Your head, your style, your personality, your A – Class. Three possible design

and equipment lines, three confident statements: dynamic elegance, urbane style or sporty through and through with the AMG Line. Even more “Me” with the three optional Design packages: an extravagant exterior in the Night package, high-quality details in the Exclusive package, sporty presence in the AMG Exclusive package. The A – Class: a M e r c e d e s - B e n z where its genres are concerned. But it clearly takes after you.

The A – Class is a true endurance athlete.

The economical consumption from 3.6 litres over 100 kilometres takes you further than you think. Through efficient engines with direct injection and turbo charging. And the standard-specification ECO start/stop function with also helps to put the brakes on consumption at red traffic lights. The very essence of BlueEFFICIENCY.

Sit at the wheel and steer the whole world. A full 17.8 cm display: your window to the web of possibilities.

Surf on the browser, search with Google®, share on Facebook®, and be there every bit of the way. And you won’t be alone in any situation in the real world, either: the electric parking brake, Active Parking Assist, reversing camera and HOLD function support your motoring pleasure. Technology that makes it easier to be human.

The new A – Class offers you more

Mercedes-Benz A-Class - The pulse of a new generation

Every refuelling stop is something special, good for progress and bank balance alike

“”

perception and less risk with 11 assistance systems. Part of the standard specification in the A – Class: the radar-based COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST safety system, the ATTENTION ASSIST system and Hill-Start Assist. Even more

safety on request: the DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control and the PRE-SAFE® system. Technologies which can ensure that dangers keep their distance from you.

With all these great benefits and exciting advancements the only thing left for you to do is come into Union Motors. Book your test drive today. Call 087 231 1284

PromotionCar

20 Finance Budget

Dale Hes

The festive season is undoubtedly the most expensive time of the year. After a splurging spree of holidays, food, gifts and gadgets, your bank account could well be left teetering ominously in the red, and the prospect of facing 2015 becomes a gloomy one.

Annalisa Cloete, a financial planner from WL Financial Services in Mbombela, says that a lack of planning or budgeting breaks the bank over Christmas, leaving meagre resources left over for January.

“People don’t budget and before they know it they’ve overspent. You need to know how much you have available to spend on gifts and holidays, and then stick to your plan,” Annalisa says.

Saving, and thinking ahead, are the best financial decisions you can make as you head into January.

“Saving is crucial in being able to live debt free. Start to plan now for next Christmas and save on a monthly basis to enable you to do what you wish for Christmas 2015,” says Annalisa.

Creating easy access to bank funds can be tempting, and most people are likely to spend the money the moment it goes in the pocket.

Be sure, therefore, to transfer amounts earmarked for saving into a designated account that is not easily accessed.

The same culture of saving applies to paying back debts, which hover over many people’s heads like dark clouds. Making new debt, no matter how small, is a huge no-no.

“Reduce your debt to as low as possible. Start paying off the small

accounts with the highest interest rate and work them off during the year. When you have paid off one debt use the money you have spent on that debt and pay the extra off on the next one you want to cover,” Annalisa suggests.

Once you’re in the clear, the best advice that Annalisa can give is to stay out of debt altogether.

“Do not make new debt for everyday

things. Save yourself an emergency fund and use that money to buy what you need to. Keep inflation in mind too. Although it may not make a big difference in one year, over time it has a greater influence,” she says.

In addition, looking closely at all your assets and liabilities helps create a clear picture of where you are prioritising your current spending and saving and where you need to make changes in your habits. Take a few minutes to set new savings goals for 2015, taking into account important factors such as your retirement fund, mortgage and children’s education.

“You need to have a roadmap to know where you want to be and how you are going to get there. You cannot reach your destination if you don’t have a road map or GPS,” Annalisa points out.

Annalisa also advises that you educate yourself on everything related to personal finance.

“Read books and visit financial websites.

A very informative book that I would recommend is The 4 Laws of Financial Prosperity by Blaine Harris & Charles Coonradt. But if you need help with budgeting the best place to go is a certified financial planner,” she concludes.

Recovering from the festive splurge

21Go green

Anni Jacobs

Ask yourselves, how much does it cost to buy tomatoes, lettuce and cucumber in a shop these days?

For this reason Henri and Lorna van Niekerk, owners of Funky Monkeys Backpackers and Safaris in Mbombela, started with hydroponics* and are reaping the rewards.

After 10 years of being a game ranger, Henri settled in the Lowveld, and joined his wife in running the backpackers.

Today he boasts a sustainable livelihood and sells his hydroponic lettuce to local supermarkets.

“I didn’t want to work in the tourism industry anymore, I got tired of working 16 hours a day for 44 days in a row,” says Henri.

The project was started in November 2013, but because of heavy rainfall, they had to start all over in February 2014.

“My wife and I did research on the Internet and started with a few gutters. We experimented with hydroponics and we had our first harvest.”

