South African swimming superstar Chad le Clos will be taking on the gruelling 8-Mile Charity Challenge at next year’s aQuellé Midmar Mile, lending his support to those swimmers raising money for the Chad le Clos Foundation at the event next February.

The 2012 Olympic champion has long been associated with the world’s largest open-water swimming event but has not participated on a regular basis, rather focusing his efforts on the pool, where he has carved out an impressive international career.

While he’s often been on the edge of the famous KwaZulu-Natal dam lending his support, Le Clos said he’s thrilled to be taking part in a bigger way next year. “I’m very excited. To be honest, I haven't swum much at Midmar,” he said. “I've always been there whenever I could… I've always supported the Midmar Mile long before my foundation was involved, but I just really love to be there. I think it's a great day. I think from the Thursday through to the Sunday, it's just a great weekend,” he said.

The 33-year-old star added that the inclusiveness of the event remains one of its standout features. “I think what's quite unique about Midmar is that it seems to grow every year, and the fact that it just gives everybody of all ages the opportunity to compete. You know, you can be in your 80s… it's incredible. Swimming is a great sport for everybody.”

Le Clos will arrive at the aQuellé Midmar Mile after an extended break from competitive swimming, having stepped away from the pool earlier this year to recover fully from lingering injuries. The layoff has served its purpose, and the Olympic champion is now firmly targeting a return to top form, with qualification for next July’s Commonwealth Games the first step as he builds back towards elite competition.

While his long-term focus is on regaining race sharpness, the 8-Mile Charity Challenge provides an opportunity to channel his efforts into something more meaningful than medals. “In terms of the foundation, it's been a huge blessing to be a part of Midmar. Last year we raised a decent amount of money for charity, which is really, really great,” he said.

Established in 2018, the Chad le Clos Foundation works to create safer access to water across South Africa through drowning-prevention initiatives, water-safety education, and community engagement. Its programmes include developing young swimmers from disadvantaged communities, supporting promising talent with coaching and competition opportunities, and launching long-term projects aimed at reducing drownings in open-water and pool environments.

For Le Clos, swimming the 8-Mile Challenge is a way to connect with those supporting the cause. “For me personally, I'm really excited to swim the eight miles. I'm going to be doing a mile with each of the people who are swimming for my foundation,” he explained.

“So I'll be swimming a mile with each and just trying to lend my name and try to be the best I can, for the kids, to be honest.”

Having already raised millions for charity since the aQuellé Midmar Mile 8 and 16-Mile Charity Challenge began, organisers expect another impactful year of generating funds for worthy causes.

The 53rd aQuellé Midmar Mile takes place from 5-8 February 2026, with the Charity Challenge events on the first two days and the main events on the last two. Entries are currently open at www.midmarmile.com with Early Bird prices coming to an end on 21 December. Those individuals or companies eager to contribute to the Charity Challenge can head to: https://midmarmile.com/pages/how-to-fundraise-for-the-charity-challenge

A Letter from Gary

Dear valued Clients and Our Dedicated KSS Team,

As we celebrate another festive season and look toward a bright new year, we want to take a moment to share our heartfelt gratitude. since opening our doors in 1989, Knight Security Solutions has grown, evolved, and stood strong - because of you.

To our clients: Thank you for placing your trust in us fer more than three decades. your loyalty. partnership, and belief in the work we do have shaped who we are today. Serving this community is an honour, and we are deeply grateful te be part of your safety and success.

To our staff: You are the heart of KSS. Your unwavering dedication, professionalism, and courage have carried us through every challenge and every achievement. Thank you for showing up- day and knight - with integrity and commitment that reflect the very best of our values.

This season reminds us of what truly matters: connection, community, and looking after one another. We are proud to stand beside you, and we look forward to continuing our journey together as we build an even safer, stronger future.

From our KSS family to yours, we wish you a joyful festive season and a prosperous New Year.

Thank you for supporting us since 1989.
Here's to many more years together.

Warm regards
Gary

Holiday security tips - home and business,
The festive season brings both joy and the inevitable criminal element. Whether you’re planning a holiday getaway or staying at home, ensuring the safety of your property is paramount to KSS.

Here are some practical tips for both home and business security during this holiday season.

Home security tips
House sitter or Trusted Neighbour: Consider gating a house sitter er ask your neighbour to open and close curtains., creating the illusion of an occupied home. They can also take care of your pets for you.

