Absa, a proudly Pan-African bank, hosted its annual Team Absa Training Camp at Karkloof Country Club in KwaZulu-Natal from 25 to 28 January in preparation for the 2024 Absa Cape Epic.

Absa demonstrated its unwavering commitment to community empowerment through education during this year's training camp activities. The bank’s key stakeholders took charge of spearheading significant upgrades and refurbishments at Yarrow Intermediate School, reaffirming Absa's dedication to being an active force for good in the communities it serves. Notably, this school holds special significance for Absa, as it is the same institution where the bank previously donated a stationary bus. The bus has now been transformed into a library, capable of simultaneously accommodating up to 60 children from Grade R to Grade 7. This initiative aligns with the bank’s commitment to empowering communities through education and being an active force for good in everything it does.

Mary Gray, Yarrow Intermediate School Project Coordinator, stated, "Our sincere thanks to Absa for its continued support at Yarrow School. The upgrades to the Grade R and Grade 1 blocks were fundamental for the beginning of the school year, and we are grateful for their support."

Tina Venter, Executive: Marketing Operations, Absa Group Marketing and Corporate Affairs, says, “Absa aims to create a meaningful impact by developing the communities we operate in. The refurbishments and upgrades at the Yarrow Intermediate School at the start of the 2024 school year are another milestone for the Group. We pride ourselves on empowering Africa’s tomorrow, together … one story at a time, by contributing to the success of our country's literacy rate."

The new partnership between Absa and the official charity partner of the Absa Cape Epic, ILoveBoobies, saw the provision of 400 free breast examinations to South African women in the communities surrounding the Karkloof Valley, during Team Absa Training Camp weekend.

Next up is the 20th edition of the Absa Cape Epic, which starts on Sunday, 17 March 2024. This race has undoubtedly earned its rightful place as one of the most exhilarating and life-changing mountain biking races in the world.

Pictured here top: Sydney Nhlanhla Mbhele, Absa and Mzwakhe Mdunge, Yarrow School Principal

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Ophthalmologist transition at Lenmed Howick Private Hospital: Grateful farewell to Dr Sara and a warm welcome to Dr Davey 

Lenmed Howick Private Hospital bids a heartfelt farewell to the esteemed Dr Sara, who has been a dedicated and compassionate ophthalmologist serving the community of Howick. His unwavering commitment to eye care and patient well-being has left an indelible mark on the hearts of many.

While Dr Sara’s departure marks the end of an era and the hospital extends its deepest gratitude to Dr Sara for his tireless efforts, expertise, and the positive impact he has made during his tenure, the community can look forward to continued exceptional eye care with the arrival of Dr Davey.

Hospital Manager, Inga Vermeulen, expressed her appreciation for Dr Sara’s contributions, saying, “Dr Sara has been a cornerstone of our ophthalmology department, and his commitment to providing exceptional care has positively impacted countless lives. We extend our deepest gratitude for his service and wish him the very best in his future endeavours.”

Welcoming Dr Davey to Howick Private Hospital, the hospital is confident in his abilities to seamlessly carry forward the legacy of exceptional ophthalmological care. With a wealth of experience and a passion for serving communities, Dr Davey is set to build upon the foundation laid by his predecessor.

Dr Davey completed his MBChB undergraduate degree with the University of Free State and later completed his Fellowship of the College of Ophthalmologists of South Africa. After a year spent as an Ophthalmology Consultant in Durban, Dr Davey was awarded two fellowships in cornea and refractive surgery. He has trained with world leaders in eye surgery at top institutions.

Vermeulen also spoke about the seamless transition, assuring the community that patient care remains the top priority. She stated, “We are thrilled to welcome Dr Davey to our team. His wealth of experience ensures that the high standard of care set by Dr Sara will be retained. We will work diligently to ensure a smooth transition to guarantee that patient care and services are not compromised during this change as we further Lenmed’s vision and mission of creating healthier and prosperous communities.”

And we’re firmly into 2024 with all sorts on the go already!

