Dunkirk Estate Newsletter September 2023

meet the admin assistant

clubhouse manager’s newsletter

the spotted eagle owl proud sponsor

From the Estate Manager

Meet the Admin Assistant Manager

proud sponsor of the dunkirk newsletter

Disclaimer: This eMagazine is produced especially for residents of Dunkirk Estate to provide updates and useful information. It is produced by GLOVent Media & Fab Creative, on behalf of the Dunkirk Estate. Although every effort is taken to ensure accuracy of content, Dunkirk Estate HOA and/or the Publisher, cannot be held liable for any inaccurate information, and may not agree with all opinions expressed in this publication.

Dear Residents,

From the Estate Manager

What’s Happening @ Dunkirk

Well, another quarter has rolled around, and spring is in the air! There is so much on the go and happening around the Estate, as I’m sure you have noticed and will read about in the Clubhouse Manager’s newsletter. Everything is getting a spruce and facelift.

Forest Lane Park Area: The little park in Forest Lane is complete and the ladies with their young charges now have somewhere to sit that is safely off the road. It is also a lovely spot to sit and relax in the afternoons, with the duiker and bushbuck frequently enjoying the new grass and being much easier to spot in the clear area (the female

especially). If you sit quietly, they hardly even notice you’re there. The new monkey-proof lids on some of the bins are easier to use and seem to be working to reduce the litter strewn around those areas where they have been installed.

drive” all on its own, with our pair of bushbucks, duiker family, and band of mongoose that is so endearing and entertaining (although they are probably guilty of spreading more rubbish around than the monkeys!). The little critters are my favourite!

Wildlife: We certainly are lucky to have the full wildlife and bird complement that we do on this Estate, and the daily sightings are the favourite part of my day.

The office car park is a regular “game

Our game count is ending, and I will do my best to correlate all the info and photos sent in from everyone so we can get some idea of our antelope numbers. Then, we will put out our findings. Thank you ever so much to all the residents who have sent in photos and sightings. We have had an incredible

response and the feedback has been amazing!

Did you know that we even have some resident porcupines (at least one confirmed pair, possibly more)?

Bird Hide: The Bird Hide at Weaver Dam is complete so make a stop and enjoy our wonderful water bird visitors. We have also just had our bird list printed onto an easy-to-use, foldable pamphlet. Pop into the office to collect yours!

New Signage: We’ve introduced some new signage throughout the Estate to make things a little clearer. These signs provide important information and guidance, so please take a moment to observe them as you explore the

Estate. After many requests from visitors, we have allocated a handicapped parking area at Ray’s Kitchen. Please be considerate of those less able than yourself and leave it free for those folks who truly need it. There are also new walkway lights and pots at the entrance ramps. The garden will also be getting a sprucing up.

There is a new magnetic child-safe lock on the pool gate, with a sign on how it works, so no unaccompanied minors will be able to just wander in.

would like to encourage residents to get involved and plant more of these types of plants too.

Levies: For your convenience, and to help our accountants and cash flow, we are looking to implement debit orders for levies. I am sure you would have seen the notice go out, so if you haven’t already sent yours in, please go to this link and get on board!

Verges: We will continue our verge planting in earnest now that spring is here. We want to plant more buck-friendly “food plants”. So, rather than planting everything they don’t eat that looks untouched, let’s provide more for them (as they are in a contained space). We are putting together a preferred “buckfriendly” plant list which we will make available. We

Please look out for info on our upcoming AGM on the 26th of October. There are some exciting projects in the pipeline that we need your support for.

Til next time…

Natasha Strong Estate Manager

Clubhouse Manager’s Newsletter

Imust firstly apologise once again for all the recent disruptions, but

I’m excited about the end result and I’m sure you are too. As we move out of winter, with each bloom and warm breeze, we’re reminded of the beauty that surrounds us and the wonderful community that continues to inspire us. Here's a glimpse

into the recent updates and upcoming events that make our Estate and facilities even more special.

BCH Stairs Restoration

Complete: We're thrilled to announce that the maintenance work on the Beach Club stairs is now complete! The team from Ocean Decking

has restored the stairs to their former glory, ensuring safe and convenient access to the upper level. Your safety and comfort are our top priorities.

patience and understanding as we work to provide you with the best facilities possible.

the beauty of our beaches and surroundings.

BCH Roofing Progress: By the time we publish this article, the roof will be complete, but it was not without some challenges. The team from WACS Waterproofing Solutions has ensured we do not have to worry about this again for many years to come. Completion of this project did require an extra two weeks and we appreciate your

BCH Lawn Rehabilitation and Painting: The Beach Club’s lawn is currently undergoing a rejuvenation process to keep it vibrant and inviting, just in time for spring. This may take several months, so please bear with me and Jaluka Landscaping as I try to avoid the use of more paving. We've also completed the painting work, giving the club a fresh and natural look that mirrors

Club House Updates: The sauna and swimming pool at the Club House have been receiving some well-deserved attention. We're pleased to report that these areas are looking fantastic and ready for you to relax and unwind. Our team has been working hard to maintain the high standards you've come to expect from us. Some of this work was also done by a resident who delivered a great result when circumstances and

the environment were very difficult to work with. Thanks to Chris!

chef assisting with catering.”