Alarm system: Ensure your alarm system covers all access points., is user-friendly and linked to Alarm, the KSS APP or your cell phone for remote control.

Armed Response: Invest in KSS Armed Response services to ensure immediate assistance so as not to endanger or inconvenience your keyholder.

CCTV system: install visible exterior CCTV cameras as a deterrent and for potential crime documentation. You can also monitor these from your cell phone wherever you may be.

Reduce Hiding Places: Trim bushes and foliage around your property te eliminate potential hiding places for criminals.

Assess Access Points: Check for vulnerable windows and ensure security gates are robust. Make sure all visible items are not Ieft lying around or visible from the roadside.

24/7 Technical support: KSS has a 24/7 technical security support on email for immediate assistance with alarm, CCTV camera, electric fence, and gate issues.

Stay Vigilant in Holiday Mode: Be mindful of open. doors and security gates, even when in a relaxed holiday mode.

Inform Security Company: Notify KSS er your security provider about your absence. Also ensure that alternative contact numbers are given so that the correct people can be contacted in your absence.

Business Security Tips
Conduct a Security Assessment: Evaluate lighting. locks. windows, doors. parking lots and alarm systems.

Deterrent Measures: Implement adequate lighting, high - quality locks and reinforce entry points. CCTV cameras and additional guarding are also an option. Please note that KSS are happy to check and ensure that your buddilock and remotes are also in working order.

Surveillance and Parking Lots: Maintain well-lit parking lots with proper surveillance.

Staff Training: Regularly inspect and educate staff on alarm systems and take precautions against weather related issues.

Going Away:
Pre-Travel Security Checklist (Approx. 3 weeks prior): Test your alarm system. replace back up batteries, repair electric fences and confirm signals are being received by the security company. Make sure your CCTV cameras are working and recording.

1 Week Before Departure: Trim foliage around electric fences and any other hiding places along the fence line. Inform KSS and or community patrol about your absence. Advise KSS about any temporary keyholder information.
Be security conscious even while you are away!

By implementing these security measures, both at home and your business. you can enjoy a safer and more secure holiday season. Stay vigilant, communicate with KSS or your security provider and take proactive steps to protect your property and loved ones.

For ANY Security and Electronic System Assistance: Contact Knight Security Solutions on 033 330 5911 anytime day and knight.

Wishing you all a safe and blessed holiday season.

Kind Regards
Gary and the dedicated KSS Team

Understanding the Power of Ozone Therapy

Whether you are an athlete or suffer from poor health, taking care of yourself can be stressful, and confusing. Insufficient cellular oxygen and inflammation are major causes of poor health, and oxygen delivery is fundamental to producing energy, healing and keeping fit. Many people are opting for more natural and holistic treatments for low immunity, regular colds and flu, autoimmune diseases, and so on. Ozone therapy is one of the methods that has peen shown to increase and improve the body's oxygen utilisation, creating a healthier environment that boosts the mmune system and supports normal cell function.

When ozone is introduced into the body, a remarkable thing happens. It stimulates the mitochondria in your cells ten times more efficiently than ordinary oxygen. You can consume oxygen, but if your body is not using it efficiently, it is wasted Efficient oxygen utilisation is imperative forimproving and maintaining a healthy state.

Ozone therapy is the most advanced oxygen-based treatment available. It provides powerful healing effects that regular oxygen therapy your immune system, and enjoy better overall health.

• Ozone stimulates the production of white blood cells. These cells protect the body from viruses, bacteria, fungo and cancer.
• 
  Ozone is a potent regulator of the immune system. This means that when the immune system is overactive, as in autoimmune disease, ozone will calm it down. Conversely, when the immune system is underactive, as in cancer, ozone will stimulate it.
• 
  Ozone has an alkalising effect on the body. Disease thrives in an acidic environment.
• 
  Ozone can reduce inflammation and pain.
• 
  Oxygen delivery is increased, blood and lymph are detoxified, and circulation is increased throughout the body.

While ozone works to reduce inflammation, detox, and modulate your immune system, Thermography, or Clinical Thermal lmaging, is used to find inflammation. It is a test of risk factors and detects physiological changes in the body. Changes in a body's physiology precede changes in the anatomy.

Thermography is 100% safe. There is no radiation, pain or compression involved. It is a highly sensitive method to assess all risk factors in your current breast and body health. You can visually monitor the results of your treatment and preventive plans in real time. It isa way to decide whether to stay the course or make adjustments.