Since the first week in January, we’ve hosted a number of competitions starting with the Greendale Spar Drawn trips which was won by Colin Norris, Chantal D’Hotman & Dave Mainprize. The Halfway Toyota Drawn pairs was an interesting competition as first place was shared by two teams who peeled against each other. Well done to Mary Steytler and Marie Gouws, as well as Koos Marais and Mally Gouws on an interesting win! Thanks to our dedicated sponsors for their ongoing support.

In addition to these two competitions, we also hosted the J Leslie Smith & Company Nominated Pairs 2 – 4 – 2 competition. We had a fantastic turnout of twenty teams who were all spoilt with delicious brownies at tea time courtesy of our generous sponsor. The players of the day were:-

1st Prize: Colin Brown & Mary Steytler
2nd Prize: Alan Willey & Phil Lang
Plate Prize: Ray Bester & Edwin Hohls

At the end of last week we also hosted our Fun Friday Night Lights session which is played in the 4-3-2-1 format with individual scoring. Congratulation to Lisa Nagel who won it with a very comfortable margin.

We’ve also played the first few rounds of league games; with matches being played on a Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning in order to shorten the league season. After the first few rounds our ladies team has gained 4.5 points, while the men have 6 points. We wish them well for the rest of the season.

That’s all for this week… see you on the greens!

Events to keep an eye out for…

Friday, 26 January: Dormehl Nominated 2 Bowl Trips. Tabs In 08h45 (Book with Pippa on 083 467 8140)

Regular tabs in times are:-
Tuesdays at 08h15
Wednesdays at 13h15
Saturdays at 13h15.

Visitors are always welcome. Coaching by registered coaches is available.

For more information contact Sharon on 082 900 5944.

Pictured above: Mary Steytler & Colin Brown, winners of the JLS 2-4-2 Competition with Crystal Dekkar from J Leslie Smith & Co.

'We congratulate Grade 12 learner, Brooklynn Meintjies, who has been voted the Head Girl of the KZN Midlands Youth Choir.

Age Quod Agis, Brooklynn!' shared Howick High School.

Paint your kitchen gorgeous. For a quick, budget friendly modern flip give us a shout.
We offer:
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More about The Design Den

Organisers of the aQuellé Midmar Mile have confirmed that Australian Nick Sloman will head up the international field taking part in this year’s race.

The 2019 men’s champion will head back to the famous KwaZulu-Natal race after the World Aquatics Championships in Doha and has set his sights not only on regaining the title, but on breaking seven-time winner Chad Ho’s 2016 course record of 17 minutes.

It’s a case of unfinished business as the last time Sloman competed at the aQuellé Midmar Mile, he finished just one second off the record.

“The Midmar for me is basically just redemption for the last time I was there,” he explained. “The goal was to break the record and I pretty much matched it that year.

Now I’ve come back fitter, smarter and wiser so I have no doubt that I have the ability to break it. I’m just praying for the right conditions on the day that will hopefully help me.”

Despite just missing out on the record last time out, Sloman has fond memories of the world’s largest open water race.

“I’m very excited to be racing this year at Midmar. It’s been a couple of years since I last did it and it’s still one of the highlights of my career – it’s a fantastic atmosphere that the South Africans put on and it’s one of the biggest participation races ever recorded so it’s amazing to be a part of it.

“People were so friendly last time I was there. It was sort of the start of my career internationally so they were very welcoming and I’ll never forget the race atmosphere and just being part of something big.

“Hopefully this year can be the year that I can break that 17 minutes and be the first swimmer to do so. Obviously, I’ve raced Chad Ho in the past and I know how good he was but just me being fitter, wiser, more mature – I know what my body is capable of and I’m confident that I can break that 17-minute barrier,” added Sloman.

The 26-year-old was part of the Australian team that clinched the bronze medal in the open water team event at last year’s World Aquatics Championships and is targeting another podium place at this year’s event in Doha before competing at his first Olympic Games in Paris later in the year.

“My training is going really well,” he said of his preparations. “I’m doing some really solid sets. The five weeks heading into Doha we hit that 80km mark per week so it can get quite challenging but overall I'm feeling fit and feeling confident and ready to race in Doha,” he explained.

