Simbithi Eco-Estate Magazine Autumn 2024

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From the Kitchen

As summer makes way for the delicious coolness of autumn, we managed to convince chef G to let us in on the secrets of the coconut Red curried Seafood Soup: the perfect autumn meal!

Golf

She might be reserved in person, but on the course... there's no holding Alet De Langen back! Swing into the Pro Shop to meet our new Pro.

meet the neighbours

hello, Jellimans! We spend a balmy afternoon with Redge, Jenna, the three kiddos and the family dog.

come up higher, into the tree canopies of Simbithi as we share our Birds of Simbithi book, recently published, with you.

Simbithi Management | Admin | enquiries@simbithi.com | 032 946 8360/1

Simbithi Country Club | Pro Shop | proshop@simbithi.com | 032 946 5407

Fig Tree Restaurant | 032 946 5403

Heron Pizzeria | 032 946 5423

Security | access@simbithi.com | 032 946 8372

Control Room | controlroom@simbithi.com | 032 946 8373/4/5

Visitor SMS Verification | text See to 31671 (or download Simbithi residential app: Search ‘Simbithi’ on App store or Google Play Store)

Website | www.simbithi.com

General Manager Simbithi Eco-Estate gm@simbithi.com

General Manager From the

Toward the end of last year, we had a new member join our team here at the HOA. He’s green, and he works from our garden.

Recently, he quietly found his way into our boardroom, where one of our staff found him patiently waiting for a meeting to begin. If you haven’t figured out his identity yet, he’s a chameleon, and the staff were quite enchanted by his appearance. Spotting him and observing him in his natural environment – literally on our doorstep – is another reminder of how fortunate we are to live, and work, in Simbithi. We have a great piece later in the magazine about the chameleons that have been seen out and about in Simbithi.

Speaking of being out and about, welcome home to everyone who travelled during the holidays. It’s great to have you back. While not entirely without incident, the festive season was quiet and well-managed. For this, we thank our dedicated security team who dutifully cared for our Estate.

December also brought an early Christmas present for us, our freshly

printed Birds of Simbithi book. This was a labour of love, creativity and hard work by a dedicated group of birders, photographers and publishers, pulling together the product we are now able to share. Copies are available at the Welcome Centre, if you have not seen it yet.

Looking ahead to this year, traditionally, we kicked off with the presentation of the 2024/25 budgets. Overviews of each budget have been shared, and if you have any further questions, you are welcome to get in touch with our finance team.

Our home and garden inspections continue through the first quarter of the year. I encourage homeowners to use this opportunity to look through the feedback from our team and engage on how to improve your property. Our doors are always open to assist and guide, wherever possible.

With that, I wish you and yours all the best for the year ahead.

Have a great autumn!

Marc Mc Clure

Editor From the

There are several things in this life that I am passionate about. In my first Ed’s Note for 2024, I’m going to share more about how I came to link two of them.

If you have read my musings for a while, and if you know me personally, you will know that I am a staunch advocate for kindness. It’s a value I am pedantic about. Now, if you know that about me… then, you will probably also know I have a slight obsession with clothing. Buying it, wearing it, staring at it, touching it (no, this isn’t creepy at all).

Of course, this is an expensive obsession to harbour – the clothing, not the kindness. And, yes, I am one of those women who stands in front of a heaving wardrobe and woefully proclaims she has nothing to wear. But, it was during my sustainable business practice module last year that I first began to understand how much my habit was damaging the planet. Fast fashion is a critical environmental threat, what with the exceptional amounts of clothing heading straight for a landfill.

Being a millennial, it was not too long after that I discovered the world of thrifting. I started off following a few accounts on social media and was quickly hauled into

the vortex of setting alarms for uploads, trawling through the stock and putting in my bid, then being utterly delighted when my parcels arrived.

Mostly, I enjoy paying considerably less for high-end items and wearing unique pieces not readily available in chain stores. Of course, working with an eco-conscious brand, I am smiling extra hard because I know thrifting is kind to the environment. Instead of perpetuating fast fashion, I am choosing to wear recycled clothing which would have otherwise ended up in a landfill.

Kindness can take many forms, as I have shared a few times. This year, I want to encourage you to be kind to the environment. Consider your choices: use the glass or bamboo straw, carry your own shopping bags, take your own coffee cup or smoothie bottle; you get the drift.