Walking into the net-covered garden, one can’t help but admire the A-frame lettuce garden.

The four A-frames with six pipes (each 9m) can each hold 51 cups to grow lettuce.

“Each cup has rocks in. The water level will be just high enough for the

plants’ roots. The plant itself doesn’t get wet otherwise it will rot,” Henri explains.

He says that each pipe has its own tap and water is pumped out of the tank through the tap into the pipes and circulated, ensuring every plant gets watered.

“Water fills the pipes half way. Even when the system shuts off, there

will be one third water left in the pipes. Therefore the roots will never be without water and can’t dry out when there are electrical problems.”

He prides himself in the fact that no water is wasted. Even rain water is recycled and stored in tanks. The crops require 500 litres of water every two weeks.

“When plants are off the ground they are less

susceptible to pests and the space is utilised more economically by having A-frames. Nets prevent butterflies and moths laying eggs on the plants. Your farming environment becomes more manageable.”

According to Henri the advantages of having a hydroponic A-frame lettuce garden are its cost effectiveness, economical use of space and the use of recycled water.

“It is actually little work compared to commercial farming.”

*HydroponicsThe process of growing plants in

sand, gravel or liquid, with added nutrients, but without soil.

Henri’s hydroponics the best in town

Environment

Henri van Niekerk in his hydroponic garden.

22 MusicEntertainment

Like MyLowveld on Facebook for breaking news and more

Beatrice Shongwe

Mandisa Phangisa, known as Mandy in the small community of Matsulu outside Mbombela, is a local hip-hop hero set for great things. And he is only 18!

Mandy is an extremely talented rapper and song writer. MyLowveld interviewed this promising youngster, getting to know him and what lies on the road ahead.

What kind of music are you into?I’m doing hip hop and a little mix

of RnB, but my music has more of a Western influence as I love rap songs with flowing lyrics.

Who is your role model?Ntokozo Mdluli, popularly known

by his stage name, KO. He is a South African rapper who rose to prominence with the group Teargas.

What inspired you to pursue a career in music?

I’ve always known that music is my birth gift! I really love it and I’m passionate about it, and look forward to realising my childhood dream.

How many albums do you have at the moment?

I don’t really have an album at the moment, I have a few tracks on CDs that people can copy and listen to, you can also find my tracks on kasiMp3.co.za

How many local producers and artists are you currently working with?

I’m working with five people at the moment but I’m on my own since I write my own songs, we only work together when there’s a track to mix.

What are the challenges you come across as a young artist?

The only big challenge I come across is money.

Sometimes people invite me to perform and showcase my musical talent and it gets very difficult for me to travel outside of Matsulu, as I’m still at school and I don’t make enough money for all the expenses.

Where do you enjoy performing?I perform almost anywhere, as I

still want to grow and gain more confidence on stage. In order to get exposure I perform in local clubs, parks, parties and bars.

What age group does your music appeal to?

I cannot say exactly, it appeals to anyone with a love for music, regardless of age or gender.

What kind of reaction do you get from people when you perform?

People really love my music, I feel the crowd when I’m on stage and their response is always very positive. I feel like I’m on top of the hip-hop game and that I’m a real star! It’s a very good feeling when people are giving me hope and encouraging me to push harder until my day arrives.

When did you start your music career?

I started making my own music in 2010 and I fell in love with it immediately!

Where do you see yourself in the coming years?

Working with the big guns in the industry and Cashtime Records giving me a contract. I want to be their best! I really have a good feeling about my

dream and I will not lose hope no matter how

difficult it gets.How do you balance your

school work with your music?I focus more

on my studies throughout the year

as we all know education is the key to success. During

the holidays I focus on my music, doing gigs and

local events, so it’s not that easy, but I manage as both school and music are essential in building my future.What can you say about

other young people who want to pursue a career in music?

If they are passionate about it and want to grow, they can

join our group and be part of something big. It’s not easy to start

from scratch so if they have the talent and know about doing this, why not?

Matsulu youngster dreams big

Marlet van Wetten

There is a new name on the lips of blues rock listeners; Jonathan Peyper. A Lowvelder with a kind and gentle soul, and as deep as the ocean itself, this 24 year old has made waves with his debut self-titled album.

I’ve been lucky to know Jonathan since his school days and see him grow to the musician he is. I caught up with him just before he left for his Cape acoustic tour to talk about playing at Oppikoppi, international charts and music.

My Lowveld (ML): It’s nice to see you again in Nelspruit. You are heading for the Cape this December for a tour.

Jonathan Peyper (JP): Thanks a lot; it’s nice to be back home. Yes, I’m doing an acoustic tour of the Cape from December 10 – 17. I’m very excited! I’m opening for Fearless Leader of the USA and will play with Dan (Patlansky) and Francois (van Coke) as well.