“This year would have to be one of the biggest years of my career. I’m aiming for that Olympic debut but obviously I’m an athlete who tries to aim for the top so I’m not going to shy away from wanting to be the best in the world and I’m aiming to do that. I’ve had some good results in the past few races so I guess the sky’s the limit really on what I’m able to achieve and I’m looking forward to racing these big races the next couple of months.”

The aQuellé Midmar Mile takes place from 8-11 February with entries still open – and available at www.midmarmile.com

There is one more official seeding swim before the event, which takes place at Prime View Adventure & Leisure in Midrand this weekend, on 20 and 21 January.

More information is also available on the aQuellé Midmar Mile website.

Photo credit to Action Photo SA

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Black-Backed Jackal are such handsome animals... 

These three are pups no longer. They are growing fast and are already completely independent.And back in the large boma at Thula Thula - Exclusive Private Game Reserve our three Black-Backed Jackal have settled in beautifully.

Still growing, these three have become formidable predators and make short work of any game meat fed to them. A special thanks to Christiaan and his team for taking such great care of them in preparation for their release on this reserve.

Teamwork can play an important role in the race to consume large pieces of meat where other larger predators can steal food away in the blink of an eye...

Bringing out the best in wildlife we rehabilitate is our goal. Innocence and beauty is what we aim for, and achieve time after time.

If you are able to add uMngeni SPCA as a beneficiary on your My School card, please do so. We are always grateful for whatever support you are able to provide.

More about uMngeni SPCA

At the end of a year everyone deserves a break, some get one and some sadly, do not. So be patient with and kind to all the emergency, medical, retail, hospitality, municipal and other staff who keep showing up for us all through the holiday season.

VillageMedia will close from 20 December 2023 and re-open on 15 January in 2024. Emails will be checked from time to time during shutdown, and you are welcome to WhatsApp 072 654 9779 if something needs urgent action.

MIDLANDS HOSPICE 'A reminder to please note our Festive Trading. We will close @ 12.00 on Friday 22 December and Reopen at 8.00 on Tuesday 2 January.'

MIDLANDS SEPTIC SERVICES 'From Travis, myself and our exceptional staff, we would just like to wish our loyal customers a very Merry Xmas and hope 2024 is a great year for all.
Keep eating, see you soon.
Bookings now officially closed, and we are finishing the long list of clients today and tomorrow.
We unfortunately cannot take on any more suctions or blockages before Xmas.
We will be available on Wednesday 27/12 up until Saturday 30/12.
We close at 13:00 on 30/12, and reopen on Wednesday 03/01/2024.'

NUTS ABOUT BOOKS & TOYS

'Festive Season Trading Hours:

Saturday, 23rd Dec: 8am-1pm

Sunday, 24th to Tues, 26th Dec: Closed

Wed, 27th Dec to Fri, 29th Dec: 8.30am - 4.30pm

Sat, 30th Dec: 8.30am - 1 pm

Sun, 31st Dec to Tues 2nd Jan 2024: Closed

Best wishes to my loyal customers, followers, friends and family. Thank you for your loyal support over the past years.'

PIGGLY WIGGLY COFFEE SHOP

STANLEY'S 'Wishing all our customers a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year. Thank you for your support throughout the year.'

THE UGLY DUCKLING 'We are delighted to inform you that our stores will be open during the festive season to serve all your holiday shopping needs.

We understand the importance of finding the perfect gifts and essentials for your loved ones, and we want to make sure we are here to assist you in every way possible.

All of our stores will be open during the festive season with regular hours, except for Christmas Day and New Year's Day.

We hope to see you at one of our stores during this happy time. From our family to yours, we wish you a joyous and memorable holiday filled with love, laughter, and happiness. Thank you for your continued support and patronage.'

Swimmers eager to dive into the challenge of next month’s aQuellé Midmar Mile have been given an extra week to get their pre-entries in.

Race Director Wayne Riddin confirmed that the pre-entry deadline has been extended from 25 January to midnight on 31 January.

“As the interest and excitement surrounding the aQuellé Midmar Mile continue to build, we want to ensure that every swimmer has the opportunity to join us at the dam next month,” said Riddin.