And, most of all, be kind to yourself. And, to others. If you see something wonderful on, or about, someone else: see it, say it. Sprinkle a little magic wherever you go!

Have a great year, Simbithi!

While every effort has been made to

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Club General Manager From the

With the rush of ‘season’ behind us, our Club team is excited about the year ahead and all the opportunities it will bring. To those who visited us during the festive season, our thanks to you for your patronage. We hope we helped you create lasting memories, and that the Club will continue to be your first choice this year.

The year started off with much excitement when we broke ground on the first phase of our Masterplan. Construction on the sports precinct is underway, as of mid-January. As I write this, we still have a few weeks of heavy machinery on site, and piling activity, before the sub-contractors begin their work. While the noise and dust may be an inconvenience now, the final product will surely be worth it. A reminder to be careful in the area as it is an active construction site.

Moving down to the course, it played beautifully during December; and I am sure those who had a game or two (or three) would agree! Work on reconstructing the bridge on hole

six, which was damaged toward the end of last year, will begin quite soon. By the time you read this, we should we well into our annual spring treatment. The golf calendar has been posted in the changerooms and on the Club’s notice boards, and we are busy! Check in with Dane, or Alet at the Pro Shop if you would like to book a tee time.

On the events front, we hosted a fantastic wine and food pairing with Chamonix Wines for Valentine’s Day. The wine evenings are popular, so make sure you book early if you would like to join us for these incredible events.

And, with March marking St Paddy’s Day, come and indulge in some good ol’ Irish fun on Saturday, 16 March 2024. We’ve got live music, themed food and of course, a good supply of Guinness.

Have a great autumn, and I will see you around at the Club.

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• Pool

• Study

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• Jojo

This exquisite home is an entertainer’s dream with open plan living on the ground floor where the kitchen, lounge and dining areas all blend into each other. The bar area looks out onto the expansive garden and pool area. All the finishes have been carefully considered and add to the modern style of this home.

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Simbithi

Snippets

A Round-Up of estate and club news

HAPPY HOUR, EVERY HOUR

We recently had some fun with our range of cocktails at the country club. how exceptional do these all look? trust us, they taste just as good.

Can You Be-Leaf It?

Well, yes. especially if you frequent the hOA building. A beautiful leaf insect relaxing in the afternoon sun in the staff carpark.

Oh, Hello There!

What an adorable visitor on the tamboti trail, snapped by Rebecca Oscroft. this cheeky little smile is a treat for the new year, indeed.

THREE, TWO, ONE, SMILE!

Our Fig tree Restaurant ladies looked gorgeous at our annual christmas eve lunch, christmas hats and all.

Santa? Santa, Is That You?

A Secret Santa was spotted visiting our officers at the main Gate during the christmas period. can you guess who’s behind the beard?

NOT A SILLY GOOSE

NEARLY THERE. ALMOST THERE.

the twinkling lights should give away the hour these photos were taken, of a slow, yet determined, gentleman making his way to the SeehOA boardroom. easy does it, old chap. We’re ready to meet with you when you arrive.

In Full Flower

if you are new to Simbithi, allow us to share this nugget of knowledge with you. And, if you have been here a while, then share in the joy of it with us. Our name, Simbithi, is a derivative of the Umsimbithwa, or Umzimbeet, tree. here it is, in full flower in Savanna.

Jeff Leaver found this Spur-Winged Goose in a rather unconventional sitting position near the Fish eagle Dam. Definitely not a silly goose!

Simbithi SniPPetS

Simbithi Diary

There is just so much to see and do on Simbithi Eco-Estate. Below is the Estate’s diary of upcoming events. Isn’t life great on Simbithi? You can also view the events on our Simbithi App or on our website: www.simbithi.com/events

Weekly Events

MONDAY NIGHT OFF

take a break from the kitchen and let us cook dinner. enjoy a delicious starter, main and dessert at the Fig tree Restaurant. Watch our weekly comms and gate screens for the menus.

