Iconic centre’s celebration promises unmatched shopping offers Johannesburg, 3 September 2023: Sandton City, Africa’s premium shopping destination, is thrilled to announce its upcoming 50th-anniversary that will be celebrated with an exquisite retail festival. The unique one-day event, taking place on Tuesday 12 September 2023, promises a day filled with an extraordinary shopping experience, outstanding exclusive offers, and a jubilant atmosphere, as the iconic mall marks five decades of exceptional service and superior retail. Since its inception in 1973, Sandton City has commanded a unique position of high-end retail, drawing shoppers from across the world to experience its diverse array of over 300 premium retailers, that reflect the most beloved brands from both within South Africa and internationally. As the mall reaches this remarkable milestone, the 50th-anniversary retail festival is a tribute to its commitment to offering unparalleled shopping experiences. Visitors to the centre on the day can expect an array of delights, including: Irresistible retailer offers, complimentary gifts and added value: Shoppers will be treated to an array of exclusive offers, at over 90 stores in the centre, ensuring that purchases are accompanied by unbeatable value at participating retailers. For example, Alpha Industries is offering a free t-shirt with any jacket purchased; at Fabiani, the first 50 customers will get 50% off anything in store, at Karl Lagerfeld, an exclusive KARL gift will accompany every in-store purchase over R 5 000; and uniQbrows will offer free Iconic Intense brown brow tints, to name a few. These offers are valid on Tuesday 12 September at Sandton City only, terms & conditions apply. Extended Trading Hours: Sandton City recognizes that celebrations should know no time constraints. To accommodate the festivity, the mall will extend its trading hours, granting guests ample time to explore and enjoy, with most stores in the centre staying open till 9:00 PM on the day. Live entertainment: From 12 noon, shoppers can enjoy complimentary live musical performances by, some of South Africa’s top artists, DJ Zinhle, Goodluck, Holly Rey and Kings of Weekend in the centre court outside Checkers. Spend and win competition: Shoppers who spend R 500 or more between 1 – 12 September at any of their favourite stores in Sandton City, may enter a competition to win a R 50 000 Sandton City gift card, with the entry box conveniently placed in the centre court. Additionally, Sandton City will unveil a captivating History Wall installation, on the fourth level, in close proximity to Clicks, Woolworths, Toy Kingdom and Loads of Living, providing visitors with an opportunity to journey through time. This installation showcases the centre’s evolution from its inception to the present day, offering a glimpse into the rich history and transformative journey since its development, and how the remarkable centre has stayed at the forefront of African retail. Dimitri Kokinos, Asset Manager of Sandton City, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming 50th-anniversary retail festival, stating, “We are immensely proud to celebrate five decades of excellence in retail. Sandton City has been an iconic symbol of luxury, innovation, style and community for fifty years. As we embark on this milestone, we are excited to offer shoppers a day filled with exuberant experiences and unforgettable retail moments, while paying tribute to the centre’s legacy as a retail haven, offering an unparalleled mix of luxury brands, fashion, lifestyle, and dining experiences.” For more information and regular updates go to www.sandtoncity.com (http://www.sandtoncity.com)or follow the centre on social media @SandtonCitymall.(https://www.facebook.com/sandtoncity)

Thonga’s 12 eco-sensitive rooms are positioned to create minimal environmental impact and afford maximum privacy. They offer ocean or forest views, with the Deluxe Ocean View Rooms sporting private plunge pools. Surrounded by such natural beauty stirs something special within your soul, igniting a spirit of adventure and leaving you with a lasting impression. Natural materials of thatch, reeds and wood, sourced from the area create a seamless flow, while providing authentic textures to the minimalist spaces. Each room is on a raised platform nestled among indigenous forest in undulating dunes. Expansive glass windows and doors let in the ocean breeze and sounds, freeing one’s spirit and senses. Dreamy crisp linen and mosquito nets adorn the beds, while soft down-lighting creates a peaceful, serene ambience, perfect after a day under the African sun. Your very own wooden deck reaches out into the forest where you can enjoy morning coffee amidst birdsong, or cocktails under starlight. You can also enjoy excellent cuisine, al fresco on the dining deck or beach deck overlooking the sea. Treading lightly in this paradise will make you feel rejuvenated by nature and give you a special connection with the harmony of this