While Ozone and Thermography are separate methods, both work hand-in-hand if you are looking for more holistic practises to monitor your health and well-being.

"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." - Benjamin Franklin.

LYNNE is a Certified Clinical Thermographer and Ozone Practitioner with 16 years' experience. She is based in Hilton and runs her own clinic, specialising in drug-free therapies for pain, injury, and disease.

Contact 082 828 6778

Visitors and locals in the Midlands are in for a rare musical treat this festive season as internationally acclaimed bluesman Doc MacLean performs live at The Knoll Historic Guest Farm. Known for his raw, intimate storytelling and unmistakable Delta blues sound, MacLean brings his celebrated Dark Horse Blues tour to Hilton for one night only.

Armed with his vintage 1935 National guitar, MacLean delivers performances that are equal parts music and lived experience - “bare knuckles, secret stories,” as he calls them. His songs carry the weight of journeys across continents and decades: stories hidden inside melodies, forgotten in the corners of old theatres, or hummed in the quiet hours while waiting for a distant train.

Tracing its roots to the Mississippi Delta - and before that, to Africa - the blues MacLean performs is more than a genre. It is a tradition passed down “from mouth to mouth,” a vessel for human spirit and shared memory. His early mentors were themselves grandchildren of enslaved people, linking his music directly to the origins of the blues. MacLean’s performances move along the “dreamscapes and songlines” of a life spent on the road, between blurred highways and the rhythmic hum of wheels.

About Doc MacLean:
The son of a civil rights lawyer and a fiddle player, MacLean was immersed in music and activism from a young age. By his early teens he was performing harmonica and washboard in coffeehouses and at festivals, with frequent appearances on radio and television. In 1972 he formed a duo with fellow young musician Colin Linden—now a Grammy-nominated producer and recent guitarist for Bob Dylan. Together they opened for legendary artists including Sonny Terry & Brownie McGee, Muddy Waters, and John Hammond, cementing MacLean’s place in the lineage of American blues.

EVENT DETAILS
Venue: The Knoll Historic Guest Farm
Date: Friday, 19 December 2025
Time: Doors open at 6:00 PM | Show starts at 7:00 PM
Tickets: R160
Bookings: WhatsApp 082 331 7271

Where can you meet with friends, and enjoy great music in a beautiful environment with roaring fires, hearty food and a cash bar – all for just R50? Spring evenings in the hills are alive with music — and while the nights are warming, we’ll still have the fires lit and the welcome waiting. Come join us for another night of heartfelt performances, local flavour, and the unique magic of MiTH.

MiTH – 3 December 2025

Venue: The Knoll Historic Guest Farm

Entrance: R50.00 (Cash or Zapper at the Door)

Info: 082 331 7271

8pm D&T
D&T is an acoustic-pop duo powered by the silky, arresting vocals of Dominic Momberg and the multi-instrumental mastery of Tom Watkeys. United by a simple philosophy - write good songs and produce them beautifully - they craft organic, melody-rich music that feels effortless while carrying the emotional weight of a story in every line.

Both artists bring significant experience to the partnership. D&T have performed at Splashy Fen (multiple years) and opened for The Parlotones on a national South African tour. Dominic reached the Top 10 of Idols SA (Season 4), while Tom has toured Europe as a session musician for the lead singers of The Parlotones and Prime Circle, and completed UK and European tours as part of Braai Army. Their music has resonated widely, amassing 500,000+ Spotify streams and steadily growing as more listeners discover their rich, acoustic-driven sound.

Their influences span modern storytellers and acoustic pop trailblazers, including John Mayer, Dan + Shay, The Maine, Matt Nathanson, Rascal Flatts, and Brandi Carlile – all artists whose emotional honesty and melodic instincts echo through D&T’s sound.

7pm - The Stuarts
Reg and Lorna Stuart have been performing as a duo in various restaurants, pubs and hotels for close to forty years, featuring Reg on guitar, flute and vocals and Lorna on bass and vocals. Their musical style encompasses elements of folk, country, blues, jazz, reggae and soft rock. Their musical influences are derived from diverse sources including Eric Clapton, Michael Franks, Bob Dylan, and more recently from their son, Rowan Stuart.

ABOUT MiTH
KZN Midlands’ favourite music venue! MiTH is a platform for beginners, pros, and music lovers to celebrate the joy of music. Every second Wednesday at The Knoll Historic Guest Farm, Hilton.

Food and soft drinks for sale. Cash bar available.

Info: 082 331 7271

Visit www.mith.co.za for more info 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 5.2km 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.