ML: You were recently nominated in the Blues Rock Review for the Top 20 albums of 2014. Tell us a little more about it?

JP: Well I was so surprised when I saw the nomination. The website, Blues Rock Review is a USA-based blues music website. They asked the public to vote for their favourite artists on the list. Dan Patlansky and I were the only two South

Africans on it.ML: And what is the verdict?JP: (Laughs) I didn’t make the Top

20 for this year but Dan Patlansky was voted the number one blues rock album of the year. I’m just grateful to friends and family who voted for me. It was really a big surprise.

ML: You moved to Pretoria a few years ago. But many musicians are moving to Cape Town. Which do you prefer?

JP: Pretoria definitely. Cape Town fans like festivals where Pretoria fans like gigs. I’m very happy in Pretoria, you should make music where you are established.

ML: What have been your 2014 highlights?

JP: The launch of the album is first. Second to play with Rauol Roux, Dan and Albert Frost at Oppikoppi and thirdly to attend and play at my first Oppikoppi. The Top 20 Blues Rock Review nomination, the upcoming tour to the Cape and playing at Innibos.

ML: What can we expect from you in 2015?

JP: Hopefully to bring out two more videos and to tour with the full band and play at every single music festival possible.

You can buy Jonathan’s album at Stoep for R100 or via iTunes South Africa. You can follow him on Facebook and on Soundcloud.com Photo by Louise Pieterse

Blues rock just got a whole new groove

23Old SchoolEntertainment

Marlet van Wetten

LPs, Seven Singles, plate, vinyls – they have made a comeback. If you were born before 1990 you probably grew up with vinyl records in the house. At a time in South Africa vinyls were all you could get (only certain ones of course). But weekend music came from the turntable and sound system and that was replaced by the cassette deck in the ‘80s and the CD in the ‘90s. Although more digital formats of music remain the most popular, vinyls have returned to our musical lives.

But before you rush out and buy a new turntable, do a little research. The fancy looking “vintage” turntables, those are the turntables you should stay away from. Although it looks cool and has features like memory card, USB, DVD and more built into it, you are going to hate yourself for buying it. The older versions of turntables were at their height of popularity in the mid to late ‘80s. If you are going to invest in one, just make sure you can still find the parts for it. Some of the newer turntables have needles that only last a couple of months. If the turntable is too cheap the sound quality goes down, rather save a bit more money and buy a good quality turntable. The best buy is the DJ turntable. They can play old and new vinyls, they have better quality

sound and they are not overpriced, with the same features as newer ones. Make sure your turntable has a

wide range of compatibility with vinyls as some only play with iTunes.

Old turntables can play new vinyls and vice versa. If you browse the international market online always be sure that you can stock up in parts either from the online world or locally. Buying a turntable that breaks becomes a nightmare if you cannot find spare parts for it. If you are buying second hand, first see that it works before you pay over your hard earned money. Have a look at the turn

flatbed before you make a purchase, it shouldn’t wobble at all.

Now is the time you should invest in a good dust cloth. Dust is your enemy when it comes to vinyl records. When buying old and new vinyls make sure that dust does not get into the package. A soft cloth will pick up

almost all the dust

particles, its good practice

to wipe down your vinyl before and after play. The popping sound you hear when playing vinyl is dust; it can cause the needle to skip and cause damage to your record. When buying second-hand vinyls look for scratches and deep marks as this will influence the sound quality.

Did you know that in the ‘70s the song “I wonder” by Rodriguez was

banned from being played on air? The song was scratched out on the vinyl itself. ***offpolisiekar became the first Afrikaans rock band to re-release their first album “As jy met vuur speel sal jy brand” on vinyl. Vinyls are still and always will be collectable

and if you want to sell your older albums you’ll get between R20-R80

for each of them. Collectables (in good quality) can go for up to R300.

Vinyl is the real deal. I’ve always felt like, until you buy the vinyl record, you don’t really own the album. And it’s not just me or a little pet thing or some kind of retro romantic thing from the past. It is still alive. - Jack White.

The return of the vinyl

• LP - Long

Playing• SP - Single

• EP - Extended play or 12” single• RPM - Revolutions per Minute• Thomas Edison invented the

phonograph (the great grandfather of turntables) in 1877

• Jack White holds the record for most vinyls sold in 2004 – 40 000 copies of his album

“Lazaretto”

Dale Hes

Colleen Duvenhage is MyLowveld’s record fundi, and has a collection of 8 000 Long Plays (LPs) and 2 000 Seven Singles stacked up in her house. Her hobby began some 40 years ago, when her father bought her Sparky’s Magic Piano (a record first released in 1947) to get his daughter more interested in piano lessons. The battered old record is now one of Colleen’s most priceless possessions, and kick-started her interest in music.