extraordinary place. ACCOMMODATION AT THONGA This 24-bed luxury lodge is the ideal place to connect with one of Africa’s last pristine wilderness beaches and rediscover your place in it. The 12 thatched eco-sensitive rooms, with ocean or forest views, boast an earthy elegance, and are positioned to afford maximum privacy and minimal environmental impact. OCEAN VIEW ROOM Experience a room with breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, an airy bedroom complete with open plan bathroom and private deck. DELUXE OCEAN VIEW FAMILY ROOM (very secluded) This stunning room with exquisite sea views is perfect for families who want a seamless connection with the ocean, all the way to the horizon. (This Room consists of 2 ensuite bedrooms joined by an expansive deck with its own private plunge pool) DELUXE OCEAN VIEW HONEYMOON SUITE (very secluded) This spacious suite has sweeping views of the ocean and a private plunge pool, a setting you’ll fall in love with. Thonga Beach Lodge is a perfect destination for an idyllic “Robinson Crusoe” beach honeymoon. Your private luxury beach Honeymoon Suite is situated in an indigenous forest, surrounded by sounds of the sea. A romantic king size bed is dressed in crisp linen and dreamy mosquito netting. Enjoy a wide bath with complimentary bubble bath and candles in the privacy of your beach retreat. FOREST VIEW These rooms have a uniquely tranquil charm, nestled in the coastal dune on the forest’s edge, which throngs with bird life. FOREST VIEW FAMILY ROOM These rooms are ideal for families travelling with children, perfect for sharing this unique location and intimate connection with the spectacular setting. TURTLE MONITORING IN THE ISIMANGALISO WETLAND PARK During turtle season (Nov-Feb) we arrange one turtle drive every night at low tide. Due to the concession legislation we have access to the beach at the low tide mark for 4 hours. We are permitted to drive the length of the beach looking for the females and the hatchlings. There is a charge for the turtle drives but no charge for turtle walks.Night drives are tide-dependent and may happen just after dinner or in the early hours of the morning and can sometimes be as long as three hours. NESTING Both loggerhead and leatherback turtles nest during the summer months at night (November – February). Steep beach faces make it easy for loggerheads to swim through the surf over low lying rock ledges. The females emerge from the surf and rest in the wash zone on the beach. Here they assess the beach for any danger by lifting their heads and scanning the beach. Satisfied that there is no danger they then proceed up the beach to well above the high water mark. EGG LAYING Having found a suitable site, the female commences by excavating a body pit, this enables her to lie with the top of her carapace level with the beach. She then digs an egg cavity with her hind flippers. The egg pit is a flask shaped hole about 50-80 centimetres deep. A normal clutch constitutes 100-120 soft white shelled eggs which are deposited into this hole. When all of the eggs have been laid the female fills the hole with sand and kneads the surface until the sand is packed hard. Once this is done, she disguises the nest site by throwing sand with her fore flippers over the nesting area. Leatherbacks can return up to seven times to lay eggs, while loggerheads return up to four times in a single season. HATCHING Loggerhead turtle eggs take between 55-65 days to mature and leatherback turtle eggs take between 65-70 days. Once ready to emerge the hatchlings cut their way out of the egg with a special egg tooth on the end of their beaks. After the bulk of the eggs have hatched the hatchlings start digging at the sides of the nest. The hatchlings will often wait during the heat of the day, until the sand has cooled before emerging and heading to the sea. The most serious threats that are present at various life stages 1. Nesting – Egg collecting, slaughtering for meat, coastal development, sand mining and beach driving 2. Home Ranges – (coral reefs, sea grass beds, open oceans) These are disturbed or destroyed by bad fishery practices, pollution and global warming. 3. Migration Movements – Their migration routes are threatened by trawlers or drift nets and long lines. Littering in the Sea – The leatherbacks feed mostly on jellyfish – with the serious problem of plastic bags littering our seas, the bags are often ingested by turtles who choke on this toxic waste. SCUBA DIVING AT THONGA BEACH LODGE SCUBA diving at Thonga Beach is phenomenal, with reefs located a short distance from the lodge. Shoals of game fish, sharks and schools of bottlenose dolphins are often seen. Our professional lodge diving team accommodates all enthusiasts; from the beginner to the veteran, wanting a tour of the very best our reefs have to offer. 