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For over two decades, Reino von Wielligh has been a familiar face at the aQuellé Midmar Mile, the world’s largest open-water swimming event.

But in 2026, the Pretoria swimmer will take on his most ambitious challenge yet – swimming 32 miles during the 5-8 February event as part of the Midmar Mile Charity Challenge.

Since 2016, the aQuellé Midmar Mile has raised over R22 million for a variety of charitable causes.

“2026 marks my 21st consecutive year swimming at the Midmar Mile and my ninth year that I will be doing 16 miles for charity,” he explained. “I always come back to the Midmar Mile year after year, not just because of the amazing work that Midmar does to support charities, but because of the camaraderie between swimmers…

“For me it’s to see everyone reach their personal goal and smile once they complete the mile, whether it’s your 100th or first, the feeling of joy and accomplishment is shared among all swimmers.”

This year, Von Wielligh is doubling his usual distance. “The 32 miles has been an idea over the last two years as I want to create even greater awareness for [children’s cancer charity] Happy Bundles. I have decided to take on the 32 miles in 2026 as I am 32 years old…

“My inspiration for this ambitious challenge is that I know I can use my swimming talents to help kids with cancer and people with disabilities, and hopefully by swimming 32 miles, I will be able to get more people involved in these charities.”

Von Wielligh explained he is aiming to raise R32,000 – R1000 for each mile – with part of the funds raised also going to one of the new official aQuellé Midmar Mile charities, the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD).

For Von Wielligh, preparation has been gruelling, covering 60-70km a week in training.

“To prepare for the 32 miles, I have trained for the last seven months, doing sessions of up to 20km in a single session in a pool… with Midmar Dam known for its waves and wind, each mile will be a feat on its own getting closer to the 32,” he said.

Nutrition and recovery are equally important. “I will be taking my lessons learned over the last seven months, to fuel with enough carbs leading four days into the start of the charity swim as well as taking my Powerbar gels and my Sport RX recovery and protein drinks,” he explained.

Von Wielligh’s motivation is deeply rooted in the work of Happy Bundles. “Seeing how happy a kid is when they receive the bundles is something else, as if at that moment they forget about the fight they are fighting and they are just smiling. This is also why I swim for Happy Bundles, as the mileage I am swimming is nothing compared to what some of these kids go through.”

While this is very much Von Wielligh’s personal mission, he is not alone in his epic quest. Sydney Olympic silver medallist Terence Parkin will also attempt the 32-mile feat, adding further inspiration to the challenge. “At the 2025 Midmar Mile, Terence did mention that he might be joining, but it wasn’t until recently that [race director] Wayne Riddin told me that Terence is going to attempt the 32 miles effort with me. Myself, Wayne and Terence will also be supporting the NCPD.”

Von Wielligh hopes his mammoth effort will motivate others to take part. “I hope to inspire people and fellow swimmers to take on the challenge to join the Midmar Mile Charity Challenge and swim to make a difference,” he said.

Those wishing to support Von Wielligh’s mission, can do so at: Happy Bundles - Reino Swim 32 Miles for Smiles while entries to take part in the aQuellé Midmar Mile are still open at www.midmarmile.com

Photo credit: ActionPhotoSA

*MiTH is back with a bang!*

Where can you meet with friends and enjoy great music in a beautiful setting, with roaring fires, hearty food and a cash bar – all for just R50? MiTH evenings in the hills are alive with music – and while the nights are warming, the fires will still be lit and the welcome waiting. Join us for another night of heartfelt performances, local flavour, and the unique magic of MiTH.

MiTH – 14 January 2026

Venue: The Knoll Historic Guest Farm

Entrance: R50.00 (cash or Zapper at the door)

Info: 082 331 7271

20h15 – TEMPEST UNION

Tempest Union returns to kick off MiTH for 2026. Hailing from Hillcrest and made up of former members of Stormy Monday and the James Edward Project – all MiTH veterans – the band blends original material with cross-genre covers.

Featuring Sylvia Tempest on vocals and keys, William Kruger on drums, Rogan Ward on bass and mandolin, and Hylton Blignaut on vocals and guitar, Tempest Union is known for soulful performances and tight instrumentation. They are MiTH crowd favourite and a perfect start to this year’s MiTH.