“The new entry procedure allows us to keep the entries open longer. And by extending the pre-entry deadline to the end of the month, we hope to encourage even more participants to take the plunge and become part of this extraordinary event."

The aQuellé Midmar Mile, now in its 51st year, is scheduled to take place from Thursday, 8 February to Sunday, 11 February. The 8 and 16-mile Charity Challenge swims, which raise millions for several official charities every year, take place on the first two days of the event, and the other mass participation events, including the disabled and elite races, are set for the Saturday and Sunday.

“We are looking forward to welcoming thousands of swimmers from around the country – and world back to Midmar Dam again this February,” said Riddin.

“What makes this event so special is that it’s not only about the elite, international-level swimmers. This is an event for everyone – we have swimmers aged 8 to 80-plus and of abilities, all rubbing shoulders with the best of the best and they all have the same goal, to get from the start to the finish as best they can.”

Those keen to get in on the action can head to www.midmarmile.co.za for more information and to enter. Entries to certain events are possible on race day but at a higher fee. Pre-entry is highly recommended to avoid any delays at the dam.

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Try answering the questions below:
Will there be someone at home to give sufficient quality time to your dog?

Have you sufficient space for a dog?

Does your lease/complex allow you to keep a dog?

Are you prepared to exercise your dog sufficiently?

Is there open space either near your home or that you are prepared to drive to where you are allowed to exercise your dog if your grounds are not big enough?

Can you afford veterinary fees?

Are you prepared to give up time to ensure that your dog has the necessary training to socialise and to learn to obey basic commands like "sit" or "stay"?

Do you know that some types of dog are noisier or more energetic than others?

If you decide to adopt a puppy, are you prepared for some damage in your home ("toileting" accidents or chewing items, for example)?

Have you the time to groom a dog properly or can you afford grooming fees?

Can you afford to feed your dog properly - and we do mean "properly" - not makeshift diets, the cheapest food available of leftovers!

Do you appreciate that dogs, like people, grow old and may need special care and attention later in their lives?

If you cannot leave your dog with responsible relatives or friends when you go on holiday, can you afford the cost of boarding kennels?

Are you planning on staying in South Africa?

If you have answered "yes" to all of them, you are ready to adopt!

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

Are you prepared to love and care for a dog all its life, which is often more than ten years: - and not just when it is a cuddly puppy

'We did our first steri clinic of the year for #fundanenja in their new premises at the Mpophomeni Sports Stadium. We used the change room as our clinic which worked perfectly, and 20 dogs were booked to be sterilised. Very sadly we lost one dog on induction, which shakes us all and puts a damper on an otherwise very succesful clinic. When we look at the stats though of animals we have lost at steri clinic's, it is very very low. Its is always a risk with anesthesia and we do everything possible to prevent this.

Thank you to all involved at Funda Nenja.' shared Midmar Vet Clinic.

'As much as I love my studio painting, it cannot compare to the joy I get from painting outdoors in nature. Painting in real time with all one's senses heightened by the smells and sounds, the incredible natural lighting and feel of the breeze, is a therapeutic experience like no other. There is no comparison between a scene captured in a photograph and one experienced first hand in real time.

Plein air painting greatly improves one's creative skill. As pleasant as it is to be outdoors painting, it is also very challenging and so a great opportunity to learn and grow as an artist.' shared Carol Cox, Midlands based artist.

Today plein air painting is a flourishing and growing trend in our modern art world. Artists come together for 'paint out' excursions, workshops, and even 'plein air conferences' if you are in America. Landscapers today are finding that painting outdoors is as rewarding and powerful an experience a it was for the French Impressionists all those years ago.

Keep an eye open for this bird and botanical focused artist when you venture into nature in and around the KZN Midlands. You will also be able to view her works at the annual Harcourts Hilton ART in the Country exhibition which happens in May at Harrington House.

Contact Carol on 083 973 9555 to find out more about her workshops at her home studio or in a nearby meadow.