Team South Africa returned to the country with six medals after concluding a successful four-day campaign at the Strongest Athletes Swimming Cup in Minsk, Belarus over the weekend. The team of four also produced several personal bests and strong placements across multiple events at the short-course (25m) meet.

Scarlett le Roux contributed two medals to the impressive haul after securing silver in the 800m freestyle in a new personal best time of 8 minutes 54.3 seconds. The Benoni swimmer also swam a career-best time of 4:18.33 in the 400m freestyle to claim the bronze. Le Roux just missed out on a third medal in the 200m freestyle, finishing fourth in another PB of 2:02.33.

“The Belarusian Swimming Cup was my first time racing against Europeans and competing in that kind of environment, and it was honestly incredible,” said an enthusiastic Le Roux afterwards.

“The meet was so beautifully organised, the atmosphere was electric, and the facility itself was breathtaking. Our team was small, but unbelievably talented.”

Le Roux added that even she was pleasantly surprised by her medal-winning performances, paying tribute to her three teammates.

“My results were nothing like what I expected – in the best way. The medals were a complete surprise, and I’m genuinely proud of myself. I learned so much from my teammates, who have so much more experience than I do, and I truly think their guidance played a huge role in how I performed,” added the 17-year-old.

One of those teammates was Matthew Caldwell who also emerged as another of the standout performers, securing three bronze medals – in the 400m freestyle (3:46.3), 800m freestyle (7:54.97) and 1500m freestyle, dipping under the 15-minute mark with a PB of 14:59.16. Caldwell also advanced to the final of the 200m individual medley, where he finished fifth and the 100m freestyle, finishing eighth in 49.90 seconds.

“I’m very happy with all the results,” he said afterwards, explaining he headed into the meet untapered. “I was very proud of myself for swimming such good times, especially with the condition my body was in… I’m excited to see what more my body can do.”

Sprint specialist Jessica Thompson captured the country’s other bronze medal in the 50m freestyle, stopping the clock at 24.75 seconds. The 18-year-old Joburg swimmer also featured prominently in the finals of two additional events, placing fourth in both the 50m butterfly (26.0) and 50m backstroke (26.99).

“Our team did really well… Jarden, Matt and Scarlett got huge PBs in their races, so it was so incredible seeing how well they were doing,” said Thompson, giving special praise to Le Roux at her first senior international meet.

“Seeing her step up and get on the podium twice was really so incredible and Matt also getting on the podium three times, it was really awesome.”

In the butterfly events, national short course champion Jarden Eaton delivered a string of personal bests. He finished just off the 200m butterfly podium, after touching fourth in 1 minute 58.1 seconds while also setting new PBs of 52.29 in the 100m butterfly and 23.82 seconds in the 50m butterfly.

Team SA’s campaign was rounded off by a strong relay showing, with the 4x50m mixed freestyle team finishing a competitive fifth in a tightly contested final.

Top image: L to R Coach Doug Erasmus, Eaton, Caldwell, Le Roux and Thompson

South African Landmark Project Set To Transform Tourism Landscape

In the heart of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, something extraordinary is taking root. Today, Brahman Hills officially broke ground on what is set to become the world’s largest labyrinth, a 22-hectare masterpiece that will anchor its new Serenity Garden and redefine South African eco-tourism.

But this isn’t the beginning of a garden story. It’s the next chapter.

Brahman Hills is already home to an internationally acclaimed, Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Partner Garden, one of only two in Africa. Its 26 garden rooms, wild meadows, and forest walk have drawn global recognition and awards, from visiting horticulturalists to nature lovers and wedding parties. And the proposed Serenity Garden is about taking this magic and amplifying it.

Traditionally used in spiritual rituals and healing spaces, labyrinths feature a single, winding path inward to a central point and out again, offering a purposeful, meditative journey. “But we’re not only building a labyrinth,” says Orrin Cottle, CEO of Brahman Hills. “We’re deepening our roots, investing in our country, and creating a living wonder that invites the world to experience sustainable travel unlike any other.”

Inspired by sacred geometry and ancient walking meditations, Cottle explains that the labyrinth will weave through a curated landscape of indigenous plant life, art, sculpture, and stillness - an invitation to beauty, serenity and discovery.

“The Serenity Garden will become a space of healing, reflection, and reconnection with nature, complementing Brahman Hills’ existing eco-conscious offerings,” he notes. “It is also a major investment in local tourism, job creation, and community upliftment, bringing new energy to the Zulu Kingdom and shining a spotlight on the Midlands as a world-class destination.”