TUESDAY CHEF'S SPECIAL

Our chefs straighten up their jackets and pull out the best for you every tuesday, with a range of exquisite specials. Watch our weekly comms and gate screens for the menus. booking essential: 032 946 5403

WEDNESDAY CURRY NIGHT indulge in the north coast's finest buffet: an array of fragrant curries with traditional sides. R220pp. booking essential: 032 946 5403

SUNDAY CARVERY

A sumptuous afternoon for the whole family. enjoy a selection of roasts with all the trimmings. R255pp. booking essential: 032 946 5403

MARCH

FIRSTIES

Live music on the deck, first Sunday of every month. Venue club deck Time 13:00 – 16:00. booking essential: 032 946 5403

ENVIRONMENTAL TALK

Venue Pavilion Time 18:00 – 19:00. For more information: 032 946 8382 or environmental@simbithi.com

BIG EGG HUNT

Spot the colourful eggs, snap your photo, and e-mail it to marketing@simbithi.com for a chance to win bragging rights and incredible prizes! For more information: marketing@simbithi.com

ANNUAL EASTER EGG HUNT

Venue Kingfisher community centre Time 09:00 - 12:00. For more information: 032 946 8386 or marketing@simbithi.com

APRIL

ENVIRONMENTAL TALK

Venue Pavilion Time 18:00 - 19:00. For more information: 032 946 8382 or environmental@simbithi.com

HAPPY 20TH BIRTHDAY SIMBITHI: A WEEKEND CELEBRATION

Watch our communication channels for our two-day celebration event to celebrate our 20th birthday! We have fun for the whole family.

MAY

ENVIRONMENTAL TALK

Venue Pavilion Time 18:00 - 19:00.

For more information: 032 946 8382 or environmental@simbithi.com

FIRSTIES

Live music on the deck. Venue club deck Time 13:00 - 16:00. booking essential: 032 946 5403

MAMA & ME MORNING

For more information: marketing@simbithi.com

Heat Pumps

seafood soup Coconut Red Curried

WORDS

There are certain dishes that are, quite simply, too ethereal to describe in words. This soup, a bowl of pure magic, is one of them. If you have sampled this silky creation, with its lashings of coconut, hints of spice and generously decadent seafood, then you could not possibly disagree. Executive Chef Godfrey Kinyanjui shares the recipe for our Coconut Red Curried Seafood Soup.

JODi chettY | PHOTOS chRiS ALLAn PhOtOGRAPhY

COCONUt ReD CURRIeD SeAFOOD SOUP

Ingredients

• 1 Tbsp vegetable oil

• 1 Tbsp grated fresh ginger

• 1 Tbsp fresh garlic

• 1/2 onion

• 1 stalk lemongrass (minced)

• 3 cans (small) coconut milk

• 2 cans cooking cream

• 1 Tbsp red curry paste

• 4 cups chicken stock (you may substitute with chicken stock powder)

• 2 red peppers, finely diced

• 1 tsp Hondashi (to taste)

• 500g king prawns

Method

1. Start by sweating the onion in a hot pot with the oil, then add ginger and garlic. When the onion is almost translucent, add the red curry paste, then stir in the lemongrass and the peppers. Cook for a while.

2. At this stage, add the prawns. You may add any other seafood

3.

pieces you like: at the Fig Tree, we add calamari and mussels. The prawns are a must, though! (A resident shared that they had used lobster and it turned out great). If you are adding calamari, note that we grill it separately and add into the soup just before we serve. Prawns and mussels are braised in the soup.

Add the chicken stock (I actually prefer the chicken stock powder). Pour your coconut milk in at just about the same time as the cooking cream. Then, let the soup simmer. This must be done before your prawns are fully cooked. These need to cook in the cream so all the flavour is released fully.

4.

Add Hondashi to taste, as the soup simmers. This is the secret ingredient in this soup.

5.

5. Finish off with grated parmesan (optional). This will help you achieve a beautiful, thick consistency.

Chef G’s tips

• Salt is not necessary, as Hondashi is already quite salty.

• The measurements here are simply a guideline. As you cook the soup, taste it to adjust according to your preference. For example, the red curry paste and lemongrass gives the soup a gentle “sting”. When you add these ingredients, taste to ensure the heat is to your liking. If you find the soup too hot, add a bit more cream. If you want to increase the heat, add in more curry paste.

• Serve the soup with toasted ciabatta, as we do in the Fig Tree. There is simply nothing better than mopping up the last of the soup with crunchy slivers of bread (it is that good!)