19h30 – ZENDONI

Zendoni is a soulful vocalist, internationally acclaimed poet, and radio personality. She is best known for her powerful live performances and for sharing stages with artists of similar creative energy. Her musical influences include Freshly Ground, Nomfundo Xaluva and Oliver Mtukudzi, resulting in a rich blend of poetry and music.

For this MiTH experience, she is accompanied by Christopher Shuku – a South African pianist, composer and music educator active since 2013, committed to teaching music theory and developing expressive performance.

19h00 – ROSS WILLIAMS

Hailing from Howick, Ross Williams draws inspiration from folk, country, indie and alternative music. He enjoys playing guitar, singing, and sharing short cover clips on social media. While music competes with other commitments, it remains a vital creative outlet, and Ross continues to challenge himself and grow whenever the opportunity arises.

ABOUT MiTH

The KZN Midlands’ favourite music venue, MiTH is a platform for beginners, professionals and music lovers to celebrate the joy of live performance. Hosted every second Wednesday at The Knoll Historic Guest Farm, Hilton.

Food and soft drinks are available for sale. Cash bar on site.

Info: 082 331 7271

Visit www.mith.co.za for more information, or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to perform.

DIRECTIONS TO MiTH

Take the N3 to Hilton. Turn into Hilton Village and drive 5.2 km along Hilton Avenue, which becomes Dennis Shepstone Drive. Look for Knoll Drive on your right – the entrance to MiTH is the second left into The Knoll Historic Guest Farm.

French star Damien Joly will be joining the thousands of swimmers taking on the 2026 aQuellé Midmar Mile set for Midmar Dam in KwaZulu‑Natal from 5-8 February.

The three-time Olympian and Olympic finalist has confirmed his participation, adding international prestige to a race already renowned for its mix of elite competition and mass participation.

“The Midmar Mile is a very well-known race in South Africa, and I was happy to be invited to take part. It’s a great opportunity to race in a different environment, experience a new competition format, and enjoy a strong and passionate swimming community,” Joly said.

The aQuelllé Midmar Mile attracts thousands of swimmers every year, ranging from first-time entrants to seasoned professionals, and Joly said he had heard much about the unique atmosphere that surrounds the event. “I’ve heard that it’s much more than just a race,” he explained. “The crowd, the energy around the dam, and the number of participants make it very special. It’s also known for being extremely competitive at the front while remaining very inclusive, which is quite unique.”

Joly is no stranger to South Africa, having previously trained in Johannesburg and Pretoria. “I also had the opportunity to visit the country and go on safari, which were incredible experiences. It’s a beautiful country, and everything went really well during my time there,” he recalled.

Apart from representing his country at three Olympic Games, the 33-year-old Frenchman’s career highlights include claiming a silver medal at the 2022 World Short Course Championships and a European Championships bronze, both in the 1500m freestyle, while also holding the French national record in the event.

Looking ahead to February’s race, Joly is motivated by the chance to compete against a strong line-up. “I’m really looking forward to racing in such a legendary event and feeling that atmosphere first-hand. Competing against strong international swimmers in an open water setting like Midmar is something I’m very motivated by,” he said.

When asked about his chances of pulling off a victory, Joly reckoned: “I always approach races with confidence in my preparation, but also with a lot of respect for my competitors. Open water racing can be unpredictable, so the focus is on executing a smart race and giving my best on the day.”

While the battle out in front will be a heated one, for Joly, the inclusivity of the aQuellé Midmar Mile is part of its magic. “That’s one of the things that makes Midmar so special. To share the same start line with first‑timers, passionate amateurs, and elite athletes is a reminder of why we swim in the first place: for the love of the sport and the challenge it brings.”

Beyond competition, Joly also views the event as an opportunity for growth. “I hope to gain experience, memories, and inspiration. Racing at Midmar is also an opportunity to step out of my usual competitive environment and grow as an athlete and as a person.”

Entries for the 2026 aQuellé Midmar Mile are still open. Those wishing to take part should head to www.midmarmile.com

Top image LHS - Damien Joly claims silver at 2022 world short course champs.

Looking for that perfect top that transitions from the office to a weekend brunch? Say hello to Mushka's Kari Top.

What makes it special?

The Fabric: Batik print on high-quality viscose.
The Cut: A slightly longer sleeve for extra confidence and comfort.
The Finish: Side slits and front pleats that allow the fabric to move with you.

At just R295.00, it’s the affordable luxury your wardrobe deserves.

Available in sizes 32 to 40.

