Mar 23 - Lowveld

KarLa 

TaLJaarD 

Beautifully 

spirited 

The art of 

walking 

FOODIE 

TRENDS 

FOR 2023 

SPLENDID 

ORCHIDS 

Tips for teen skin. 

Fitness, food and fun. 

Cheers to your best you! 

SHOPPIng, PEOPLE anD LIFESTYLE In YOUr nEIgHBOUrHOOD 

MARCH 2023

contents 

GET IT 

Why don’t you ... 

04 Listen to an orchestra, visit a farmer’s market, 

Editorial 

Phone 013 754 1600 

Lowveld Media 

12 Stinkhout Crescent, Mbombela 

Facebook Get It Lowveld 

Instagram Get It Lowveld 

Website getitmagazine.co.za/lowveld/ 

Editor 

Mellissa Bushby 

mellissa@getitlowveld.co.za 084 319 2101 

Photographers 

Tanya Erasmus 083 778 7725 

Belinda Erasmus 082 567 0596 

Layout 

Wessel Cöhrs 

Subeditors 

Jess Steyn • Wahl Lessing 

Sales 

Colletha Noppé Rattray 

colletha@lowvelder.co.za 082 745 2387 

Charledene Kotze 

charledene@lowvelder.co.za 079 403 8049 

GET IT NATIONAL 

National Group Editor and 

National Sales 

Kym Argo 

kyma@caxton.co.za 082 785 9230 

Facebook and Instagram: 

Get It National Magazines 

Distribution 

Get It Lowveld is distributed free of charge. 

For a full list of where to find a copy, 

phone Monya Burger on 083 555 4992 

Published by CTP Limited 

Competition rules 

The judges’ decision is final. Prizes cannot be 

transferred or redeemed for cash. Competitions 

are not open to the sponsors or Caxton 

employees or their families. Get It Magazine 

reserves the right to publish the names of 

winners, who will be contacted telephonically 

and need to collect their prizes from Get It 

Lowveld within 10 days or they will be forfeited. 

Prizewinners names are published on our 

Facebook page monthly. 

or learn a new skill 

06 It’s March (gasp!) and our book club list is 

chock full of great reads 

WISH LIST 

08 Fun things to do this month! 

people 

10 Karla Taljaard embodies the spirit of beauty on both 

the inside and the outside 

BEAUTY 

14 It’s time for teen beauty to strut its stuff 

with a little help from the experts 

HEALTH 

16 We chat to the energetic Megan Andersen about adventure racing, 

having a healthy body image and naked nutrition 

FOOD 

20 The 2023 foodie trends that are here to stay, 

and how to make the best of them 

GARDENING 

24 Glorious orchids and why their preservation 

is so important 

COMMUNITY 

26 TC Hillicks is protecting an age-old legacy 

TRAVEL 

30 A walk on the wild side 

Win 

32 A fab R10 000 voucher to spend at Thulestore.co.za 

COVER LOOK 

Karla Taljaard. 

Make-up: Elsabé Steyn - Elsabé Steyn Styling Studio. 

Photographer: Tanya Erasmus - Something Timeless Photography. 

Shot on location at The Capital Hotel, Mbombela. 

march 2023 

March 2023 Get It Lowveld 03

A hot date! 

Pencil these events into your March diary right now 

18 

Experience music like never before with Helena Hettema in Cabaret in the Sudwala Caves. She will 

wow audiences with music of French legends, divine divas and local stars, and much more. This not-to-bemissed 

event begins at 6:30pm and tickets cost R130pp. Restaurant and cash bar available. Details: info@ 

sudwalacaves.com, or call 083 446 0228 or 072 497 8268 

Join us for a fab macramé 

4 plant hanger workshop at 

Hippo Waterfront Lodge outside 

Mbombela. Hosted by Knot So 

Hippie, the event starts at 11am. 

Snacks will be provided, but bring 

your own drinks and glasses. Tickets 

cost R400pp. Don’t miss out! Details: 

Charlene on 071 473 0412 

04 Get It Lowveld March 2023 

Bring along friends and family 

5 for a marvellous time at The 

Market @ Casterbridge, White 

River. Browse through a wide 

variety of stalls, while sampling 

delectable food and drink. There 

is bound to be something for 

everyone. 9am to 1pm. Entry is free. 

Details: 082 331 0712 

11 

On your marks, get ready ... Get 

active for a good cause and join in 

Child Welfare SA Nelspruit’s Amazing 

Race. Register a team of colleagues 

or family members, and prepare for a 

fantastic day of fun. The starting point 

is Penryn College outside Mbombela. 

Meet at 11:30am. It cost R3 000 per team. 

Details: 013 753 3330 or www.amrace.co.za

20 

Get swept away in the magic of the internationally acclaimed 

Schönbrunn Palace Orchestra with a one-night only performance in 

the Lowveld at the Skukuza Golf Club. Enjoy this first-of-its-kind concert as part 

of the orchestra’s tour for conservation. It starts at 5pm and tickets cost R950pp. 

Details: Linda on 082 933 1011 or Sandra on 082 853 7885 

The most brutal poetry 

25 competition is back, and 

we’re so ready for it. Poets, get 

ready to say it or spray it during 

this occasion of words. Slam 

League, season 3, episode 1, takes 

place at 12 Suikerriet Street, 

Valencia Industrial, Mbombela at 

2:30pm. R50 entry fee. Details: 

www.wordsinmymouthpoetry.co.za 

26 

The ever-popular Dullstroom 

Country Festival awaits you! 