Congratulations to the Treverton College Matric class of 2023, who have achieved astounding results in the Matric Exams. They have achieved a 100% Pass, 86% Bachelor Degree Pass Rate, 76 Distinctions from 49 Students and two candidates in the Top 1% of the IEB; Kai Broom - Business Studies and Hailey Jelliman - Mathematical Literacy. The following subjects are above the National Average: Physical Sciences, Mathematics, Mathematical Literacy, Life Sciences, History, Business Studies, and Afrikaans First Additional Language.

7 Distinctions: Kai Broom and Karijn Kooy
6 Distinctions: Makena Ndambo, Georgina Thompson
5 Distinctions Megan Fernihough, Briony Fromwald, Hailey Jelliman
4 Distinctions: Callum Kenyon-Slade and Aphiwinhlanhla Mabaso
3 Distinctions: Caelyn Marx, Saskia Renzi, Adil Singh and Mbalentle Skwintshi

A remarkable achievement is not only the academic excellence that is proudly on display but also the same commitment that our students demonstrate in achieving outside the classroom. Kai Broom represented Treverton on the Matrics in Antarctica expedition in late 2022, followed by completing a 100km run in under 36 hours on the Drakensberg Escarpment in April this past year.

Karijn Kooy's determination saw her complete the revered Drakensberg Grand Traverse with Georgina Thompson in April, a 250km hike along the Drakensberg Escarpment. Most of our Top Achievers held leadership positions within the school, being involved in peer growth and discipline.

These additional roles and responsibilities have not been taken from our students but have rather been influential in growing a peer discipline of balance.

Education truly is an adventure.

For further information please visit www.treverton.co.za

Pictured top Kai Broom represented Treverton on the Matrics in Antarctica expedition in late 2022, followed by completing a 100km run in under 36 hours on the Drakensberg Escarpment last year.

Pictured below Karijn Kooy and Georgina Thompson completed the revered Drakensberg Grand Traverse in April.

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SANDPLAY THERAPY is universally suitable across cultures and languages. It is a non-verbal, non-prescriptive and non-invasive therapy developed by Dora Kalff. By using their hands, a Sandplayer creates images in the sand with water and miniature figurines (small objects or toys). Sandplay is suitable for both adults and children and occurs with a trained therapist.

The completed sand image pictured here was created for illustration purposes only as each sand image is sacred and confidential.

The healing potential of Sandplay is powerful, transcending verbal and outer world expectations and is effective for a range of issues, including trauma, anger, grief, relationships, divorce, adjustment, fears, and anxiety, as well as learning difficulties, including ADHD.

The tools of Sandplay include sand trays, sand, water, natural objects, and a library of miniature figurines.

Apart from the therapeutic value of an intentional Sandplay process, Sandplay also improves self-awareness and is a wonderful way to explore personal growth and development. Half the battle is won by being curious, saying yes and signing up for a series of sessions.

Lindi Redfern has a Master’s degree in Learning Support, Guidance and Counselling. She has worked for over 30 years as a school counsellor; teacher, manager, business owner and director and is a registered Jungian Sandplay therapist. Lindi works with children, adolescents and adults, supporting and facilitating their growth, enrichment, and healing processes. Lindi is a registered therapist and member of the Association for Sandplay Therapists https://sandplayassociation.com/ . Her recently published journal articles include “Uniquely Creative Together” and “Silent Group Sandplay Activates Healing”.

Connect with Lindi Redfern on 083 501 2506.

In the digital age, safeguarding your finances is paramount. Here are red flags to identify a scam banking call:
Unsolicited Contact: If they initiate contact without your consent, be cautious. Verify legitimacy before sharing any information.
Demand for Personal Information: Legitimate banks won't ask for sensitive data (account number, password, OTP) over the phone. Be wary of such requests.
Threats or Urgency: Scammers use threats or urgency to pressure you. Legitimate institutions won't resort to such tactics.
Suspicious Caller ID: Criminals may disguise their numbers. Don't trust caller IDs blindly; verify independently.
Lack of Caller Identification: If they won't provide ID or verify, it could be a scam. Genuine callers should readily identify themselves.
Online Requests: Ask you to go online into your account and transfer funds from one account to another advising that your account has been hacked by would be thieves.