“There is something special about a vinyl record that you can’t quite put your finger on, but they have a character and nostalgia that is gone today. It captures a piece of history, the sound is more authentic and the look and feel is unique,” says Colleen.

About 12 years ago Colleen and her

husband Gideon seriously began to expand her collection, unearthing musical gems in antique shops, flea markets, swop shops and auctions.

“We even bought out Radio Pretoria’s entire record collection when the station converted them to Compact Discs. There must have been about 3 000 records,” she adds.

Walking into the room where the records are kept is like entering a library of music, capturing the works of some of the greatest musicians of all time. It took about six months for Colleen to have this biblical collection carefully categorised alphabetically and by genre, and there are still dozens more vinyls which have yet to be organised.

“Although some may be worth more than others financially, they are all of equal value personally,” Colleen says.

Although there is no chance of

Colleen beating the current record for the biggest collection of vinyl records, which currently stands at more than 3 million, she will continue collecting for the rest of her life.

“As long as there are vinyl records around, I will keep collecting. It’s my passion, and there’s always huge excitement when I find a record to add to my collection,” Colleen says.

Make some noise for our vinyl junkie

Colleen’s record collection began with Sparky’s Magic Piano when she was five years old.

24 CalendarEntertainment

School Holiday Adventure / Survivor Camp 5-9 January 2015Mbombela This camp is open to children between the ages of 11 - 13 and teaches them the skills to survive in the bush. It includes making a fire, preparing food, navigating and improvising. It is a great activity to keep the children busy during December holidays. More details: 082 411 7132 or johan@eventsxtreme.co.za

Mpumalanga Care Clown Training21-28 January 2015

White River 17:30 Train as a Care Clown, then you too can visit children at local hospitals & homes and bring joy and emotional care to them. Care Clown Training inclusive for all 3 evenings in January costs R800p/p for adults and R400p/p for scholars. To apply please email upliftmentprogramme@gmail.com

Laurika Rauch 30 January 2015Emnotweni Casino 19:00

Certainly one of the best know Afrikaans female singers, Laurika Rauch will be playing at the Emnotweni Casino. Her hits include “Blouberg se strand” and “Stuur groete aan Mannetjies Roux”. Tickets are R120 and available at Computicket.

Maroela Makitie 30-31 January 2015Bergvlam HoërskoolFriday 17:00, Saturday 08:00The first Lowveld festival of 2015. Come and enjoy some home-made Maroela Jam, with live music by Blackbyrd, NRG, Bobby Van Jaarsveld, Evert Swart, Juanita Du Plessis, Jak De Priester, In Unity We Drum, Arno, Leandri Small, Vasti and many more. Info: MB Promark: 013 741 4956, www.maroelamakiti.co.za

My January Events Send us your events! events@mylowveld.com My Sudoku

25RecipeCuisine

Here is the recipe for the mouth-watering chicken dish we cooked up on the day.

Ingredients: - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or a whole chicken -2 tbsp mozzarella cheese -A handful of fresh spinach -1 clove of garlic -salt and pepper to taste -1/4 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved -1/2 cup olive oil

-1/2 cup balsamic vinegar-Handful of fresh bay leaves -250ml fresh cream -1 pack streaky bacon Basting sauce:½ olive oil1 egg, beaten½ cup balsamic vinegarsalt and pepper

Method: Flatten chicken on carving board. Soak chicken in mixture of olive oil,

balsamic vinegar and bay leaves. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Let it soak for about 15 minutes. Braai for about one hour. Remember to baste the chicken with the basting sauce every 15 minutes while on the braai.

On stove top, cook spinach in a ¼ cup of water. Add

fresh cream and cook until spinach is creamy.

Fry streaky bacon in a separate pan until crispy.

Melt mozzarella cheese in a pan until stringy.

When chicken is done, serve on a bed of couscous. Top it off with the creamy spinach and bacon. For the

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MyLowveld spinach-stuffed chickenMyLowveld competed in the Heidel Eggs Cook Off competition held on November 27 and banded together to cook up a storm. We were joined by the Steval Pumas rugby team and other local businesses for a fun but frenetic day at the Mbombela Stadium. MyLowveld won the award for the neatest table, while Swift Group and the Pumas’ forward pack came in joint first place, winning a fantastic trip to Bilene in Mozambique. MyLowveld would like the thank Heidel Eggs, the Steval Pumas and Junxion Communications for going all out to put on a wonderful event.

final touch, add the stringy cheese to the top of the scrumptious dish.

To add even more flavour to the dish, serve with roasted butternut and honey glaze.

Dale Hes, Delmari van Vuuren, Marco Koekemoer and Lizelle Hemphill of MyLowveld.Marco Koekemoer firing it up.

26 Fire Proofing and DecorDIY

Adele du Toit

Most fires start small and can be nipped in the bud immediately by making use of the most effective firefighting tool, a fire extinguisher.