With plans laid and permissions finalised, construction has begun, and so is the dream! Once complete, Brahman Hills will invite Guinness World Records to verify the labyrinth’s status as the largest in the world.

For the founder of Brahman Hills, Iain Buchan, the project is deeply personal. “This is more than a garden or a tourism site. It’s a tribute to South Africa; to our beauty, our potential, and our people,” he says. “We believe in creating places that not only attract the world but inspire those who call this land home.”

From tranquil gardens that began with a vision, to a sanctuary that may make history, Brahman Hills is creating something remarkable. And is set to enchant once more.

Treverton College staff member joins ops team putting together for world first Obstacle Course Race (OCR) hosted in Antarctica.

Worlds Iconic is a South African owned Dubai based Events company that aims to connect adventure seekers with epic destinations and story-worthy activities across the globe.

The latest of these is a world first, that being an Obstacle Course Race (OCR) hosted in Antarctica!

Worlds Iconic put together an operations team to build and facilitate this “exploration“ into new realms for OCR Events. Among this small team is Travis Hesom, a resident of Mooi River, KZN and an employee of Treverton College. He made the 30 hour trip in to the frozen continent through Punto Arenas, Chile. Antarctic Logistics and Expeditions (ALE), who is the logistics partner for the event is the most experienced operator in this area and have over the years supported countless pioneers in their own rights.

The route for this iconic Obstacle Course Race will utilise the snow tracks around Union Glacier Camp in the shadow of Mount Rosso and comprises of 10km in total and 10 obstacles the athletes must negotiate. These include a multi-rig with monkey bars and later on, rings, balance beams, off-set steps, island jumps, cargo net and true to the environment, a sled pull, ice carry and soft snow section.

The event will wait for the best weather window between the 9th and 12th of December and will see athletes line up from the USA, UK and Switzerland.

Treverton College is no stranger to Antarctica. In 2023 Kai Broom the Treverton head boy was one of 12 students chosen for the Matrics in Antarctica expedition.

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

Image above: Travis Hesom Treverton College and the Old Trevertonians' Association (OTA), Marketing and Alumni Officer.

Below clockwise from top left: Trevor the Treverton College School mascot travels to Antarctica
One of the obstacles ready to go into place... It will be used twice, first for rings and then as monkey bars
Start and finish photo area being set up with ice carving under way
An overview of the route and the obstacles.

As the world comes together to recognise International Animal Rights Day on the 10th of December, the Animal Anti-Cruelty League (AACL) Durban is urging the public to take meaningful action to protect the welfare and dignity of animals. This global observance serves as a vital reminder that animals are sentient beings deserving of care, respect, and protection.

The holiday season is often a difficult period for companion animals. Many pets are abandoned, left without adequate care while their owners travel, or given as impulsive gifts that later become unwanted burdens. AACL Durban is intensifying its campaign to ensure that individuals think responsibly before buying or gifting a pet.

AACL Durban Chairman, Dr. Lawson Caine, issues a heartfelt appeal:

“I encourage people to really think before giving a pet. Make sure you have the means and time to give that animal the love and care it deserves.”

To support responsible pet guardianship, AACL Durban emphasizes adherence to the internationally recognised Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare, which guide compassionate and humane treatment of all animals:

1. Freedom from hunger and thirst

2. Freedom from discomfort

3. Freedom from pain, injury, and disease

4. Freedom to express normal behaviour

5. Freedom from fear and distress

“When people apply the Five Freedoms to the animals they care for, we ensure that they have a better life, which often makes our own lives better,” adds Dr. Caine.

AACL Durban works tirelessly throughout the year to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals in need across the greater Durban area. In recognition of International Animal Rights Day, the organisation is inviting the public to support its efforts through donations that directly fund veterinary care, shelter, and outreach programmes.

How You Can Help
Members of the community can honour this important day by making a financial contribution to AACL Durban. Every donation—no matter the size—helps bring kindness, safety, and hope to thousands of animals.

For more information or to donate, please contact the Animal Anti-Cruelty League™ Durban:

Contact Bronwyn Ablett on 0828563923 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Website: https://www.aacl.co.za/branches-durban-pietermaritzburg/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AACLDurban

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aacl_dbn/

About AACL Durban
The Animal Anti-Cruelty League™ Durban is one of South Africa’s longest-standing and most trusted animal welfare organisations. Through rescue services, veterinary support, education programmes, and community outreach, AACL Durban is committed to building a more humane and compassionate world for animals.