Exciting Events Ahead: Get ready for some unforgettable moments at the Beach Club!

We have a lineup of exciting events that will surely add a touch of magic to your springtime calendar, from a “Dad and Lads games on the beach (weather permitting) to an enchanting “Art Expo”, early next year, showcasing local talents and a delightful “Wine Tasting” with a surprise

Don’t miss the opportunity to register for surf ski berths. There's something for everyone to enjoy. Keep an eye on our social media channels and in-app messages for more details.

We're dedicated to continuously improving your clubhouse experience and keeping your social calendar buzzing with memorable events. As always, your feedback and suggestions are invaluable to us. If you have

any questions or concerns, please feel free to come have a coffee with me or reach out to one of the other friendly management staff. Thank you for your continued support, and we can't wait to see you enjoying our pristine shores, exciting events, and all the top-notch amenities that we have here at Dunkirk!

Sunny regards,

Meet the AdMin AssistAnt Elaine

Webster

Tell me about yourself. I was born and raised in KwaDukuza on the North Coast. I had the privilege of living in Cape Town, embarking on a journey to find myself for most of my twenties. I am a mom to three beautiful kiddos, Ella (six years old), Eli (10 years old) and my newborn Ewan. I have 17 years of working experience in both the public and private sectors with a vast range of academic achievements, from business management, legal, marketing, and communications to human resources. My last employment was at Simbithi Eco Estate working in marketing and communications, which was a fantastic experience and has equipped me to take on the challenge of being part of the family at Dunkirk Estate with much pride and honour. I am a fast learner

and always want to learn new things. I have a positive attitude and always look for the good in every situation. I am a great communicator and have good interpersonal skills. I am also a very creative person. My hobby is exploring culture and acquiring new skills. I’m currently taking jazz lessons and loving it!

What’s your favourite adrenaline-filled activity? Action-packed activities like swimming with sharks, bungee jumping, sky diving and rafting get my heart rate going. It’s nerve-wracking, yet totally awesome at the same time. Why? When you sign up for an activity that challenges you, your body produces lots of adrenaline and dopamine.

What is the best way to start your day?

My day starts with my alarm clock going off at 4:30 a.m., taking a few minutes to pray and be grateful for all I have. I am a very busy mom, and my mornings are super busy - getting the kids sorted for school, getting the baby sorted for day school, and then quickly sorting myself out before leaving at 6 a.m. That’s a workout on its own but quite a good feeling for me as I miss my angels throughout the day.

What do you like to do outside of work?

Spending quality time with my family. I enjoy having a picnic at a local park, long beach walks, braaiing and cooking with the family.

and bunny chows to chop and pap cook-offs. How do you feel about working in Dunkirk Estate? It has been an amazing start thus far. Dunkirk Estate is a family made up of amazing individuals from all walks of life. It is the most beautiful, spectacular Estate. I love the unparalleled beauty of Dunkirk Estate’s coastal forest, where nature and luxury come together to create the ultimate living and working experience.

What do you like the most about the North Coast? The sunny skies, the warm weather, and the diversity and culture, from our braais

The benefit of using the facilities such as the Club House and Beach Club is incredible! During my breaks, I spend time sitting at the Weaver’s Nest Dam and park, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of the pond and the fresh air, which immediately changes my mood to happy thoughts.

WORDS LuKE ALLEN

The SpoTTed Eagle Owl

It is very rarely these days that we hear of wildlife benefitting from man’s interventions. However, the quicker those adapt to the change humans bring to our environment, the better the future of the species.

One such example of this is the spotted eagle owl. For many years, we have been privileged enough to have a pair frequent our Estate on a regular basis. Being one of the larger owl species in the subregion, one would think that it would require large, undisturbed areas with plenty of large prey. However, in the last 50 years, this species has adapted remarkably well. Due to their ability to nest in a variety of habitats, the use of buildings for nesting has become very common. Along with increased human settlement comes food, and with that… rats! Rats are the dominant prey of the spotted eagle owl. These eagles are also highly opportunistic and will even

prey on large insects attracted to our lights. Just these few factors owe hugely to their growing success as a species in urban areas. They are a vital part of our semi-urban ecosystems and probably the largest contributor to controlling rat populations! A perfect example of human and wildlife co-existence.

If you would like to join the Dunkirk Bird and Wildlife WhatsApp group, please contact me at 079 434 0208. You can also follow me on Instagram (@luke_bird_whisperer) if you would like to see more of my bird photography from within KZN and other surrounding areas in SA.