MyLowveld had a chat with Jeffrey Ndaba, a firefighter who has been working for Working on Fire for the past 11 years.

Jeffrey highlights the importance for every household to have sufficient fire extinguishers. “Most fires start small and spread really quickly. So by the time the firefighters get to your house, whether it is 2 or 5 minutes away, your whole house may be burning. Fires spread incredibly fast and if not extinguished immediately can claim your entire house and more.”

Jeffrey adds that fire season is obviously the time when fires are most prevalent, most calls going through to the fire brigade being thatched roofs burning.

“People like to live near the mountains so if there is a veld fire, it can jump to a thatched roof. Make sure your fire lines are in place, otherwise you will most certainly experience a burning roof. Other causes of fires are short circuits in power lines and in many cases, people forgetting to switch off their stoves.”

If a fire does break out in your home, Jeffrey advises that you grab the fire extinguisher and put the fire out as soon as possible while someone else calls the fire station. He adds that it is better to use a fire extinguisher that contains foam,

opposed to tap water.“Some fires,

especially electrical ones, will explode if you try to extinguish them with water. Fire extinguishers are much more effective for all kinds of fires.”

Jeffrey advises that when buying a fire extinguisher, you need to look at the expiry date and make sure it is SABS

approved. You can purchase one at your local hardware store.

“Take the size of your house into account. If you live in a larger home, opt for a 9kg extinguisher. Have smaller ones in rooms with plugs and always have one close at hand in your braai area. It would be a good idea to have one large and two little ones in this section of your home.”

Jeffrey advises that homeowners and businesses regularly check the expiry dates of their fire extinguishers, and adds that if you do not know how to use one, please contact your nearest fire station to lend a helping hand.

Jeffrey concludes, “It’s actually very simple. Just remove the pin and spray onto the fire.”

Nelspruit Fire Brigade: 013 753 3019 Extension 1.

How to fireproof your home

Jeffrey Ndaba showing the importance of a fire extinguisher.

Back in the 60s and 70s, it was all the rage to decorate your kitchen with bright patches of colour, but modern kitchens are increasingly characterised by dull, neutral colour schemes and a clean-cut sterility.

Retro, however, has made a strong comeback in recent years, and when you walk into any home improvement store, you will see brightly coloured kitchen appliances and colour schemes that add vibrant character to the heart of your home.

Here’s a guide on how to get your kitchen popping with colour this year:

Define your colour paletteChoose a somewhat muted

dominant colour and a richer, brighter secondary colour which will complement it. Third or fourth colours should only be used as accents.

Keep it lightAlways try to lift darker shades with

lighter colours. Conversely, add some luxuriant darker hues to give richness to light colours.

Test it outNatural light in a room can affect

wall colour intensity, so before you choose a colour, test it out in the room beforehand.

It’s not just the wallsUse the cabinets, chairs,

countertops, fabrics, tiles or appliances to add splashes of colour which fit with the overall scheme.

LightingDifferent coloured lights can help

you to complete your colour scheme. 5 colour schemes that work- Monochromatics: this is the use

of a single colour which is used in various shades throughout.

- Analogous: uses three colours that are adjacent to each other on the colour wheel; one as dominant and the others as accents.

- Complementary: using colours that are directly opposite from each other on the colour wheel creates a powerful visual impact. Keep it toned down as it is easy for this to look harsh.

- Triad: Use three colours that are equally spaced apart on the colour wheel.

- Neutral: black, white, cream, grey, beige, stone or brown all fit in here. This is a good scheme for small kitchens, as it creates the illusion of space.

Make your kitchen pop

27Invasive Species

Dale Hes

If you’re looking to give your garden a facelift or aren’t quite sure of what exactly is growing on your land, then dust off the reference books, because transgressing new regulations on alien plant species could cost you millions of rand.

New alien and invasive species regulations were passed into law recently, and the penalties for not adhering to them are eye-wateringly stiff. First-time transgressors can be fined up to R5 million, or face a maximum of 10 years in prison, while second or third convictions could carry a R10-million fine and the same prison sentence.

The regulations, part of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, outline a list of 303 invasive alien plants that spread quickly and are regarded as threats to the natural environment. Category 1a plants (which include bug weed, lantana and famine weed) are considered the most harmful, and landowners are required by law to start a programme of removal if these occur on the property, with government help available if required.

According to the regulations, category 1b and 2 species need to be ‘controlled’, meaning that property holders must ensure that the specimens do not spread outside the borders of their land. If you feel there is a plausible reason for possessing, breeding, importing, buying or planting these species, then you have to apply for a permit, and there is no guarantee that it will be granted.

Tread carefully if you’re planning on selling your land too, because if you haven’t informed the new landowners of invasive species on the property, you open yourself up to some very

costly lawsuits. The regulations have attracted

attention both good and bad, with an equal number of people sitting on either side of the fence.