Image above by Val Adamson: Nomathembu Gumede, animal handler and volunteer Rachel Rabie at the Durban and Pietermaritzburg branch of the Animal Anti-Cruelty League (AACL).

As we come to the end of yet another year I would like to thank each and everyone of you for your continued loyal support during 2025.

Without you I cannot do my work - so here is a heartfelt THANK YOU!!!

Please receive the December specials below.

I am closing shop on the 23rd December and will be back continuing our journey together on the 12th January.

Be abundantly blessed, travel safely and return refreshed.

Merry Christmas blessings to you all.

Kris

072 891 3294

Own 2026 before it even starts! Big dreams need a solid plan. Whether you’re mapping out an empire or just keeping life on track, a fresh diary is your first step to success.

A4: For the master plans and desk warriors.
A5: For the movers, shakers, and on-the-go makers.

Turn "one day" into "Day One". Grab yours now and get ready to crush it!

Visit PostNet at 39 Hilton Avenue, Hilton, Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa, 3245

Telephone+27 (0)86 006 1004

Cell:+27(0)81 405 0768 WhatsApp only

Company Annual Aquatics Awards at the Southern Sun OR Tambo on Saturday night to honour the athletes, coaches and volunteers who excelled in the past season.

Pieter Coetzé was named Male Swimmer of the Year after a standout season highlighted by a trio of backstroke medals at the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, including a memorable gold in the 100m backstroke. His performances, backed by multiple African records, reinforced his status as one of South Africa’s most promising Olympic prospects.

On the women’s side, Kaylene Corbett was awarded Female Swimmer of the Year following her breakthrough bronze in the 200m breaststroke at the same championships. It was a first major international medal for the two-time Olympic finalist.

Water polo also took centre stage, with Mitchell Garreau and Boati Motau (Top image) receiving the awards for Male and Female Water Polo Players of the Year. Motau was part of the South African team that competed at the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore earlier this year.

“To be given this is the highest honour. It just shows all the hard work that I’ve been putting into the sport and all the love, blood, sweat and tears,” said a thrilled Motau. “So I’m really honoured and grateful, but this isn’t only for me. It’s also for my family and teammates.”

Bailey Heydra was honoured as Diver of the Year after a season marked by steady progression. The US-based diver finished 29^th in the 3m springboard event at the world championships and secured 14^th spot in the synchronised 3m springboard event along with partner Zalika Methula.

Tayla-Jade van Huyssteen was named Artistic Swimmer of the Year, while African champion Callan Lotter and Connor Buck were honoured as the female and male Open Water Swimmers of the Year.

Kris Mihaylov (Bottom LHS) was recognised as Most Promising Athlete of the Year, after storming to 200m butterfly gold at the World Junior Championships in Romania earlier in the year.

“I’m honoured and grateful. We’ve worked hard so I’m just happy to reflect that and see how far I’ve come,” said Mihaylov.

Speaking about his podium-topping performance in Romania, the 18-year-old added: “It was surreal. It’s something you’ve dreamed of when you were a little kid but at the end of the day it’s actually just the start, and this is just a great motivating factor for me and more will come for sure.”

The hotly contested Aquatics Personality of the Year, which was decided by public vote, went to Para swimmer Aaron Putz, who edged out Heydra and Erin Gallagher for the award.

After a year marked by several more world-record performances, Minke Janse van Rensburg was named Female Para Swimmer of the Year, while Christian Sadie was awarded the Male Para Swimmer of the Year accolade after returning from the World Para Swimming Championships with a silver and two bronze medals, along with several new continental records.

Meanwhile, Rocco Meiring (Bottom RHS) was named Coach of the Year after guiding both Coetzé and Corbett to global medal performances. Meiring’s efforts at the University of Pretoria continue to provide a major contribution towards South Africa’s high-performance pipeline, with TUKS also being named Club of the Year.

“I’m humbled. As I said, I’m not the coach of the year. I’m representing a coaching staff that are as much part of the award as anybody else,” said Meiring afterwards.

“I’m very happy for the swimmers. We haven’t had a Swimming South Africa awards ceremony for many years and I think that’s important for the swimmers to be acknowledged, especially by their own federation and that’s a very important aspect that I think they’ve done well,” added Meiring whose focus in the new year for his high-performance swimmers will be the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Fish Eagles, led by Gail Bohler, earned Club Development of the Year for their impact in community-driven programmes while additional honours were presented to the administrators, instructors, volunteers and media professionals who made an invaluable contribution to the sport in the last year.