Join us for the fourth instalment of 

country lifestyle, local music, amazing 

food and entertainment for the whole 

family! Held at Dunkeld Country & 

Equestrian Estate, the fest begins at 

10am. Tickets start at R125 and can be 

bought via www.quicket.co.za. Details: 

www.dullstroomcountryfestival.co.za 

If you have a date for our diary, email the info at least a month in advance to jess@lowvelder.co.za 

18 

it’s time to get running. We’re super excited for the run City of 

Mbombela Jock of the Bushveld 4-in-1 Marathon. Distances 

are 4.9km (R50), 10km (R150), 21.1km (R230), and 42.2km 

(R350). The starting point for the 10km, 21.1km and 42.2km is 

Madiba Drive/r40 Barberton. The 4.9km begins at Barberton 

Bouwer Park. Medals to all finishers. Tickets can be bought online 

through www.entryninja.com. Details: 082 740 8839

Book club 

March (already!) and our shelves are groaning with the weight of 

March (already!) and our shelves are groaning with the weight of 

brilliant book club reads 

Judge Julia Cummins had no obvious 

enemies. There was no forced entry 

to her apartment, where the bodies 

of her and her bodyguard are found 

brutally murdered. Her ex and her 

teenage son both have strong alibies, 

the neighbours heard nothing, and 

the killer left behind a strange calling 

card. It’s up to FBI agent Amos Decker 

to investigate ... kicking off with the 

question as to why the judge felt she 

needed a bodyguard in the first place. 

And while he investigates, he’s also 

dealing with personal baggage ... the 

suicide of a close friend, the receipt 

of a letter concerning a personal, 

and possibly life-changing, issue, 

and a new partner. Long Shadows is 

another superb American detective 

tale from David Baldacci. Macmillan, 

available at Exclusive Books 

Paserene is a small Franschhoek estate with an impressive portfolio of awardwinning 

wines in three high-end luxury ranges – The Elements, The Paserene 

and The Shiner – each with their own unique features. At this March Book Club 

we’re serving Bright 2021 from the Elements range - the drawing of a swing 

on the label perfectly representing Paserene’s playful side. The ideal mid-week, 

easy-drinking wine, it’s made from 100 per cent Chardonnay grapes, with fresh 

citrus-centric aromas, which carry through to the palate, this lighter styled 

Chardonnay is lovely on its own or with a light seasonal salad, any type of 

poultry dish or with fresh tuna and salmon. Available directly from the Tasting 

Lounge at R190 per bottle. Details: paserene.com 

06 Get It Lowveld March 2023

Kyla Zhao wrote The Fraud Squad at the height of the 

pandemic, while studying in California. Set in Singapore, it’s the story 

of Samantha, a working class girl who dreams of having her own 

byline in a high-society magazine. instead, she works at a drab PR 

firm and lives vicariously through her socialite co-worker Anya, and 

her new friend, Timothy, the disillusioned son of one of Singapore’s 

elite families. With the help of both, she infiltrates high society and 

her dreams all start to come true. Until the arrival of a reporter on 

the prowl for high-society gossip, which could see her exposed! Kyla 

started writing in secret, not confident she’d finish the book ... then it 

was snapped up in a six-figure deal. Love it! Headline 

Aeons and Ancients. Outcasts and 

crazies. Witches back from the afterlife. 

Suzanne Wright’s The Wicked In Me isn’t 

for the fainthearted. Piatkus • Legends 

and Lattes from Travis Baldree is all high 

fantasy, ancient magic, delicious pastries 

... and a perfect cup of coffee. Macmillan 

• There are two sides to every story. 

And then there’s the truth. In Sandie 

Jones’ The Blame Game, a psychologist 

specialising in domestic abuse - and 

who finds it hard to not become overly 

invested in her clients’ lives - helps a 

middle-aged man make the decision to 

leave his wife. But she may have gone 

too far. Macmillan • The dynamics are 

simple in the Wolf family. Kill or be killed. 

The owner of a business empire has 

been found dead ... his daughter finds 

herself the new head ... but her brothers 

are trying to take over. All of them 

have reason, and motive, to kill. Murder 

runs in the family of house of Wolves 

by James Patterson and Mike Lupica. 

Century • A mother disappears from a 

busy festival, leaving her baby alone in a 

pram, never to return. Full of suspense, 

mystery and twists, Exiles by Jane 

Harper is a rip-roaring read. Macmillan 

• From local author Ron Irwin, My Side 

of the Ocean revolves around an 

American artist and a surfer who meet 

when the two are tracked by a great 

white shark in the ocean, leaving them 

deeply traumatised. An affair follows ... 

does the artist stay with the man who’s 

reawakened her passion for art, or return 

to New York with her wealthy husband? 

Macmillan All these titles available at 

Exclusive Books. 

Compiled by: KYM ARGO 


Wish list 

Save water, kiss a frog and other fun things 

to do this March! 

if your taste is a little offbeat, you’re going to love Shnook ... who describe 

themselves as the site which is a safe space to allow your weird tastes to 

run wild. Fabulously fun cushions, totes and quirky vinyl stickers ... like 

this Queen Frog (for those looking for a fairy tale, there’s 

a King Frog too, worth kissing). The i’m a Pansy tote bag 

is made from slightly stretchy fabric, to fit everything you 

could imagine! Bags R180, stickers from R10 each from 

shnookthebrand.com 


Getting your vitamins and minerals 

is now as easy as popping a 

translucent sticker onto your wrist. 

Vitamin patches, also known as 

transdermal patches or vitamin 

skin patches, are an easy way to 

deliver a dose of vitamins, minerals 

or even medication, through your 

skin and into your bloodstream. 

The Patch Brand has options 

of Sleep, Immunity, Stress Relief, 

Energy and Focus. R230 each from 

thebeautybag.co.za and Dis-Chem.