Eugene Jacobs, manager of Concrete and Garden Creations in Nelspruit, says that a number of plants that are commonly found in gardens across the country have been declared as invasives, particularly water plants such as the attractive yellow water lily.

“People do not have the knowledge to identify these, and don’t believe that such beautiful plants could be invaders. Gardeners should be very careful about what they grow in their gardens, as there are many invasive plants being distributed through, among other things, gifts from other gardens,” says Eugene.

He adds that although the plants do not create problems in small gardens, troubles arise when the seeds are naturally distributed.

“Birds eat the fruit, seeds are passed through their digestive systems and deposited somewhere else. Wind also distributes winged seeds many kilometres, while burr seeds can cling to the coats of animals until they drop and grow where they land,” he points out. Lesley Henderson, a scientist from the Agricultural Research Council’s Plant Protection Institute, says that regulations are required, but will be difficult to enforce.

“It is an exceptionally complicated problem. Regulations are necessary to protect our natural environment, but there are so many of these invasive plants spreading so rapidly, that it will be very difficult to control of all of them,” Henderson says.

She adds that once a certain plant has been declared as invasive, sellers such as nurseries will simply replace this with another alien species which

may be just as invasive increasing the problem further.

“Also many landowners are not only unknowledgeable about alien species, but won’t apply for permits. They are so busy that the last thing they need is even more paperwork on their desks,” Henderson points out.

At the bottom of the list are category 3 plants such as the eucalyptus, which- although they are aliens with

the potential to become invasive- do have some usefulness. The eucalyptus is known as an important source of wood, shade, beauty and food for bees. Permits are still required to import, possess, grow, breed, move, sell, buy or accept these plants as a gift.

For the full list of invasive plant species, go to www.invasives.org.za

The beautiful yellow water lily is popular as an ornamental plant, but is a highly invasive species. Photo: Wikipedia

Landowners will have to remove category 1 species such as the prolific Lantana. Photo: SANBI

Beware the aliens that lurk in your gardenYou see that pretty lily sitting peacefully in your water feature? It could bankrupt you.

Garden

28

Anni Jacobs

Many people don’t realise they can pick their own strawberries in our beloved Lowveld’s back garden.

Hidden away on the Plaston road outside White River, you will find the beautiful Strawberry Nursery, owned by Frieda and Abraham Visser, where you can do just that.

Starting in 2012 with just 80 strawberry plants, in two years the nursery has grown to accommodate an incredible 60 000 plants, with more fields being developed.

Walking into the strawberry fields at the height of the season (which runs

from September to early January), the smell of the juicy red fruit, begging to be picked, drifts into your nostrils.

You are given a bucket to collect the berries that most tickle your fancy, and at a supremely affordable R40 per kilogram, you may well want to fill it to the brim.

With the berries you find at the supermarket often spending several days on the shelf, you will be delighted at the freshness and bursting flavour of the just-picked strawberries.

Various growing methods are being employed by the nursery.

“We currently grow many of the

strawberries on the ground, but we are moving towards a tower system, which is a better use of space, provides natural protection against pests and makes the strawberries easier to pick,” Frieda explains.

Abraham believes in giving back to the environment, having dedicated an entire field for birds to feast on.

“They enjoy the strawberries just as much as we do!” Abraham says.

Picking provides a fun-filled outing for families, friends and school groups, and visitors can also leave with products such as traditional jams, syrup and fruit rolls, all lovingly made by Frieda.

Strawberry fields forever

Strawberries galore at the Strawberry Nursery.

The Strawberry Nursery is located

at H45A on the Plaston Road, just past the Vergenoeg turnoff from Rocky Drift, and is open to

the public from Mondays to Saturdays. For enquiries,

contact Frieda Visser on 082 623 5359.

Anni Jacobs

Skaters alert: the Lowveld’s first dedicated skate park has opened its doors in Rocky Drift, offering a world of possibilities for any and all skateboarding enthusiasts, who haven’t had many places to hone their skills in the past.

Simply named the Skate Park, owner Tanya Ritchie said she had opened the

state-of-the art facility to provide for local teenagers longing for a place to practice their skateboarding.

“I’m doing this for the children who haven’t had anywhere to use their talents. Here, they can be part of a

social, like-minded group and make lifelong friends. Skaters often skate in car parks and on the roads, which can be dangerous, so this will be a safe haven for them too,” says Tanya.

“There are 12 million skaters in the world and skateboarding is one of the fastest growing sports on earth, so it’s about time that the Lowveld joined in the fun,” she adds.

On entering the Skate Park you are

met by vibrantly coloured walls that are bound to lift your energy and spirit. The indoor park is packed with a myriad of ramps, rails and other structures which will delight the most ardent of skateboarders. A large kicker

ramp with a foam pit allows skaters to practice their most difficult tricks without fear of injury.

The park is the only one in the province to house a foam pit.