If you suspect a scam banking call, Hang Up, Don't engage. End the call immediately. Contact your bank directly using official channels to confirm any concerns.

Give us a call to help us help you protect your finances

Call 033 330 3601 or visit 101 Main Street, Howick for more assistance from Cooke Fuller Group Insurance Brokers and Financial Advisers.

How technology is making workplaces better in 2024

In today's rapidly changing business environment, the significance of employee productivity and satisfaction cannot be overstated. They are critical elements that drive the success of any business.

The landscape of the workplace has undergone a dramatic transformation due to technological advancements. The advent of high-speed internet, cloud computing, and advanced software solutions has empowered employees to work more efficiently and effectively.

Warren Bonheim, Managing Director of Zinia, a technology group and Managed Services Provider (MSP), shares his top 7 insights on how tech makes workplaces more productive in 2024.
1. Revolutionising communication and collaboration
Modern technological tools have transformed how communication and collaboration occur in the workplace. Platforms such as instant messaging, video conferencing, and collaborative tools have simplified team interactions, making distance a non-issue. This development is especially crucial in the era of remote working, where effective communication and team unity are paramount.
2. Automation - a gateway to enhanced productivity and satisfaction
A standout benefit of technology in the workplace is automation. By taking over monotonous tasks, automation tools free up employees to focus on more intricate and creative aspects of their work. This shift leads to increased productivity and job satisfaction, as employees find more value and meaning in their tasks.
3. Data-driven insights for better management
The ability to gather and analyse extensive data sets is a significant advantage offered by technology. This data is invaluable for making informed decisions regarding various business aspects, including employee management. Understanding employee behaviours and preferences enables companies to devise strategies that enhance both productivity and satisfaction.
4. IT Managed Services - ensuring efficiency and continuity
The role of IT managed services is crucial in upholding and enhancing a company's technological backbone. These services ensure that all tech aspects, including software and hardware, are current, secure, and fully operational. Outsourcing IT management helps reduce technical issue-related downtimes, thus offering employees a more efficient and uninterrupted work environment.
5. Cybersecurity is safeguarding employee wellbeing
As dependence on technology grows, so does the importance of cybersecurity. Ensuring the safety of a company's data and the personal information of employees is vital. Adequate cybersecurity measures are essential in maintaining employee trust and confidence.
6. Fostering growth through technology-enabled training
Technology also plays a pivotal role in employee training and development. Through e-learning platforms and online training modules, employees can conveniently enhance their skills. Continuous learning opportunities contribute significantly to employee satisfaction and productivity.
7. The future - AI and machine learning shaping the workplace
Looking forward, technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are poised to further revolutionise the workplace. These technologies offer predictive insights, automate complex tasks, and provide in-depth analysis that might elude human observation, paving the way for greater productivity and operational efficiency.

In conclusion, incorporating technology in the workplace is no longer optional but a critical necessity for business success in 2024. Companies that effectively utilise these technological advancements will witness marked improvements in employee productivity and satisfaction. By embracing these innovations, businesses are set to foster a more dynamic, efficient, and rewarding work environment for their staff.

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The uMngeni Municipality in partnership with the uMgungundlovu Economic Development Agency can today reveal the new logo for the Howick Falls precinct.

The logo has been developed through extensive public participation and input. This process involved numerous public engagements (in person and online), consultation with the tourism sector, newspaper and social media adverts, and even an opportunity for the public to vote.

The symbols and colours of the logo have been chosen to encapsulate in inputs of as many stakeholders as possible.

The new corporate branding of the precinct marks the completion of the first phase of the precinct redevelopment. The next phases which are scheduled to break ground in March 2024 will see the redevelopment of the walkways, the installation of fencing and access control, improved lighting, braai facilities as well as the construction of washing areas for the community at Shiyabazali. The total package is worth R5 million.

Working with the uMgungundlovu Economic Development Agency, the uMngeni Municipality remains committed to the rehabilitation of Howick Falls and the growth of the tourism sector in the region.

Cllr CJ Pappas
Mayor
uMngeni Local Municipality