The little big solution to your water needs 

Besides being climate friendly and helping 

cut costs, water tanks are becoming almost 

as important as inverters, with water outages 

striking hard. Harvesting and storing may, in 

our future, be essential ... there’s already an 

increasing demand from buyers and renters 

for off-the-grid and back-up solutions. But 

generally it’s only larger homes that have 

space for big tanks, with smaller properties 

and townhouses losing out. So ... a small 

solution for a big problem. The new Slimline 

tanks from JoJo are ideal for limited spaces. 

Smallest of the range is the 1000-litre 

SuperSlim tank ... perfect for city living, where 

limited space requires a snug fit into corners 

and down narrow walkways. It attaches to 

a wall to keep it secure and is supplied with 

the basics required for installation. Designed 

for ease of use, it has various connection 

options to ensure seamless installation into 

your setup, can be installed with some simple 

DIY, and if you’re a renter or selling up, you 

can remove it and take it with you. Jolly nifty 

... and it’s available in a couple of colours, too. 

Details: jojo.co.za 

Add a personal touch to your home or work with a beautifully designed 

monogram, crafted to your specifications. Available from Anlea 

Custom Creations. Details: 060 333 6406 

RIVC0309NC

adventure 

Spirit of 

Local businesswoman, adventurer and go-getter Karla Taljaard always thought she’d be 

a big-city girl living a big-city life, but boy, was she in for a surprise.

fter getting her BSc 

in consumer science 

and business 

management, Karla 

started working 

for Imperium 

Negotiations and 

Linda Paige, both family-owned 

companies, which enabled her 

to travel. 

“We went to the UK, Israel and 

the States, where we visited 

Texas, Florida, California, and 

even Vegas, baby!” the bubbly 

blonde laughs. “It was great; I 

loved every minute of it. We 

travelled for nine months living 

out of just a 20kg suitcase and 

a carry-on! Texas is my favourite 

place; everything there really is 

bigger and better.” 

‘I am motivated by 

people who walk 

with confidence; 

people who invest 

in themselves’ 

Working for Linda Paige was a 

game changer for Karla, who 

grew up a quiet and self-aware 

little girl. “Our role was to 

empower and equip women 

to step up and be confident. 

This inspired me, helping 

me on my own journey of 

overcoming fear and stepping 

into confidence. Believing 

that I have the spirit of beauty 

inside me, just like everyone 

else, enables me to say with 

confidence that I no longer 

have that fear, because I chose 

to work on myself and break 

through those barriers.” 

This is partly why people who 

have strong opinions and 

values inspire her, as do people 

who believe in themselves.

“I am motivated by humility,” she 

smiles, “and by people who walk with 

confidence; people who invest in 

themselves. People that get out of 

their comfort zone, which is also their 

dead zone.” 

In keeping with this spirit, Karla 

stepped out of her own comfort 

zone and left Linda Paige, starting 

work in an entirely new industry. “I 

believe in taking action and adapting 

if you want to make your dreams 

come true. That’s one of the reasons 

why I made the choice to move 

to Mbombela in April 2022, and 

immediately started working for Volvo 

Nelspruit as a finance and insurance 

assistant. Seven months later, I was 

asked if I wanted to step into another 

challenge by managing the new car 

sales department, and now I’m the 

acting new sales manager. I love it; I 

learn something new every day.” 

This wasn’t always on the cards for 

the chocolate-, bubbly-, surprises-, 

shopping- and family-loving Karla, 

who always saw herself as the CEO in 

the most important positions of all - 

housewife and mum. “I have always 

thought those are often overlooked 

and don’t get enough praise. I still do, 

but have also since discovered that 

I’m someone who loves taking action 

and who chases after challenges. I 

want to have a positive impact on 

lives everywhere I go.” 

The lure of new opportunities wasn’t 

the only reason she found herself 

Karla and her close friend, Lizani 

van Riel 

making the move to the Lowveld 

countryside, the other was perhaps 

the oldest motivation in the book 

- she moved for love. Karla initially 

met Thomas Hattingh when they 

were both students. A mutual friend 

introduced them, but at the time, Karla 

wasn’t interested. “A few years later I 

was at my best friends’ wedding, and 

Text: MELLISSA BUSHBY. Photographer: TANYA ERASMUS 

The lovebirds, Thomas Hattingh and Karla Taljaard 


I walked into him at the bar. I said to him I knew him, and 

that his name is Timothy. We had a good laugh and the 

rest is history, and here I am in the Lowveld!” 

Karla has embraced her new home with gusto, and 

loves being so close to nature, although she says the 

heat takes some getting used to and she hasn’t quite 

acclimatised yet. Thomas, who is an avid birding and 

camping enthusiast, has introduced her to these two 

favourite pastimes. “Birding is something I have learnt 

from Thomas, although I’m not sure if it was by force or by 

choice,” she laughs. “In the beginning it was definitely out 

of my comfort zone, but I have come to enjoy it. I never 

thought I’d be the type to like camping! We usually go to 

the Kruger National Park, camp there and then go birding, 

or we go on trips with friends to spot new birds.” 

When she’s not working (or birding), Karla says keeping 

fit is a priority for her. She enjoys CrossFit to make sure 

she remains at the top of her game, but also loves a day 

at the spa, spending time on herself and getting 

pampered. “I also love a good bottle of wine,” she adds, 

“which is something I’ve learnt from Thomas and his wineloving 

father.” 