A separate room has been dedicated to little children, with two manageable ramps set up for them. Handily, a lounge has been set up next to the room, allowing parents to watch their kids. Parents can also leave their children (under the watchful eyes of the staff) to enjoy the park while watching inspiring DVDs of the skating heroes who they can aspire to become.

Behind the reception area, a repair shop fixes any broken boards, while any old boards can be handed in for donation to children who can’t afford to buy one.

A café outside offers refreshments for tired skaters, their friends and parents, and Red Bull has been kind enough to sponsor a stereo system, while a pool table will soon be added to the park’s offerings.

“We have a CCTV system to keep an eye on the kids to see when they fall, and we don’t tolerate any violence, drugs or alcohol.”

According to Tanya, they want to keep the entrance fee as low as

possible and are looking for sponsors.“Sponsors can market their

businesses on big boards at the skate park. This will provide them with plenty of exposure.”

The Skate Park will be open from 09:00 to 19:00 during school holidays and 12:00 (midday) until 19:00 outside school holidays. Entrance fee is R30 but from February will be R60.

For further enquiries contact Tanya on 084 620 7777.

Dust off your skateboard, the Skate Park is here!

Things To DoAdventure

Tanya Ritchie

29

Beatrice Shongwe

There is quite possibly nothing scarier than being lost in the bush or facing a dangerous scenario that you have no idea how to deal with. In an unpredictable world, you never know when you might need some survival skills to pull you out of a potentially life-threatening situation.

Situated among the mountains and gorges between Mbombela and Kaapmuiden, the Fig Tree House offers unique camping and survival experiences for anyone who wants to connect with the bush and learn how to deal with such predicaments.

Similar to the well-known story of Swiss Family Robinson, who were stranded on an island and built a tree house to live in, guests at Fig Tree House are given the chance to sleep among the leafy branches of a majestic fig tree.

The tree house, set in the middle of a wild indigenous forest, can accommodate between four and six self-catering guests at a time, and contains comfortable beds, cutlery, a flushing toilet and shower.

“The Fig Tree House offers something different to the public who truly want to experience the bush without distractions and the added bells and whistles offered in lodges today. We aim to appeal to the slightly more adventurous and carefree individual seeking an authentic but comfortable bush experience,” says Fig Tree House owner Hunt Cheny.

Having grown up in the Kruger

National Park, Hunt is a South African Bear Grylls who is exceptionally skilled at living off the land and dealing with tricky and unexpected scenarios you may encounter while in the bush. He imparts his biblical knowledge of survival to members of the public through various holistic courses.

The courses involve everything from making fire, to finding and purifying water, interpreting animal behaviour, building shelters, weapons and traps, and learning some valuable medical and bush knowledge.

Known as B2B (back to basics) Survival, the idea is to teach self-reliance and the skills to cope with emergency situations.

“We have become too dependent on the “system” to provide our needs and have lost the skills of self-

reliance. A host of life-saving and life-supporting skills can make all the difference between being dependent or self-reliant, living or dying,” Hunt explains.

Apart from this fun-filled and enlightening course, the Fig Tree House also offers horse riding, rock climbing, abseiling and guided walks.

Visit the website at thefigtreehouse.com to get an idea of the accommodation, or call Hunt on 082 323 8516.

Learning about survival in the tree of life

• Due to its height off the ground, the tree house does not allow guests under the age of 8 years• Bring along your own sleeping bag and food• Rates are R600 per night for the whole tree house• Safe secure parking is available• Like B2B Survival on Facebook to keep up to date with their course schedules.

Things to know

Survival CampAdventure

30 ZipliningAdventure

Dale Hes

Short of paragliding or skydiving, taking on the zip line course at Skyway Trails in Hazyview is the closest to flying you can get. A zig-zagging network cutting through the Sabie River valley sees people of all ages soaring above the treetops like a bird, in a unique and thrilling two-and-a-half-hour adventure.

At the main office at Perry’s Bridge, clients briefly fill out the necessary forms before an introduction to their guides and gear needed to traverse the trail.

A training session is carried out before you take on the real deal, giving you a chance to learn all the correct techniques and to have a warmup run on a 20-meter long zip line travelling harmlessly above a soft sand pit.

The actual trail is comprised of 10 separate sections, each of which differs from the other in terms of the type of ride they offer. In total, the

trail measures 1.2km, and between each zip line an elevated platform allows riders to admire the beauty of the valley around them.

The first zip line, at a substantial 230-metres long, can result in participants reaching speeds of up to 70km/h as they fly over the stunning indigenous forest.

This first hurdle is a leap of faith, but once you have steadied your nerves and taken the plunge, the butterflies settle and you can enjoy the rest of the trip.