MUSHKA is OPEN Daily. We look forward to welcoming you at Piggly Wiggly - Midlands

Find more MUSHKA magic online www.mushka.co.za

Have questions? WhatsApp Robyn on 082 858 9262

Did you know?
Kids don’t always tell us when they can’t see clearly — but blurry vision can affect reading, focus, confidence & learning in a big way.

Before the school year gets busy, make sure their eyes are school-ready.

A quick eye exam now can make all the difference in the classroom.

We’re back from 7 January — bookings are open!

Call 076 050 5877

Clear vision = confident learners

The James Craib Field is home to the Hilton Eagles Sports Club, a homeschool-centred community playing team sports including soccer, hockey, ultimate, touch rugby and softball. This provides a social, outdoor and skills-based environment for children to play team sports outside of the school structure. The ages served range from four years upward to the competitive senior teenage team.

Ultimate – commonly known as “Frisbee”, but this is a patented brand – is currently the most popular sport. The seven-a-side game requires athleticism, coordination and skill. This growing sport is coordinated by SAFDA (South African Flying Disc Association), and we anticipate seeing further growth in the coming years.

The teenage Eagles team took part in the Eastern Region (KZN) Regionals in April and September, and recently competed at Uprising, an U20 tournament of 10 teams attracting players from five provinces. After a close loss of 11-8 in the play-offs to the eventual winners the Rambs (Durban), the Eagles narrowly succumbed to the Donkeys (Pietermaritzburg) 12-10 in the semi-finals, before going on to beat the Jackals (Lion’s River) 11-10 for third place.

Earlier in the year, an U24 squad – the Wild Dogs – was selected to represent South Africa at the U24 World Championships in Spain. Four players from Hilton were part of this elite squad: Reuben Macfarlane, Keziah Simpson, and brothers Jonathan and Samuel Combrink.

Congratulations to our local Hilton players for being selected to this team. Eagles coach Daniel Rushton was also the defence coach for the Wild Dogs, who represented their country admirably at the tournament.

The Eagles prize-giving held last week saw these and other players awarded for their excellent performances this year, both in talent and in the spirit of sportsmanship.

A municipal field, James Craib Field is maintained and mowed by the homeschool community as well as Hilton Quarry Spar. The field, enjoyed by the Hilton community at large, requires a fresh layer of topsoil, grass and fertilising in the coming months. To contribute to this project, please WhatsApp Eagles head coach Curran Grieshaber on 083 352 1770.

Top image left to right: SA U24 player Reuben Macfarlane, head coach Curran Grieshaber and coach Daniel Rushton.

Below The Ultimate Team.

Popular KwaZulu-Natal radio personality Keri Miller has confirmed she will take part in next year’s aQuellé Midmar Mile from 5-8 February, competing in the family race on the Saturday while also supporting the event as an ambassador for sponsor Mr Price Sport.

The co-founder of digital radio station PlayZN will be swimming her third aQuellé Midmar Mile, alongside a large family contingent which includes her sister, brother-in-law, niece and two nephews. “As a family, last year was our first time swimming Midmar together and we absolutely loved it,” she explained.

An interview with aQuellé Midmar Mile race director Wayne Riddin a few years ago and the promise of a coveted Midmar towel was all it took to nudge Miller (Pictured here with her nephew Brad) into entering the event for the first time in 2024.

“It’s a really great towel,” she joked.

“For the 2025 race, my sister had already entered her whole family and I thought, if [my niece] Charli-Rose can swim it at six, then nothing is stopping me. It felt like one of the best family days we could ever have together. Such a cool memory to make.”

Miller said the event aligns closely with her belief in active living. “Considering I have a radio station called PlayZN, I’m a huge supporter of anything that gets us outside, off our phones and into our bodies. For anyone who’s had the privilege of learning to swim, this is one of the most satisfying things you can do. And everyone loves a medal. It’s such a celebration of how beautiful Midmar is.”

For Miller, serving as an ambassador for Mr Price Sport at next year’s aQuellé Midmar Mile also carries personal significance. “It’s a beautiful reminder that I’m in a strong, healthy body and that at 43 I can move happily and pain-free. Being able to represent a local brand in a local race feels special. I’m grateful and I hope to see more women my age shifting how they think about and treat their beautiful bodies,” she said.

As for preparation in the build-up to the race, apart from yoga and general fitness training, Miller reckoned: “I’ll do some training with Nix O’Driscoll, who is a wonderful coach and will give me all the pointers, and then keep some sea swimming going because we know Midmar is not flat!”