What does the future hold for this go-getter, who always 

thought she’d be a city girl, but ended loving a life on 

the farm? Karla says she intends stepping up and out, 

investing in herself and becoming the person she is 

meant to be. “The best life lesson I ever learnt was that the 

greatest investment you can make is in yourself. How can 

you expect someone to invest in you if you don’t invest in 

yourself?” Well, there’s that. But we also anticipate plenty of 

camping and birding adventures along the way! 

RIV0309NC

Clean. Kind. Ethical. We’re all over 

Eco Diva, a local, brand that’s 

all 100% natural plant-based 

ingredients. If you’re prone to 

breakouts, try the Acne Mini 

Solution Set - a 30-day starter kit 

that targets acne, breakouts and 

scarring through plant-based skin 

superfood formulations designed 

to balance skin pH and hormones. 

The set includes a natural face 

wash, an exfoliant skin polish, an 

hydrating masque, their Liquid 

Vitamin Hydra Mist, and The 

Ultimate Face Cream. R895, from 

ecodiva.co.za 

You’re a Gen Z ... and you want some major success with 

your skin-care routine. You’d also like it to do it’s thing quickly 

(preferably right now – but a little patience and some 

dedication = results). Oh! And be super authentic! Hello RITES. 

An extensive range, including The Fresh Crusader pack 

of 20 toner face wipes, perfect for on-the-go cleansing for 

prob areas like that pesky T-zone. 

Great for after sport, these help 

unclog pores and give hydration 

with just one swipe. (R180) and 

Disappearing Act spot control 

gel ... a targeted treatment for 

embarrassing breakouts of which 

it visibly reduces blemishes and 

prevents them coming back. R150. 

Details: rites.co.za 

The My Clarins range consists 

of simple recipes, and is jampacked 

with plants, fruit, seeds 

and flowers. Formulated for 

18-29, this new generation 

skincare can be used on all 

skin types, every day, making 

it easy to get rid of toxins 

and pollutants and feed your 

skin the healthy diet it needs, 

chock full of minerals, vitamins 

and trace elements. We love 

the Clear-Out targeted 

blemish lotion, R325, 

from Mopani 


Pigment Ease-up ensures a 

redistribution of pigmentation 

cells, helping to diminish 

pigmentation marks over time, 

which it does by blocking 

melanocyte stimulation. It 

improves the structure of the 

skin while moisturising and 

protecting against UV rays, and is 

suitable for all skin types and all 

ages. R520, from Aniska Skin and 

Art, 082 686 6295. 

The Sh’zen Natural Essence range 

is perfect for teen skins. Try the 

Purifying Cleansing Wash foaming 

cleanser with a natural antibacterial 

action (R349), the Skin Life Oil, 

with 100 per cent natural plant and 

essentials oils works to purify, repair, 

restore and rebalance skin - use 

whenever skin needs extra comfort 

(R465). For stockists, visit shzen.co.za

Teen beauty 

Apply a 

small tab 

of RITES 

Sweet 

Sidekick 

sugar lip 

scrub for 

smooth lips. 

R80, from 

rites.co.za 

happi Eau De Parfum 

- a clean sparkling 

fragrance, delicately 

fragranced with the 

floral notes of lilies, 

peonies, violet leaves 

and patchouli. 

R539. For stockists, 

visit shzen.co.za 

Keep one of these Gatineau 

Clear & Perfect SOS 

Spot Sticks in your bag. 

A self-sterilising rollerball 

applicator, it’s soothing antiinflammatory 

formula can be 

applied throughout the day 

to reduce redness, tighten 

pores and limit shine. R470, 

from orleanscosmetics.co.za 

For Insta selfies and party confidence, 

try applying your foundation with this 

Bubble Makeup Sponge. Used wet, 

it’s mega soft and mimics skin pores to 

give you a natural, airbrushed look ... no 

special skills or IG filters required. 

R370, from Woolworths.co.za 

Girls just wanna have fun. 

Missguided Babe Heat 

fragrance has just launched ... 

and you’re going to love it! 

R655, from Mopani 


NAKED 

nutrition 

From early on, Megan Andersen has been 

passionate about fitness and health. From 

starting out as a swimming and water aerobics 

instructor to completing a 550km adventure race, 

she is truly living her dream. 

egan’s formal 

education journey 

was somewhat 

unconventional. She 

left home at an early 

age, before attending 

Penryn College outside Mbombela 

for a few years. From there she 

started homeschooling, but left 

to start working. Throughout all of 

this, her love of health and wellness 

stayed constant. “Growing up with 


an active father and a mother who 

was a talented cook and baker, I was 

surrounded by a healthy and active 

lifestyle, which had a major impact on 

me, fuelling my passion for nutrition, 

sports and self-care,” she explains. 

“My love of these things is so strong 

that I couldn’t ignore it, and eventually 

I was able to make the time to study 

nutrition and coaching. This led me 

to where I am now with my company, 

Nutritiously Naked, and I haven’t 

looked back since!” 

Megan is a firm believer that the 

increasing influence of social media 

has led to us losing touch with 

ourselves and our bodies’ individual 

needs when it comes to nutrition. 

“The endless diets, detoxes and 

weight loss fads can make us forget 

the basics of nutrition and instead 

focus on external factors, such as 

appearance and weight. The result 

is that we are often ruled by what

the scale says and what we see on 

social media, rather than how we feel, 

perform and focus,” she says. Megan 

adds that shifting our focus back to 

the basics of nutrition is important. 

“We need to learn to understand 

the unique requirements of our own 

bodies for nutrition, sleep, and overall 

well-being. Instead of conforming to 

societal expectations, let’s prioritise our 

own health and well-being by listening 

to our bodies and meeting their needs.” 