Meet the Jellimans

Have you ever watched Full House? Or, Fuller House for those a little younger. The premise is much the same: a house filled with love, laughter and the slipslap of several pairs of little feet. If the Jelliman house on Sneezewood Crescent could speak, we are quite certain it would agree it fits this description! Say hello to the bubbly Jelliman family.

WORDS JODi chettY | PHOTOS chRiS ALLAn PhOtOGRAPhY

Jenna Jelliman is cheerful and wearing a smile, as always, when she says a welcoming hello. Her husband, Redge, pulls up a few moments later with Reggie (6) and Harvey (4), who is affectionately called the “hurricane”. One-year-old Jocelyn is enjoying an afternoon snooze.

As Harvey begins to recount the day, sharing his playground antics with Jenna while Redge pops in for a quick peck, Molly, the family dog, saunters casually by. It is then that Jenna notices her sons have arrived with a few buddies. “Our house is in a cul-de-sac,” Jenna explains, as she directs the buddies to their respective homes and the Jelliman children to get dressed. “So, the neighbourhood crew, as we call them, is always in and out of each other’s houses.”

Redge sits down next to Jenna and slings an arm around her. “We have enough children,” he jokes. “And, yet there are always more in our house, running

in and out.” Both he and Jenna are from large families, so they are used to the hubbub. When their families congregate, the crowd swells to nearly 60 people which is then affectionately named ‘The Jelliman Festival’.

Jenna and Redge were part of the whizzing Jo’burg lifestyle until a decade ago when they semigrated to the coast. “We chose the good life, because we wanted to live ten years longer,” Jenna, who was born in Durban, winks. “We met in Jo’burg and studied there, but when we began thinking of buying a house, we knew it would be here in Durban. Redge would be happiest living somewhere not wearing shoes,” she wrinkles her nose

“If we are not braaing, then we are playing tennis or swimming. We have swum in Kingfisher, Guineafowl, Heron and the Club’s swimming pools in a single day; it’s paradise!”

up at her husband. “So, it could never have been in Sandton!”

Redge’s parents had lived in Simbithi, calling Emoyeni home from the earlier years of development. This was the Jelliman’s first whisper of life in Simbithi. Almost nine years later, they could not envision themselves living anywhere else. “Of course, we are grateful for how secure Simbithi is,” Redge says. “And the environment is great for our children. We can have our neighbours over with their children, who are friends with ours, and live a full, free life without moving around too much.”

“We try not to ever leave Simbithi, if we’re honest,” Jenna laughs. “If we are not braaing, then we are playing tennis or swimming. We have swum

in Kingfisher, Guineafowl, Heron and the Club’s swimming pools in a single day; it’s paradise!”

With the Jelliman children in their socialite era, the family is also in the season of weekend parties, most recently a first birthday for Jocelyn at the Heron Community Centre, complete with flamingos and gorgeous weather.

Considering their home is just a road away from the golf course, it is hardly a surprise the Jellimans all

enjoy the good game. Though, Jenna admits that it was not a natural pathway for her: “My poor husband had patience teaching me, but we’re both avid golfers, now. Any gap we get, we’re on the greens!”

When they are not at a party or on the course, the Jelliman crew enjoys an afternoon at the Heron Pizzeria. Their favourite slice to munch on is the Hawaiian. “Easiest choice,” Jenna says. “Then nobody fights over what we’re getting! And, yes, pineapple does belong on pizza.”

LOCAL REAL ESTATE

A CHIC AND SERENE REFUGE

WORDS CHRISSIE JOHNSON

Acalm and restorative home reduces stress, improves sleep quality, offers spaces for relaxation, and, through all this, augments an overall sense of well-being. This can be attained through a thoughtfully planned design that balances an outlook onto the surrounding environment whilst also providing relaxed and

functional living. Creating a stylish and practical family sanctuary that can realise all this is no mean feat. However, this refined residence has achieved just that.

On the lower level, spatial generosity has been accomplished by ensuring the central social areas are cleverly integrated. The kitchen, designed not merely

for culinary pursuits but as an artful backdrop to everyday living, fosters a connection with the adjacent dining room. This linkage extends to the lounge, promoting an expansive sense of space. While these distinct functional zones maintain their identity, their interconnectedness allows for ease of movement between them, facilitates “conversations between the integrated rooms”, and provides for a seamless flow to the adjoining outdoor spaces.