The family element remains central to her Midmar experience, however. “Spending time with Matt, Brad and Charli. Those three are everything to me… I just want to be present, cross that finish line together and get our family photo at the end. I get teary even thinking about it. I’m obsessed with those little humans,” Miller said.

Reflecting on the event’s broader impact, she added: “The sense of accomplishment at the end is huge and it’s so doable. You don’t have to be elite to compete. It’s the perfect race.”

Those keen to experience that sense of accomplishment for themselves can enter the aQuellé Midmar Mile at www.midmarmile.com with early-bird entries closing on 21 December.

December is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and it's the perfect time to show your skin some love.

Skin cancer is largely preventable with sun-smart habits and early detection – and we’re here to help! We’ve partnered with CANSA to offer ABCDE skin screenings* at participating clinics throughout the month.

R100 per screening

Call your 033 343 0884 to check availability and book in advance!

*𝘈𝘷𝘢𝘪𝘭𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘢𝘵 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘪𝘱𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘱𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘢𝘤𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺.

Grace College is proud to announce the exceptional matric results achieved by the Class of 2025, reflecting academic excellence, perseverance, and a strong culture of commitment across the school community.

The Class of 2025 achieved a 100% pass rate, with 87% of learners obtaining Bachelor Degree passes, a remarkable accomplishment that places Grace College among top-performing schools nationally. Learners collectively earned 59 Subject A’s and 97 Subject B’s, highlighting both depth and consistency of academic performance.

Grace College is especially proud to recognise its Top Achievers (A Aggregate Learners):
Michael Brown – 6 Subject A’s (Below LHS)
Emily Napier – 6 Subject A’s (Below centre)
Jishan Pillay – 4 Subject A’s (Below RHS)
Dru Dawson – 5 Subject A’s
Robyn Walters – 5 Subject A’s

In addition to his outstanding overall results, Michael Brown achieved in the Top 1% National ranking in Business Studies.

These results are a testament to the hard work and determination of the learners, the commitment of Grace College’s educators, and the unwavering support of families throughout the academic journey.

Grace College congratulates the entire Class of 2025 on this significant milestone and warmly welcomes them into the Grace College alumni community, wishing each learner continued success as they embark on the next chapter of their lives.

Congratulations to the Grace College Class of 2025!

We are incredibly proud of our Class of 2025 and their outstanding matric results. Your hard work, perseverance, and commitment have paid off in an exceptional way.

Results at a Glance:
100% Pass Rate
87% Bachelor Degree Pass
59 Subject A’s
97 Subject B’s

Well done to every learner, educator, and family who contributed to this incredible achievement.

We celebrate you!

Spacious, beautifully appointed rooms designed for rest, privacy and quiet comfort.

At Harrington House, every detail is considered - from elegant interiors to the calm atmosphere that makes a stay feel effortless.

Perfectly suited to Hilton College families travelling from afar during back to school season, especially those settling their Grade 8s, offering a refined place to pause, reflect and recharge during an important milestone.

Luxury, warmth and thoughtful hospitality, just minutes from the school.

Book with us on AirBnB/Booking.Com

Call: 066 473 8699
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Your weekly farm-fresh favourites are waiting at Rotunda Farm Stall! From crisp veggies and juicy fruit to homemade treats and local honey – we’ve packed quality, value and freshness into every deal.

Stock up on everyday essentials
Free deliveries to Hilton, Howick & Midlands
Pensioners get 5% off (Tues & Wed)

Pop in, support local and taste the difference.

Valid from 7 January 2026 to 11 January 2026, while stocks last.

Exciting news! Petal Accounting has moved! Our new business address is Suite 1, Pin Oak. Corner of Pin Oak and Quarry Road Hilton.

Our telephone number has stayed the same which is 033 330 4055.

We officially open our offices on Tuesday the 6th of January this year but we are all available from the 5th for any emergencies.

For our Howick based clients, just let us know if you need documents collected and we will do that with pleasure.

My home is in Howick just around the corner from the old office and you are also welcome to drop off documents for us there.

I look forward to welcoming you at our new offices soon. Angela and the Petal Team

 

We live in a time where we are surrounded by noise.

Sensational headlines, dramatic stories, and negativity that seems to fill every space we look. The world feels faster, harsher, and more reactive than it ever before. And without realising it, many of us absorb this energy…..we mirror what we see.