Any fear you have is replaced with an excitement for the whirlwind ride that is to follow. The trees whisk past in a kaleidoscope of different shades of green, and with each ride you grow more confident. You have the advantage of personally controlling the speed at which you descend the zip lines by simply gripping your gloved hand on the cable above you. Adrenaline junkies, however, may decide to release the cable altogether, going with the ‘look mom, no hands’

approach.Metal stoppers strategically placed

before every wooden platform also ensure that if you are travelling at high speed you are automatically slowed down to a safer pace, preventing you from clattering into your fellow zip liners on the platform.

The trail is designed in accordance with South African civil engineering standards, and maintenance on the zip lines is done regularly by the eagle-eyed guides, who are friendly characters with good senses of humour and a knack for allaying the fears of white-knuckled first timers. Both guides carry with them plenty of water bottles, so there is no danger of becoming dehydrated, and a 15-minute halfway stop next to a river allows riders to reflect on their adventure thus far.

The latter parts of the course offer

a different experience from the high paced, above-the-treetops thrillers. The zip lines now run below the tree canopy and riders are transported into a world of shady jungle plants and trickling streams.

The trail can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Children can be strapped to your guide or opt to rather take on the more sedate but challenging obstacle course. The only real hindrance would be a phobia of heights, as the highest zip line runs at 30 metres above the ground.

Skyway Trails offers a safe but exhilarating experience to be enjoyed by the family, a group of friends or work colleagues, and is guaranteed to provide plenty of laughter, excitement and lasting memories.

To book your spot, call 082 825 0209 or 013 737 6747.

Zipping and zagging through the tree tops

A refreshing halfway stop allows you to catch your breath.

Children can enjoy the ride in the safe hands of a guide.

Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience with Skyway Trails.

31RugbySport

The Pumas are ready to pounce on 2015Dale Hes

The Steval Pumas were undoubtedly the surprise package of the 2014 Currie Cup, having downed rugby giants such as the Sharks and Cheetahs. Much has been learnt and confidence has been gained, and while the team has lost a few valuable players to some of the country’s bigger franchises, some exciting new talent has been brought in too. Both the players and coaches are feeling positive about what the team can achieve in 2015.

“We have proved that we can be competitive at this level and playing such a great brand of rugby against the bigger unions is a huge positive. The players believe in themselves and know what to expect for 2015,” says Pumas head coach Jimmy Stonehouse.

Stonehouse adds, however, that several weaknesses caused the Pumas to have a sub-par second half of the season to end up sixth on the log.

“You have to play as hard as you can for the full 80 minutes, and the second-best player in a position must be as good as the number one, because as soon as injuries kick in, you have problems. Our defence and the way we execute plays also need to be improved,” he explains.

The loss of key players such as Renaldo Bothma, JW Jonker and Coenie Van Wyk is also a concern for the Pumas, but the hope is that new signings such as Griquas forwards Marnus Schoeman and Simon Westraad will step up to the plate.

“Losing quality players with experience is a blow, and it will take time for new players to develop and grow into the team. Luckily we have seven players who have had experience at Super 15 level so that helps a lot,” Stonehouse says.

Former Lions under-21 lock Jannie Stander, Western Province flank Shaun O’Brian and Leopards Fullback Hoffman Maritz are the other new players expected to shore up the gaps.

Schoeman (26) and Westraad (28) are eager to take on the challenge of playing for the men in pink.

“At Griquas, it felt like the team was hitting a barrier. The Pumas have been doing well for the past couple of seasons and are definitely moving forward, so this is an exciting opportunity for me to move forward with them and do my part to help them do well in big competitions,” says Schoeman, who has previously played at flank for the Bulls.

He adds that team spirit is good, and the new players have been warmly welcomed.

“Nelspruit is a beautiful town and all the people we have met have been very friendly. The team setup is great and our few months here have been awesome,” Schoeman says.

Westraad hopes to secure a starting

spot at hooker, which he was denied during his six years at Griquas.

“Unfortunately the Captain Ryno Barnes was the first choice at hooker, so I didn’t get a chance to play a lot. My personal goal would be to play more regularly and maybe get a starting jersey,” says Westraad.

Pre-season training is in full swing, and the first challenge that the Pumas will face is the Vodacom Cup, which begins in February.

“The standard of training is on a different level to what we had at Griquas and I have no doubt that we can win the Vodacom Cup. For the Currie Cup, the first thing we will try to do is reach the semi-finals, and the playoff games can go either way. I think we are just going to keep getting better,” Westraad says.

With an average of 5 000 people attending each home game at Mbombela Stadium, Stonehouse expressed his gratitude to the people of the Lowveld.

“Thanks to every single person here. Seeing strong support makes the players feel like they want to give something back and motivates them to play some outstanding rugby. Let’s come back in 2015 in our pink masses and make Mbombela a rugby mecca.”

Former Griquas and Blue Bulls flank Marnus Schoeman will be a key player for the 2015 season. Photo: Hennie Homann