Additionally, these living rooms provide differing curated vistas through various openings, providing distinctive experiences throughout the area – thereby consolidating the relationship between the interior spaces, the immediate landscape and the views beyond. This characteristic also includes the two upstairs private balconies that lead off two of the three bedrooms.

Top LefT An experience of landscape is integral to this home. The outdoor patio area extending from the covered verandah, plus the shaded gravel garden, enhances the links between the home, garden and beyond. Additionally, the siting of the house has balanced both privacy and outlook. boTTom LefT The entrance area forms a central circulation zone whilst simultaneously connecting the integrated kitchen and lounge to the adjoining lounge area. Each room has its own distinct characteristics although still functioning together as a cohesive whole. Top RighT This elegant lounge exudes tranquillity through its harmonious blend of light colours and subtle textures that instantly soothe the senses. cenTRe Surrounded on two sides by glass, the dining area exudes a pavilion feel, offering transparency whilst providing connectivity between the indoor and outdoor social zones. The generously sized kitchen enjoys a wonderful outdoor vista. boTTom This cantilevered outdoor deck balcony adjoins the master bedroom and provides a quiet retreat amongst nature for early morning coffees as well as being an alluring space in which to take in far-reaching vistas over the undulating landscape.

The four private bedroom and three bathroom spaces, located on the uppermost level together with a private office nook, are a counterpoint to the bright openness of the living area below, providing secluded sanctuaries in which to recharge, relax and reflect.

This residence not only establishes a strong connection with its surroundings but also upholds the landscape values of the larger site. Seating areas have been incorporated in the front section and below the residence itself. These outdoor zones function as serene retreats where the

landscape seamlessly envelops visitors, engaging all the senses. Furthermore, these areas serve as a habitat for biodiversity, fostering an environment where birds and butterflies can thrive.

This striking home embraces a functional and sophisticated design while maintaining its role as a serene refuge from the bustle of suburbia. Through a carefully calibrated indooroutdoor relationship, it achieves a unique synthesis of aesthetics and functionality and a profound connection to nature, providing residents with a haven of tranquillity and well-being.

This home is available to purchase through Local Real Estate. For more information contact:

Rory Anderson: 073 697 4159

Richard Anderson: 083 358 5902

Jake Morgan: 082 607 1229

Graham White: 071 797 6666

Wi T h A

Here at Simbithi, one of the things we are known for is our award-winning, executive golf course. With its picturesque layout and design, its strategic greens and magnificent views, it is any golfer’s dream… and, often times, slight nightmare. Have you noticed, though, that our miniature golf course has had a slight facelift?

Let’s begin: the adventure golf course is a full 18-holer, we will have you know.

Located on the eastern bank of the Heron Community Centre, the course was a gift from Simbithi’s developers on the occasion of officially handing the Estate over to the HOA. Often referred to as “putt-putt”, adventure or miniature golf is a derivative of the gentlemen’s game that focuses on putting: the slow, gentle action of guiding a golf ball into a hole on a course.

Albeit on a smaller scale, adventure golf focuses on scoring the least amount of points and

is played through a delightful series of “holes”, quite similar to a conventional golf course. With adventure golf, the holes are short and moderately paced.

Toward the end of last year, our technical team undertook to give our adventure golf course a lick of inspiration before the holiday season. Budding golfers are now able to play through the course, with each

hole clearly marked by a Simbithi-green flag. The area around the course has also been tidied up, and more miniature golf clubs have been made available.

If you would like to play a round or two (big kiddos, you are most welcome, too!), please pop in at the Heron Pizzeria to request a club and balls.

Enjoy!

Meet

WORDS JODi chettY | PHOTOS chRiS ALLAn PhOtOGRAPhY

The gentlemen’s game, is it? Not entirely, or, at least not exclusively anymore. That is, of course, if professionals like Alet de Langen have anything to do with it. In this edition, we meet our (not so) new Pro Shop Manager and hear about her love for golf and plans to put ladies’ golf firmly in the Simbithi spotlight.

Iam running a few minutes late for our interview and, when I dash into the Country Club with summery rain streaming behind me, I spy Alet peeking through the leaves of the entrance plants. When I ask if she is hiding, she nods with a sparkle in her eyes.

“I’m an introvert,” Alet shares, shaking raindrops off her hair. This, then, explains why she enjoys golf as much as she does. “Golf could be a team or individual sport, depending on how you’re feeling when you play. Either way, it relies completely on you as a golfer. If something goes really well, or really badly… you only have yourself to reason with.”