CEO of Bombela Concession Company, André van Rensburg, said: “At Bombela, we believe that success is most meaningful when it is shared. That is why we are the proud title sponsor of Swimming South Africa – supporting the development of young athletes and the promotion of healthy, active lifestyles across the country.

“Together, we are investing in a future where talent is recognised, communities are uplifted, and every young swimmer has the opportunity to dream boldly and achieve confidently. We are keenly following your progress and look forward to sharing in the many victories still to come.

“In saying that, we also recognise the tremendous effort of the team behind these athletes, from the administration to the coaches. Without this team, there can be no victories. We have come to know many of them personally and we are inspired by their dedication and passion for this sport.”

President of Swimming South Africa Alan Fritz added: “The resumption of the Swimming South Africa Bombela Concession Company Annual Awards is a fundamental that underpins the success of the federation.

“The past year has undoubtedly been the best season of SSA since our re-admission into world sports in 1992. Our athletes are most certainly leading the country’s charges for podium performances regionally, continentally, internationally, and at the pinnacle of sport, the Olympic Games.

“The Annual Awards are about recognising those who strive for excellence in the pool and administratively. Swimming South Africa salutes all recipients of awards. Our goal is to create an environment that allows them to achieve even greater performances.

“Bombela Concession Company’s partnership with SSA is a clear alignment of organisational goals and values, and we are extremely proud of what we have achieved together as a federation and a corporate sponsor.”

Award winners:

• Male Swimmer of the Year: Pieter Coetzé
• Female Swimmer of the Year: Kaylene Corbett
• Aquatics Personality of the Year: Aaron Putz
• Male Para Swimmer of the Year: Christian Sadie
• Female Para Swimmer of the Year: Minke Janse van Rensburg
• Female Water Polo Player of the Year: Boati Motau
• Male Water Polo Player of the Year: Mitchell Garreau
• Diver of the Year: Bailey Heydra
• Artistic Swimmer of the Year: Tayla-Jade van Huyssteen
• Male Open Water Swimmer of the Year: Connor Buck
• Female Open Water Swimmer of the Year: Callan Lotter
• Coach of the Year: Rocco Meiring
• Junior Coach of the Year: David Glover
• Club of the Year: TUKS
• Most Promising Athlete of the Year: Kris Mihaylov
• Administrator of the Year: Janet van Huyssteen
• Club Development of the Year: Fish Eagles (Gail Bohler)
• Instructor of the Year: Vani Govender
• Volunteer of the Year: Princess Xaba
• Journalists of the Year: David Isaacson (Print), Ongeziwe Mjana (Radio), Siphokazi Malinga (TV)

We want to make you all aware of a worrisome uptick in Feline Panleukopenia (FPV - also known as Feline Parvo Virus) cases in our area. Several confirmed cases have been reported, and this highly contagious and potentially fatal viral disease is a serious threat to unvaccinated cats, especially kittens.

What is Feline Panleukopenia?
FPV is a severe viral illness that affects cats, especially kittens and unvaccinated cats. It spreads easily through contact with infected animals, contaminated environments, or even people’s clothing or shoes.

Vaccination is the best protection
Kittens and cats that are unvaccinated, sick or immunocompromised are at higher risk of developing this disease, which can be fatal!
FP is usually a very aggressive and debilitating disease, with a mortality as high as 90% if left untreated.
Clinical signs include:
Lethargy | Loss of appetite | Fever | Dehydration | Diarrhoea (sometimes bloody).

We strongly recommend:
Ensuring all cats are fully vaccinated
Keeping young kittens indoors until fully vaccinated
Take precautions when encountering stray or sick animals
Washing hands and changing clothes after contact with unknown cats.

If you have questions, please reach out on our dedicated VET line: 064 671 8646. Dr Gatley-Roach will provide feedback during weekday office hours.

Tanglewood Nursery, the largest fuchsia nursery in the Province, started from humble beginnings as a backyard hobby in the early 1990's. This resulted in Tony Clark taking early retirement as a Deputy Director in the Department of Agriculture and pursuing his passion for growing quality plants on a full-time basis. In 2021 Tony and Carlene handed ownership over to Ben Scotcher.