Having struggled with emotional 

and binge eating, which originated 

from personal traumas in her own life, 

Megan understands the challenges 

and hardships that come with it. This 

led her to recognise and understand 

the harmful effects this, and stress 

- and at certain times, overtraining - 

was having on her body. “On top of 

this, I was trying numerous diets and 

detoxes. I soon learnt the importance 

of proper nutrition, gaining valuable 

personal experience in the process. 

I am driven to help others who may 

be going through similar experiences, 

letting them know that they are not 

alone and that they too can overcome 

their challenges, adopting a healthier 

lifestyle while still enjoying food 

and life.” 

Megan’s strong conviction is that food 

conveys crucial information about 

our lives, wat has happened and what 

is currently happening. She explains 

that not only does it matter what 

we eat, but also the manner, timing 

and circumstances surrounding our 

eating habits. “By gaining a deeper 

understanding of our nutritional and 

lifestyle habits, we can tackle the 

underlying challenges we face and 

develop new and healthier habits to 

practise stronger self-care and love for 

ourselves,” she smiles. 

When she isn’t advocating healthy 

eating habits, Megan is extolling the 

virtues of adventure racing. Perhaps 

not for the faint of heart, her first 

dip into these waters took place 

in 2021, with a 120km challenge 

she embarked on after joining the 

Slowvelders Adventure Racing Team. 

“That experience got me hooked on 

the physical and mental demands, 

teamwork, planning, and the pure 

fun of being outdoors and pushing 

myself with my team,” Megan says with 

enthusiasm. “Last year, we took on the 

Expedition Africa Lesotho, which consisted of a 500km trek of mountain biking, 

kayaking and trekking through Lesotho.” 

Despite the sleep deprivation, cold, rain and a teammate having to pull out due 

to an injury, Megan loved every minute of it, describing it as an absolute blast 

and a true adventure. “My teammates, Wihan Jacobs and Stephen Pinker, and 

I completed the race in five days and 550km, with our fourth teammate, Harry 

Wiltshire, cheering us on at the finish line. Now I’m gearing up for the 2023 

Adventure Racing World Championship in the Kouga region of the Eastern Cape, 

where we will be facing a 700km adventure race. I still have some training to do, 

but I’m so excited and can’t wait to tackle this new obstacle!” 

She explains that ultra-endurance races are more than just a physical challenge 

for her. They also allow her to explore her love of the outdoors and to push her 

limits. But what she finds most fascinating is the mental aspect of these races. 

“It’s a journey of self-discovery, on which I get to learn about my own strengths, 

determination, grit and capacity,” she smles. “I race for the love of the sport and 

the thrill of the outdoors, but most importantly, I race for myself. It’s a way for me 

to continuously improve and better myself in every aspect. I highly recommend 

it. To anyone who wants to start adventure racing … my best advice would be to 

just start! Get your team together, go out there and have a jol! It’s not always easy, 

but it’s definitely worth it.” 

Megan’s philosophy is simple - a healthy lifestyle encompasses a state of 

contentment with yourself, your choices, and your relationship with food. A 

place where guilt, shame or comparisons are no longer factors in our relationship 

with food or ourselves. “A healthy lifestyle encompasses a harmonious balance 

of a healthy mind, soul and body,” she says, “all of which need to be cherished, 

nourished and protected, as they make us truly unique individuals. They make 

you uniquely you!” 

Details: megan@meganandersen.co.za or 076 385 8160 

Text: MELLISSA BUSHBY. Photographer: TERENCE VRUGTMAN 


Text: MELLISSA BUSHBY 

Wrap it up 

One of these hip and happening food 

fads is the Vietnamese or Thai wrap. Wraps 

have been around forever, but are enjoying 

brand-new popularity in culinary circles. 

Rice paper, once considered exotic 

and foreign, is available at many local 

supermarkets around the Lowveld, and 

the fillings are really all about the occasion 

and the mood. Mastering them at home 

may seem like a big ask, but what they 

may lack in structure and shape, they will 

more than make up for in taste. You’ll soon 

realise they are an almost perfect food, and 

can be eaten as a snack or as a meal - the 

possibilities are endless. 

Wraps are first and foremost packed full of 

goodness. While this depends to a certain 

degree what you put inside, for the most 

part they are chock-a-bloc full of fresh, raw 

veggies, prawns and rice noodles. The roll 

itself is gluten-free, the only starch coming 

from the rice. 

Experiment with bean sprouts, spring 

onions, coriander and carrots, different 

types of lettuce, rocket, radishes, and a 

large variety of herbs. One of the benefits 

of wraps is that they are suitable for almost 

all dietary requirements. You can choose 

to make your wraps vegan, add tofu, lentils 

or chickpeas, or include seafood with tuna 

or prawns. The main thing is that whatever 

you put inside must be raw, crunchy and 

fresh. Traditional Vietnamese ingredients 

are fresh chilli, shallots, lemongrass, ginger 

and garlic. Mix and match! 

They make the perfect party food as they 

can be made in advance and can be cut 

into smaller, bite-sized pieces. It’s also 

a lot of fun to invite a couple of friends 

over before the time, open a bottle of 

something cold and lay the ingredients out. 

That way, everyone can make their own 

combinations. 

Apart from parties, snacktime, lunch and 

dinner, Vietnamese wraps make perfect 

lunchbox fodder. Simply make up a dipping 

sauce and add it to your lunch bag along 

with your wraps. It’s also the ideal way of 

disguising veggies for fussy kids. 

These darlings also pair very well with a 

delicious dipping sauce, traditionally sweet 

chilli or spicy peanut satay sauce. Hot 

sauces and flavours (especially swicy!) are 

another 2023 trend, so pack in the chilli! 