Alet grew up in Kriel, Mpumalanga, which she fondly calls a “klein dorpie”. She picked up her first club in 2000, accompanying her father to the course. “He was a council engineer so only really had time to play social golf. When I first began playing, I loved that golf was an outdoor sport that required thought and

consideration. Years later, and I have added many more reasons to enjoy it!”

While she has always been sporty, little Alet wanted to be a nurse. She would spend her school holidays with her aunt, a nurse, in Warner Beach. “I knew I wanted to help people. As life turned out, I am helping people now, just in a different way.”

After school, Alet studied at the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) at their erstwhile golf academy. She also completed her degree in Sports Officiating and Coaching. “This allowed me to coach general sport, but I knew golf was what I was happiest doing, specifically in the club setting.”

Once she qualified as a Professional Golf Association (PGA) pro, Alet joined the team at the Waterkloof Golf Club where she worked for 14 years, eight of which were as the ladies’ captain. And, now, she finds herself seaside, managing our

Pro Shop and coaching. “It was time for a change, and Simbithi captured my attention. It is an exceptional course, yes, but just naturally beautiful.”

Three months into the job, Alet is enjoying Simbithi’s culture. “There’s a unique atmosphere among members and a genuine family vibe here in the Pro Shop. It’s lovely working with someone as chilled as Dane, too,” Alet refers to the Golf Manager and fellow pro, Dane Vosloo. The ladies’ section, says Alet, is growing well. “They work well together and they’re a tight group, rather feisty and passionate about golf at Simbithi,” she smiles. “But, they have welcomed me so kindly. I was here for a month, and they celebrated my birthday with me.”

Golf may be seen as a largely male sport, Alet acknowledges, but ladies’ golf is not to be sniffed at, particularly in South Africa. “So, I would be delighted to see

more ladies coming through to Simbithi to get onto the course.”

The Bambis, a group of ladies learning to play golf, will be started up again later this quarter. And, Alet shares, a burgeoning group of former Bambis will form a new, intermediate group. “This just proves how ladies’ golf is growing at Simbithi.”

While she is hard-pressed to pick a favourite hole on the course – because they are all uniquely

challenging – Alet does have a tip for first-time Simbithi golfers. “When you come onto our course, expect nothing… but a good game,” she winks. “Every hole requires strategy. You can’t just strut onto the tee and rip it. You have to think, and plan, otherwise you will be bitten!”

Well, then! To ensure you are not bitten, contact Alet at the Pro Shop for lessons: 032 946 5407 or golfpro@simbithi.com.

BiRDS OF Simbithi

“Everyone likes birds. What wild creature is more accessible to our eyes and ears, as close to us as everyone in the world, as universal as a bird?” sir David Attenborough was speaking generally, of course. but were the world-famous biologist to visit Simbithi, he may find that while everyone likes birds, some are utterly, irrevocably in love.

It was this love that cultivated a few enthusiastic bird watchers and photographers to flutter from capturing their sightings for the enjoyment of a few, to publishing them in a book now widely enjoyed by many.

Birding in Simbithi is by no means new. With a bird list exceeding 300 recorded species, it is difficult not to see and appreciate the winged members of our family. Our birding group, however, blew the wind closer to the subject when it formed two years ago. With a WhatsApp group established to share photographs and locations of birds on the

Estate, the conversation – or, the twitters, in this case –grew louder.

It was in 2023, when a few rather special birds put a feather in our cap, that the passion intensified. Sightings included the European Nightjar, one of the world’s most unusual bird species, the Common Cuckoo, Jacobin’s Cuckoo, Lilac-Breasted Roller, Lesser Moorhen and Bronze-Winged Courser. Added to this list were the Southern Banded Snake Eagle, Spotted Ground Thrush, African Finfoot, Green Malkoha and Narina Trogon.

Naturally, excitement heightened. And, as the

SPOTTED GROUND THRUSH

COLLARED SUNBIRD

photographs began streaming through, their quality became evident. “There was something special happening, and the birding group began to feel it,” Environmental Manager Ayanda Duma recalls. “When the idea of publishing a book was first raised,

it seemed quite ambitious. But the more we chatted about it, the more achievable the idea seemed.”