Only tried and tested varieties, suitable for local conditions, are made available to local gardeners. The over 100 varieties of fuchsias are available as beautiful flowering bushes, hanging baskets and elegant standards.

The nursery has recently taken over a daylily nursery and has a wide selection of unusual daylilies available, plus some new varieties waiting to be named.

In addition, the nursery prides itself in its selection of unusual shrubs and perennials. An exciting blend of indigenous and exotic plants has been carefully selected to provide gardeners with a wide choice for every area of the garden.

If you are looking for quality plants at very reasonable prices, complemented by knowledgeable, personal advice, then a visit to Tanglewood Nursery is a must!

Ben recently launched The Plant Owl, an online shop for the nursery. Visit soon.

For locals and for garden lovers near or visiting Hilton, Tanglewood's Festive Sale begins on Friday 28 November. This is unmissable!!!

4th FLATFOOT ACCESS FESTIVAL 2025: 1 – 6 December 2025

Durban: FLATFOOT DANCE COMPANY, in partnership with Stable Theatre presents its fourth annual edition of the FLATFOOT ACCESS FESTIVAL, offering a week-long engagement of workshops, panel discussions, and performances from 1 to 6 December during the tail end of South Africa’s National Disability Rights Awareness Month (3 November - 3 December).

The festival celebrates FLATFOOT’s 22-year history of encountering disability through dance education and development work, and more recently in their professional development work.

“The journey toward access and professional training for dancers living with both intellectual and physical disabilities lies at the heart of this small ever-growing festival,” says FLATFOOT’s Artistic Director Lliane Loots. “It is an amazing moment of celebrating not just the incredible dancers, dance makers, and choreographers participating, but of the truly transformative power of dance to transform and bind our communities together”.

The festival always invites a special guest to run workshops and offer performances, and to push and support local integrated dance practices. In previous years the festival has hosted Sydney Erlikh (USA), Jürg Koch (Switzerland), Gladys Agulhas (South Africa), and in 2025 welcome Amanuel Solomon from Ethiopia. Based in Addis Ababa, Amanuel is a professional dancer and choreographer and founder of Katim Disability Dance, the first company in Ethiopia led by a disabled dancer. Katim is a mixed ability company that has performed at the National Theatre in Ethiopia, and run an integrated dance festival engaging intellectual disability, and dancers who are deaf, blind, and living with physical disabilities.

Amanuel joins the FLATFOOT ACCESS FESTIVAL to run workshops and also to perform a solo - “Who am I?” that journeys through an evocative portrayal of the four stages of human life, from birth to death using the elements of air, fire, water and earth as the guiding frame. Amanuel’s free access workshop will focus on sharing some of Ethiopia’s traditional and cultural dances . The workshop will be held at the Stable Theatre on Wednesday 3 December from 2 – 3.45pm. Places are limited so booking is essential via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Spicing up the festival for 2025, stalwart FLATFOOT dancers Sifiso Khumalo and Jabu Siphika have been challenged to use the festival week to create – and premiere - two short new works for the FLATFOOT dancers partnering with invited guest dancers Bheki Khotsolo and Amanuel Solomon (Ethiopia).

Look out for a new work from the 9-year-old integrated dance programme working with dancers with Down Syndrome who fondly call themselves the “FLATFOOT Downie Dance Company”. They perform alongside FLATFOOT in a work called “hold my heart” created by Lliane Loots in collaboration with all the dancers and is a dance journey that looks at what makes up friendships and our relationships.

Following the success of the Downie Company, the “FLATFOOT ACCESS PANTHERS” was started in 2023 to train the next generation of dancers with intellectual disabilities. This is now their third public performance, and together with the FLATFOOT company they perform a work called “We are Rising” inspired by Mayo Angelou’s poem “Still I Rise”.

The Festival has been made possible through the partnership with the eThekwini Municipality’s Stable Theatre, with support funding from the Oppenheimer Memorial Trust. The Festival acknowledges the African Dance Disability Network (ADDN) and their support and encouragement of disability and integrated dance work in South Africa and on the African continent.

Performances and workshops take place at The Stable Theatre 115 Johannes Nkosi (formerly Alice Street), Durban, and the two showcase performances take place on Friday, 5 December at 6pm and (repeat) Saturday 6 December at 2.30pm. Tickets are R85 (scholars/students @ R65). The Stable Theatre is wheelchair friendly and there is safe parking on site.

Bookings are through Webtickets:

https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1580082901

Caption: FLATFOOT Downie Dance Company
Photo by: Val Adamson