Fresh, flakes or ground, the choice is yours. 

And, if spicy isn’t quite your thing, soy sauce 

works just as well, especially if you add a 

little wasabi and pickled ginger. 

Food trends for the year ahead are an interesting 

array of healthy, from mocktails to plant-based and 

raw. A few old favourites are making a comeback, 

while some are standing the test of time. Either 

way, it seems that from speciality mushrooms and 

cannabis-infused cake, to butter boards and gutfriendly 

probiotics, interesting cuisine is here to stay. 


vietnamese wrap with dipping sauce 

Ingredients 

For the rolls: 

• 10 spring roll wraps • 1 cucumber, finely sliced • 1 red pepper, 

seeded and finely sliced • 2 large carrots, peeled and finely sliced 

• ½ head red cabbage, sliced • Coriander 

For the sweet chili sauce: 

• ½ cup and 2 tbsp water • ½ cup sugar • 2 tbsp garlic and chilli sauce 

• 1 tbsp cornstarch 

Method 

For the rolls: 

To reconstitute the wrappers, follow the directions on the packaging. 

Place a few slices of cucumber, red pepper, carrots, cabbage and 

coriander in the middle of the wrapper. Roll the bottom half of the 

wrapper up over the vegetables and then again over each side, 

towards the centre. Then roll the wrap tightly towards the top. 

For the sweet chili sauce: 

Put all ingredients except the cornstarch in a small pot and bring to 

the boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Stir the cornstarch and water 

together separately. Once dissolved, add the cornstarch mixture into 

the saucepot and leave to simmer until thickened. Remove from heat 

and allow to cool. 

Serve with a chilled glass of bubbly, or better yet, mix up a couple 

of glasses of our sublime Paloma and indulge in a delectable twist 

on a classic.

Listen to your gut 

Maintaining good gut health is crucial when it comes to keeping a healthy 

balance. Live organisms known as probiotics provide beneficial bacteria, 

which in turn supply the body and brain with powerful benefits, including 

good heart health, improved digestive health, and enhanced mental health. 

By improving the flora balance in the digestive system, probiotics also boost 

immunity and reduce inflammation. There are many supplements on the 

market, but home-made and all-natural are always best. Probiotic foods are all 

the rage in 2023, and include miso, tempeh, kefir, yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, 

kombucha and pickled vegetables. We love this quick and easy recipe for 

fermented orange juice. 

Kefir orange juice 

Ingredients 

• 2½ cups fresh orange juice 

• ½ tsp water kefir grains (available 

at health shops and online) • Water 

• Sea salt 

Method 

Wash and dry a 1L lidded jar. Pour 

in the orange juice, then add the 

water kefir grains and a dash of sea 

salt. Fill the jar with around 1 cup of 

water. Cover and shake well. Allow 

to ferment at room temperature 

for 48 hours, then refrigerate for 

two to three hours.

ADvERToRiAL 

Let’s toast to 

avOS 

a celebration of the trendy and healthy avo 

Over the years, foodies and consumers have been ‘adding an avo’ to 

their meals. This year avos tick many of the boxes on the Everyday 

health Top 10 healthy Food Trends list for 2023 as well! 

One of the listed trends, ‘plants in more places’, encourages new 

ways to eat fruits and veg. It cites an ‘upswing in the creative use 

of vegetables and fruits as people strive to hit that five-a-day 

recommendation. For example - using avocado in the place of butter. 

Other trends in the report, where the avo is right at home, include: 

‘more plant-based options’, ‘Mood-boosting foods’ and ‘food 

for your gut’. ‘More plant-based options’ speaks to the growing 

trend of people consciously choosing to eat less meat. As a result, 

interest in meat alternatives and interesting fruit and vegetable 

options is increasing across the globe. This is where avos come into 

their own as an incredibly versatile fruit. 

The ‘mood-boosting foods’ trend refers to feel-good foods 

that help ward against depression and support brain health. 

Foods higher in good fats may lower the risk of depression and 

anxiety and considering one avocado contains 13g of healthy 

monounsaturated fatty acids, there’s definitely a spot for them in 

that category! 

New research has also shown that eating avos may benefit healthy 

gut flora. This puts avos on the list as one of the good guys when it 

comes to the ‘food for your gut’ trend as well. As you can see, there 

are plenty reasons to ‘add an avo’ to your meals this year! 

avocado Halves, 

White Bean and 

Sundried Tomato Salad 

Serves 4, preparation time: 20 minutes 

Ingredients: 

2 large ripe avocados, 30 ml (2 tbsp) 

avocado or olive oil, 125 ml (½ cup) spring 

onions (chopped), 30 ml (2 tbsp) salted 

capers (rinsed), Fresh basil leaves, to taste, 

120 g / 250 ml (1 cup) pitted green olives 

(finely chopped), 2 cloves garlic (grated), 

60 ml (¼ cup) red wine vinegar, 1 chilli 

diced (optional), 410 g can white beans 

(drained), 120 g / 250 ml (1 cup) marinated 

sundried tomato (chopped), 200 g cherry 

tomatoes (rinsed), microgreens to garnish 

Method: 

1. Cut the avocados in half and 

remove the stones. 

2. Place the oil, spring onions, 

capers, basil, olives, garlic, 

vinegar and chilli into a 

bowl and mix to combine. 

3. Mix the remaining 

ingredients in a separate 

bowl, and spoon into 

the avocado halves, 

drizzle with the olive 

mixture. 

4. Serve with 

crusty bread. 

For more info and recipes, visit avocado.co.za , like us on Facebook @iloveavocadoSa and follow us on Instagram @iloveavossa

Glorious orchids 

The Lowveld is well known for its diverse natural beauty and rich biodiversity, 

attracting visitors from far and wide to appreciate the abundance of fauna and flora. 