Ayanda and Marketing and Communications Co-Ordinator Jodi Chetty enlisted a local publishing company to assist with conception,

Little Bee-eater

Description of Appearance

the Little bee-eater may be diminutive but makes up for it with its kaleidoscopic plumage. A bright green cap, with a vibrant blue-black streak around the eye spills over a bright yellow neck.

Habitat

Perhaps with a bee in its beak, you are likely to spot these birds where there is open grassland or in a bushy area where they catch insects.

design and print. “We wanted the book to tell a story, really,” Jodi explains. “There are wellestablished, recognised bird guides that avid birders use, and we did not want to replicate that. As an Estate, we have a story to tell - every one of our residents do.”

As such, the book shares a brief, Simbithi-related anecdote about each bird and includes a map depicting which trail, forest or space the bird is most likely to be seen on, or near.

As such, the book shares a brief, Simbithi-related anecdote about each bird and includes a map depicting which trail, forest or space the bird is most likely to be seen on, or near

General Manager Marc Mc Clure, also an avid birder and budding bird photographer, took a keen interest in the project. “Members of our birding group were asked to submit photographs for consideration. These then went through an evaluation process by an external photographer, and a crop of images were chosen for publication.”

The creatives, as we have called them, who contributed to the project have chosen not to specify the attribution of each photograph. Instead, they have shared their interpretation of birdlife on Simbithi with aplomb. The publishing process was rewarding, particularly when the freshly printed book arrived at our offices.

“Birds of Simbithi is more than just a beautiful book,” Ayanda shares. “It is a celebration of the Simbithi environment. It is no coincidence that birds like the European Nightjar and Lesser Moorhen choose to come to Simbithi. We believe it shows that the hard work we have put into creating specific, welcoming environments for wildlife is bearing fruit.”

Jodi concurs, mentioning the inspirational excitement from each creative. “For someone like me, who was content to simply smile at a Village Weaver in the courtyard outside my office, this book has taught me quite a bit about birding. I now find myself springing up from my desk to shriek about a Brown Hooded Kingfisher or Speckled Mouse Bird near my window.”

The book, Marc concludes, is for everyone. “The way the book is presented allows anyone, even someone who is not yet a birder, to enjoy it. It tells the story of the birds of Simbithi, and we are grateful to be able to share this with our community.”

Birds of Simbithi is available for purchase from SEEHOA at R500 a copy. For more information, pop into our Welcome Centre.

In loving memory of our dearest Shirley Sage, who leaves us with memories of her quick wit and keen eye for bird photography. Shirley, we miss you dearly and are so glad we got to share the book with you.

AFRICAN EMERALD CUCKOO

The Amazing Vision of Anim Als in s imbithi

We are lucky to have an abundance of fascinating animals and insects here in Simbithi Eco-Estate. While I spend my days looking at human eyes, I was happy to come across an article by Leonie Joubert, a previous lecturer of mine, on the wonders of animal eyes.

Simbithi recently launched their comprehensive bird book, and my family and I frequently page through it while spotting birds in the garden (read more about

this exciting book in our environmental piece on page 34). Birds, of course, have exceptional vision. Leonie explained how many of them see millions of hues of colour, compared to dogs and cats who only see the world in hues of green and blue.

Owls are known for their excellent night vision. I learnt that their eyes are so big that there isn’t space for eye muscles around them, which is why they need to turn their heads almost completely around to see things. Amazing!

We are very lucky to have genets in Simbithi. Their pupils can open very wide to let more light into their eyes, helping them to see at night.

I love walking on our trails and seeing buck amongst the trees. Their eyes are on the sides of their heads which give them a wide field of view to look out for threats.

Insects and spiders can have compound or multiple eyes and dragonflies’ eyes are so big that they cover most of their heads, looking like a helmet. I was amazed to

learn that geckos have many vertically arranged pupils. Leonie explains how this helps them to see up to 350 times better than we can in dim light, even seeing colours at night.

Scan the QR code to read Leonie’s full article.

Trained,

This edition, our environmental department takes a walk in the shade, chatting about shade-tolerant plants that deter soil erosion. Here we go!