Learning from FreeMe Wildlife

We had the privilege of hosting FreeMe Wildlife on 28 June 2023 at Ray’s Kitchen. The CEO, Wade Whitehead, who has over 31 years of experience in wildlife, gave the residents a talk about “Spots in the Long Grass”. The turnout was an absolute success.

Midlands. It’s a rehabilitation facility equipped for the medical treatment and ongoing care of patients, with the goal of successfully rehabilitating them back into their natural environment.

FreeMe Wildlife is a centre for sick, injured, or orphaned wildlife situated near Howick in the KwaZulu-Natal

Thank you for your utmost support and donations to FreeMe Wildlife. We really appreciate it. Till we meet again at our next environmental talk…

Dunkirk Women in Business

Catherine Gibson

Our family roots are planted in a small town called Palmar in Mauritius, where the dining table is the heart of our home. Family lunches extend to dinners and the table is always filled with friends, family, good food, and long stories.

I wanted to honour these memories (and I saw a need for bigger tablecloths). Palmar Collection came to life. Palmar Collection table linen is made out of 100% recycled cotton weave and produced locally here in KwaZulu-Natal. Our range of tablecloths comes in three different sizes to provide solutions for every table. Our range also includes napkins and table runners.

My vision for the Palmar Collection is to make beautiful table linen affordable, encouraging you to sit around your table and enjoy quality time together.

Lisa Twyman

Our interior design studio was established in 2007 and offers a turnkey solution to all interior projects with experience in residential, commercial, kitchen, bathroom, and exhibition stand design.

We have an absolute love for renovations and re-envisioning spaces and have had both our new builds and renovation work featured in numerous national and international publications.

The aim of the studio is to create interiors that evoke a sense of well-being, are uplifting, and are sensitive to both the client’s brief and the site.

They are considered functional spaces, where good design invokes excellent living.

www.lisatwyman.com

Nicole Kyte

My family and I moved down from Joburg five years ago and chose to make Dunkirk our home. We are in love with the incredible coastal lifestyle the Estate has to offer.

I am proud to be part of the Dwell Properties team, with my focus as the dedicated Sales and Rentals Specialist in Dunkirk. My love for the area, passion for helping and connecting people, and appreciation for architecture and interior design meant that my natural shift into the property industry made perfect sense. I love being part of the special community within this highly celebrated Estate.

nicole@dwellproperties.co.za

Insta Fun

Dunkirk residents are always having fun. Take a look for yourself.

The Bissets having an amazing time in the Berg

The Rule family enjoying the

We’re welcoming a baby boy - the Dunkirk family is growing

Special weekend in the bush at Makakatana with friends.

Day out at Shongweni with Janine and Annabel

TheElliotshavea winter’sdayatthe beach

The Pullens enjoying family time in the Midlands

We have a few exciting events

on the cards, however, the dates have not been confirmed yet. Be on the lookout for the following events and when they are set to happen:

sEptEMbEr 30th – KidS MarKeT day

octobEr 21st – dadS & LadS

octobEr 26th – aGM

octobEr 31st – TricK or TreaT

novEMbEr 8th – WiLdLife TaLK

novEMbEr 11th – Movie niGhT

dEcEMbEr 8th – chriSTMaS SanTa (preSenT drop off)

CORAL COVE IS BREAKING GROUND!

EXTRAORDINARY LIVING FOR THE BEST YEARS OF YOUR LIFE

We are delighted to announce that construction has commenced for Coral Cove. With the July 2023 commencement date, move-in dates for residents will be before the end of 2024. All garden villas, apartments, communal areas and care centre of Coral Cove will be operational and complete, affording residents the opportunity to utilise the full array of Auria’s facilities and services.

2

1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments

BOOK A TOUR OF OUR SHOW UNIT.

Sales Enquiries: 087 537 0539 | coralcove@auria.co.za | www.auria.co.za

Coral Cove by Auria Senior Living is a 21-hectare continuing-care, purpose-built retirement community for over 70’s, situated on the magnificent KZN North Coast, within the safety and serenity of the Zululami Luxury Coastal Estate.

& 3 Bedroom Garden Villas from R3,6m

from R1,69m

Staff Corner L

et me introduce you to Makhosini Mafuleka, who is not new to your eyes. Mafuleka has worked in Dunkirk Estate for six years. He started working for Servest, then moved to Ensure, and currently works for the HOA doing maintenance on the fence line. He has two sons and two daughters and resides in Shakas Head just to be closer to work, but his family home is in Jozini. Mafuleka is such a humble and family-orientated man, and you will forever find him in a good mood.

When you see him, please congratulate him on his new promotion.

PROUDLy SOUTH AFRiCAN

Andi shares South African-inspired quizzes and puzzles to keep your kiddos busy while learning more about our beautiful country.

iMportAnt nuMbErs