One of the most unique and 

fascinating aspects of the local flora 

is the numerous orchid species in the 

area, found in an array of different 

habitats such as forests, savannas and 

wetlands. 

Orchids are known for their beautiful 

and exotic flowers, coming in a 

variety of shapes, sizes and colours, 

and ranging from delicate and dainty 

to large and showy. Many of them 

are also known for their unique and 

intricate patterns and designs, which 

are often distinctive to each species. 

It’s not all show and ceremony, 

though - there is a more to these 

exceptional plants than mere 

magnificence, they also play an 

important role in the ecosystem. 

Orchids serve as a habitat and food 

source for many insects and other 

pollinators, including bees, butterflies 

and moths. They also play a role in 

seed dispersal and help to maintain 

the balance of the ecosystem 

by facilitating the transfer of 

genetic material between different 

plant species. 

Sadly, despite their vital role in 

the ecosystem, many indigenous 

orchids are under threat. Habitat 

loss and degradation, along with 

the increasing pressure of human 

activities like agriculture, mining and 

urbanisation, have resulted in the loss 

of numerous habitats, leading to a 



decline in the population of a number 

of wild orchids. In addition, overcollection 

for horticultural purposes 

has also contributed to the decline in 

the population of some species. 

To protect and conserve these unique 

and valuable plants and their natural 

habitats, various initiatives have been 

implemented, along with education 

and awareness programmes aimed 

at educating the public about the 

importance of orchids and the 

significant need to conserve them. 

Orchids are an important and 

fascinating aspect of the area’s rich 

biodiversity. By taking steps to protect 

their habitats and educating people 

about their importance, we can ensure 

that they continue to thrive and enrich 

our lives for generations to come. 

orchid Farmstall 

Run by Robby and Urna Stevenson, the Orchid Farmstall and Nursery on the 

N4, which is situated 16km outside Mbombela, is a quiet little oasis where you 

can stop off and recharge while immersing yourself in the wonderful world of 

these glorious blooms. 

The farmstall, which started out as a small retail nursery in 1990, selling Louise 

Stevenson’s beautiful exotic orchids to loyal Johannesburg and Pretoria 

customers travelling home from the Lowveld, has now become an upgraded 

retail stopover. 

With the addition of a small, newly developed barista area and coffee shop, 

the farmstall is the perfect destination shop for orchid and plant lovers alike.

advertorial 

Preserving a 

In March 1915, Mosaburo Makita founded Makita Electric Works in 

Japan and began selling and repairing lighting equipment, motors 

and transformers. In 1958, Makita marketed a portable electrical 

planer in Japan and became a manufacturer of power tools the 

following year. 

It was a labour of love for Makita, who 

took great pride in his work and tools, 

and his biggest dream was that his 

legacy of quality would live on. Fastforward 

more than 100 years and 

thousands of kilometres away from 

Makita’s birthplace, BUCO Nelspruit 

intends on giving this legacy the justice 

it deserves. 

When you make your way to the brandnew 

power tool service centre at BUCO, 

you will find that it is in the capable 

hands of TC Hillicks, devout employee for 

more than 25 years. The centre does not 

only carry the flag for being the official 

Makita service centre in the Lowveld, but 

the equally legendary Bosch brand has 

also awarded it the same official name 

for its products. We wanted to meet the 

man behind the carefully serviced and 

repaired power tool. 

A born and bred Lowvelder, TC started 

his school career at Laerskool Bergland. 

The family moved around within the then 

Transvaal as his father worked on various 

mines around the area. After spending 

some time in Lydenburg and Belfast, TC 

matriculated from Hoërskool Sybrand van 

Niekerk in Sabie, and from there it was off 

to the army. 

Wanting to follow in his father’s footsteps, 

he applied for an apprenticeship at a 

local mine. With the fitting and turning, 

his trade of choice, it was already clear 

that he had a passion for machinery and 

working with his hands. In an unfortunate 

twist of events, TC was unable to 

complete his tradesmanship due to 

health issues, which caused him to move 

back to the Lowveld. It was here that he 

was offered a position with a local 

company that specialised in the 

maintenance and repairs of hydraulic and 

other forestry equipment. 

Through this employment, his path 

crossed with the late Louw Sevenster’s. 

Louw was a well-known and respected 

long-time employee of the then Laeveld 

Bouhandelaars. He was also a supplier 

to the same company for which TC was 

working at the time. Louw knew that the 

company values aligned with TC’s, and 

he offered him a position in the debtors 

department. TC eventually moved over 

to the creditors department, which then 

led to him managing BUCO Nelspruit’s 

receiving department for four years. The 

stage was set and the way was paved for 

him to apply his years of experience, love 

of machinery and dedication to BUCO 

to take up the task of opening the new 

service centre. 

We chatted to him on a rainy morning 

and he sounded like the sun was shining 

outside. Upbeat and ready for the day, he 

tells us that he’s been married for 33 years 

to a well-known local business-woman, 

Daleen. The couple has a 25-year-old son, 

David. Even more brightness emits from 

his voice when he speaks about his two 

dogs, Frikkie the fox terrier and Vlooi the 

sausage dog. He says the family love to 

travel and that they have a special affection 

for Mozambique, where they own a 

property. 

We also discover that TC is man of many 

talents. When he’s not travelling and 

exploring with his family, he can be found 

in one of two special places. He’ll either 

be in his garden sowing, pruning and 

mowing, or you can find him in his model 

workshop. TC builds plastic model planes, 

trucks and cars as a hobby. 