On gentle or steep slopes, stabilisation of the soil must take place to prevent erosion and increase the absorption of water. The best strategy is to use a variety of plants that root at different depths, to encourage a dense web of roots to hold your soil. Mixed vegetation will absorb rainfall energy and prevent soil compaction, while the roots physically bind soil particles, which

improves soil structure. Foliage from above slows the speed of runoff thereby reducing erosion and increasing absorption.

It becomes a significant problem when silt deposits interfere with driveway stability or your swimming pool. It becomes a community issue when it clogs neighbourhood drainage structures and storm drains. The nature of how a plant roots and its growth

habits dictate its value as an erosion control plant. Those species with a large proportion of fine roots that spread over a large area prove the best choices for slope stabilisation.

Other benefits of using a variety of plant forms:

• Introduction, restoration and conservation of soil nutrients

• Prevention of the establishment of invasive weeds

• Creation of a habitat for wildlife

• Improved aesthetics

In addition to growing perennial ground covers and shrubs, such that will spread and strike down roots to retain soil, consider creating terraces. Research has found that strappy leaf plants and grasses performed the best due to their extensive and fibrous root systems.

Weeds and water run-off are also problematic on slopes which can be combatted by planting thick, vigorous and fast-growth groundcovers.

Finally, landscaping wood mulch or biodegradable landscaping mats can be used to help stabilise the banks. If using mulch, make sure it is a thick layer between 60 millimetres to 75 millimetres and that it is large in size with few fines. This prevents weed invasion, stabilises the slope, holds in moisture, and looks after your lovely new plantings.

To find a list of plants suitable for this purpose, scan the QR code above. You will find all these plants at local nurseries.

If you need more advice, feel free to contact ea@simbithi.com

KARMA, KARMA - Oh, Hello!

WORDS JODI CHETTY | PHOTOS PAUL JOHNSON

they are truly interesting little creatures, full of wonder and intrigue. And, if you look at them closely enough, they almost look as though they are grinning at you!

Recently, they seem to be popping up throughout simbithi, so we thought we could reintroduce you to the creature known as… the chameleon.

During a recent weekend, a new member was welcomed to the SEEHOA team and has already made himself quite at home in our courtyard. A delightful chameleon, rescued by a couple of former residents, was placed safely on a tree branch among the Village Weavers.

“They are appearing everywhere lately,” Environmental Manager Ayanda Duma agrees. “We had not seen them in a while, so it is good to know that they are coming back to the environment. There are two types of chameleons found on Simbithi: flap-necked, and black dwarf-headed.”

Chameleons are part of the lizard family, best known for their unique ability to

camouflage by changing colour to match their surroundings. Some do this by altering how bright they appear, much like those in Simbithi, while others are more kaleidoscopic in appearance. Another distinguishing feature of the chameleon is its thin, projectile tongue that shoots out to catch prey.

These creatures have an interesting stride about them, often swaying back and forth before lurching forward. Their eyes, as you might have noticed if you have been up close with one, are individually ambulant. This means a chameleon is able to view, and analyse, a different image with each eye, at once!

They enjoy coastal forests, grasslands and suburban gardens. No small wonder, then,

Their eyes, as you might have noticed if you have been up close with one, are individually ambulant. This means a chameleon is able to view, and analyse, a different image with each eye, at once!

that they are quite at home in Simbithi. “We take good care of them, too,” Ayanda shares. “Our environmental team ‘sweeps’ lands before construction begins, to ensure that any chameleons in the area are safely relocated first.”

So, what to do if you see a chameleon?

Although they are small in stature, a chameleon will defend itself if you handle it roughly. They do let you come rather close to admire them, or take a photograph, but Ayanda says the best is to leave them be in their natural environment. “Like the rest of our wildlife, this is also their home. If you touch them, they are likely to freeze.

They are very intelligent creatures, so their eyes will keep swivelling to watch you.”

If you do spot a chameleon on the road, as we have in the past, it is possible to help them – gently. “They are slow and do walk strangely, but it may take a while and it is understandable that we don’t want them to be run over,” Ayanda says.

“If you pick a chameleon up, do not grab it. Put your hand out and let the chameleon walk onto your hand. Its

feet and tail will gradually hold onto you, gently. If you are forceful, you could break its bones.”

Once you have carried the chameleon to the other side of the road, place your hand on the grass and delicately let it walk off.

Now that we know a bit more about these chaps, what do you think we should name our new friend in the HOA courtyard? Karma sounds like a good place to start!

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