Growing up, I remember we could choose feel-good movies and heartwarming stories that lifted our spirits. We thought about what we wanted to read and went to the library and we selected the books that inspired us and filled us with possibility.

Today, much of the content we encounter, even when we are not actively looking for it, is filled with aggression, conflict, and shock value because that is what sells. Slowly, we have begun to normalise that intensity and negativity in our everyday lives.

But I would like to remind you of something we often forget:

We always have a choice about what we feed our minds and hearts.

Imagine a world where:
creators intentionally produced more uplifting and inspiring stories,
we celebrated positive behaviour as loudly as we emphasised the negative,
people chose compassion and understanding before judgment,
and as a collective, we paused to ask: How can I make this moment better?

The ripple effect would be extraordinary.

Choosing positivity is not about ignoring struggle. It is about anchoring ourselves in hope, possibility, kindness, and awareness. It is a shift from focusing on what is wrong to recognising what we can rise above and transform.

So today, I would like to invite you to pause and reflect:
how can you contribute positively to the world around you today?

It may be something small like a smile, a message of encouragement, letting someone go ahead in traffic, or simply choosing not to engage in negativity.

Positivity is powerful.
It heals.
It connects us.
It changes conversations.
It influences the emotional climate of our homes, workplaces, and communities.

And most importantly….it brings us back to who we truly are.

Let us be the ones who choose hope.
Let us be the ones who spread warmth.
Let us be the ones who remind the world that goodness still exists.

Because when we choose positivity, we give others permission to do the same.

Sandra Nel - Life Coach

082 290 5640

Laddsworth Grade 7 Prize Giving, Speech Day and Bell-Ringing Ceremony

Following an extraordinary year, we proudly celebrated the achievements of the Grade 7 Class of 2025.

Thank you to Paralympian, Ms Alani Ferreira, for taking the time to share and inspire us with your story. Congratulations to all the prize winners, and a special well done to the Dux of 2025, Zoey Smith, who also received a tablet kindly donated by our valued IT supplier, CNM IT Solutions.

In a treasured Laddsworth tradition, the ringing of the bell marked this group’s final act as pupils of the school, symbolizing their legacy that will echo through our history for years to come.

Thank you, Class of 2025, for the memories, the leadership, and the achievements you leave behind.

Keep flying the Laddsworth flag and continue to Aim High

Why Burnout Is Still So Prevalent And What You Can Do About It

Over the years, we have become more aware of burnout and its impact on our well-being yet it remains one of the most common challenges people face today. Many individuals feel drained, overwhelmed, or constantly on alert, and often dismiss it as “just stress.”

But burnout is far more than stress.

It is a signal from the mind and body that something needs attention, support, or realignment.

This month, I wrote a new blog exploring why burnout is still so prevalent and how our modern workplaces, environments, and inner expectations all contribute to the growing sense of fatigue many people carry.

If you missed it, you can read it here:
Why is Burnout Still so Prevalent and What Can We Do About It

How Balanced Are You Really?

To help you reflect on your own well-being, boundaries, and work-life alignment, I’ve created a Burnout & Balance Mini-Assessment a simple, practical tool that helps you recognise:
early warning signs of burnout
areas where you may be stretching yourself too thin
how supported you feel in your work environment
the influence leadership and workplace culture may be having on you
where you may need to set clearer boundaries or make small changes

You can download the assessment here:
BALANCE & BURNOUT ASSESSMENT

The assessment includes scoring guidance and reflection prompts to help you interpret your results. It’s short, insightful, and designed to support both individuals and workplaces.

Burnout Is Not a Personal Failure

One of the most important reminders I want to share is this:
Burnout is not a weakness.
Burnout is not an inability to cope.
Burnout is not your fault.

Burnout is a response to prolonged stress, misalignment, hidden pressures, lack of boundaries, or being in environments that don’t support well-being. And awareness is the beginning of change.

Whether you are an employee, a leader, a business owner, or someone trying to find your footing again, reflection is the first step toward clarity.

If your assessment raises concerns… you are not alone.

I offer coaching for individuals as well as workplace wellness sessions for teams and organisations. If you would like to:
explore your assessment results together
learn practical strategies to prevent burnout
improve boundaries and alignment
strengthen confidence and self-belief
support your team or workplace

I would be honoured to assist you.

You can reach me at:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

www.sandranelcoaching.co.za