It is clear why BUCO Nelspruit chose TC 

to spearhead its new project with Makita 

and Bosch. The new service centre does 

services, repairs and warranty repairs on 

all Makita and Bosch products. It also sells 

mowers and brush cutters. The next step 

will be to set up a glass-cutting operation. 

Like every other BUCO project, this 

undertaking was approached with 

careful consideration of the ethos of 

both Makita and Bosch, intertwined 

with the value and vision of the company 

itself. TC was handpicked to be captain of 

this project and to start this ship on its 

maiden voyage. We look forward with 

great excitement to see where it is 

headed.

TC Hillicks

GET IT DIRECTORY

GET IT DIRECTORY

If there is one thing Lowvelders 

love, it’s a good walk in the 

spectacular area we call home. 

From donning a backpack and 

hitting the Queen Rose, to a 

sedate ramble with the dogs 

on a Sunday afternoon, not 

only is walking good for you, 

but it’s the perfect time for selfreflection, 

to bond with friends 

and family, or to indulge in a 

little breathtaking scenery. 

While it may seem straightforward, walking isn’t quite as cut and dried 

as you may think. There are specific varieties, such as rambling, hiking, 

trekking, and bushwalking, a popular pastime for visitors to the Kruger. The 

local parkruns at Hall’s and Klipspringer Lodge are also a hit, with plenty of 

people who are otherwise busy during the week donning their lycra and 

joining in on the fun, often with a dog (or three) in tow. 

Firstly, depending on the type of 

walking you intend to do, you will 

need to consider the appropriate 

gear. While a sturdy pair of walking 

shoes will suffice for a Sunday 

afternoon stroll, a hike or bushwalk 

needs sterner stuff. Consider 

spending a bit extra, especially 

when it comes to footgear - your 

feet will thank you. Walks do not 

require special equipment other 

than perhaps a water bottle, and 

can usually be enjoyed by any age 

and fitness level. Similar is rambling, 

which has become a favourite local 

pastime. Rambling usually means a 

group of people, especially a club 

or association, that get together 

on a regular basis to explore the 

countryside. 

A walk on the 

WILD SIDE 

Taking time out to go for a walk is one of the best things you can do for your physical 

and mental well-being, and we are fortunate to have the cream of the walking/ 

hiking/outdoor trail opportunities right on our doorstep. 


Hiking is walking ramped 

up a bit. More strenuous 

and usually with defined 

time and distance markers, 

a hike entails walking 

through more rugged 

terrain, although usually on 

marked or established trails 

through mountainous or 

bushveld territory. Proper 

equipment is essential, and 

hikes are often overnight or 

even a few days, so a sturdy 

but lightweight backpack 

and comfortable clothing 

is a must. In South Africa, 

trekking is often used to 

define more remote, rough 

landscapes, with trails not 

readily visible and quite a 

bit of bushwhacking, and 

a good level of fitness is 

required! 

There are a number of excellent walks, hikes and bush trails in the Lowveld. We 

have the perfect climate and gorgeous surroundings. It makes perfect sense 

to start incorporating a daily stroll into your routine. If this is already something 

you love to do, maybe opt for something a little more strenuous and sign up 

for one of the many hikes in the area, or join the Ramblers. Kaapsehoop is also 

a wonderful place to wander around, and getting a little lost is all part of the 

fun. You can follow the hiking trails, go for a walk to the old cemetery, or hike 

up to the escarpment, where the view of forever will take your breath away. 

The birdlife is also spectacular, and there are regular guided walks to the area 

specifically made for birdwatchers. 


Friends Café in Mbombela has 

a 1.8km and 5km walking trail 

in beautiful, indigenous bush 

surroundings. Afterwards, you can 

pop into the restuarant for an icecold 

beverage, delicious meal or 

quick snack before heading home. 

The Lowveld Botanical Garden is a 

haven for walkers. You can take a 

book and a picnic basket, or simply 

amble around the magnificent 

scenery and interesting snippets that 

explain the local fauna and flora. If 

you step a little further afield, out of 

Mbombela and towards White River, 

you’ll find the charming MTO Trail at 

The Plantsman, and a trip down the 

N4 will take you to Mankele. These 

are just a few of the options available 

on our doorstep, so there really is no 

excuse not to fill up a water bottle 

and get moving, even if it is just up 

the road and back!

When babe needs the very best (and let’s be honest, when doesn’t she!) it’s best 

you give it! From city-slicker strollers to high-performance jogging options, 

child carrier backpacks to baby bike seats, along with everything-you-need 

accessories (rain covers and seat liners and, we kid you not, snack trays for 

babes with an appetite) head over to thulestore.co.za where the range is 

mind-boggling. Exceptional quality, Swedish designs, the latest technology. 

Bonus ... so many buys for travelling, outdoors-y mums and dads, too. 

WiN ... 

a R10 000 voucher 

to spend at Thulestore.co.za ... 

pop over to 

@getitnationalmagazines 

on instagram before 

March 25 to enter 

spoil 

March 


EXPLORE THE BEAUTY OF 

THANDA SAFAR I 

Experience a world of wilderness and wildlife, matched with a deep commitment to Zulu culture and environmental 

conservation. Thanda means ‘Love’ in the language of the Zulu people, and Thanda Safari lives this ethos in the management 

of its 14 000-hectare reserve, its three unique properties and its community partnerships. Enjoy an authentic African safari 

at this Big Five private game reserve, located amongst the breathtaking, rolling hills of Zululand in KwaZulu Natal. 

Plan your stay with us: +27 (0)32 586 0149 

reservations@thanda.co.za | www.thandasafari.co.za

Mar 23 - Lowveld

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