1,250 fish species (the Great Barrier Reef has 1500) occur on the reefs in this area. Dives are from a semi-rigid dive boat which accommodates a maximum of 8 divers at a time. To get to our reefs, we start with a shore entry boat launch, where the skipper, dive master and divers, with the help of a tractor, push our7 metre boat into the surf, directly in front of the lodge. This is a normal boat launch procedure for this part of the coastline and for most guests, probably the first time they will have experienced a launch of this nature. It is exciting and adventurous however the launch can be strenuous, so a reasonable level of fitness is required. Diving is weather and tide dependant. SCUBA training is available at our PADI dive centre. If you are already certified, please bring proof of your diving qualification. We regret no children under 10 years, but kids aged 10 and up can do a Discover SCUBA Diving (DSD) or Open Water Diver Course. Please note that guests must be of a reasonable fitness level to dive. Dive sites: · Gogo’s · Brewer’s Gardens · Pine / Yellowfin · Coral Alley · Slingers · Water World · 3 Sisters / Coachman’s Ledge THE SEA SPA Your much-needed me-time starts at our onsite spa, which offers a wide selection of rejuvenation and beauty treatments for you to look and - more importantly - feel your best. Enjoy the ultimate in beachside bliss when you spoil yourself with an invigorating session at our world-class spa. Take a look at the tempting treatments on our spa menu… you deserve it. SPA ETIQUETTE Spa Facilities Our spa experience is relaxing, calming and rejuvenating to our stressful bodies. To ensure the best experience for all guests using the spa, please keep your voices low. Punctuality Please arrive 15 min early to assist with the paperwork for your pampering. Spa Treatments As in nature, things outside of our control can change and prices are subject to change without notice. Please note, the spa does not accept credit cards directly and treatments will be charged to the guest’s room account. General All ages are welcome, guests under the age of 16 years adult supervision is required. FOOD WITH THOUGHT Chef Carl Moller is the Executive Head Chef of Isibindi Africa Lodges. He is a true creative who combines a love of cooking with beautiful plating skills and a passion for photography. Carl is a KwaZulu-Natal local, born in Durban and schooled in Hillcrest. He has been passionate about food from an early age, which led him to complete his training at the Chantecler Hotel in Bothas Hill. After graduating, Carl worked at various restaurants in both Durban and Johannesburg, including Durban’s well-known Café 1999. He also ran his own catering company for a while. As a keen angler, trail runner, swimmer, diver and general outdoorsman, the opportunity to work and live in Thonga Beach Lodge’s pristine marine environment was too good to pass up. Carl joined the team in 2009 and has been wowing our guests with his culinary creations ever since. With his focus on sustainability, Carl’s food philosophy is closely aligned with the Isibindi brand. In our lodges’ remote and ecologically-significant locations, it is vital for social, economic and environmental factors to work symbiotically and interdependently. Carl believes that incorporating these principles into his food and choice of suppliers enhances sustainability from the ground up. Carl sources many of his ingredients from ethical suppliers - like stone ground flour, unrefined sea salt, sustainable seafood and fish that is approved by the South African Sustainable Seafood Initiative (SASSI). He also seeks out local suppliers, sourcing community-grown vegetables and fruit as well as locally-farmed products such as cashew nuts and dried pineapple. Carl is a keen supporter of seasonal cooking, and his signature dishes vary according to the produce, fish and game available at that time of year.

We can't wait to have you back! South Africa removed from the UK Red List. #MeetSouthafricaNow VITAL INFORMATION TIME ZONE GMT+1 (UK & Ireland Summer), GMT+2 (UK & Ireland Winter). FLIGHT TIME Fly direct with British Airways and Virgin Atlantic. 11 hours from London to Jo'burg or 12 hours from London to Cape Town. CURRENCY The Pound remains strong against the Rand (local currency). See the latest conversion here. South Africa is the second cheapest long-haul destination for Brits according Post Office Holiday Money Report 2021. I.e: A glass of wine costs around £2.99, a coffee £1.57 and for a dinner with wine for two you would pay £35. LANGUAGES South Africa has 11 official languages. English is widely spoken throughout the country. TIPPING South Africa is similar to the UK, with 10-15% customary in restaurants and for tour guides. BEST TIME TO VISIT South Africa is a year-round destination with the climate varying all over the country. Summer runs from November to March, making the south west hot and dry, while the winter brings mild, dry temperatures to the tropical north east coast. VISA INFORMATION British citizens don’t need to obtain a visa for stays of up to 90 days. See requirements for children travelling through South African ports of entry here. DRIVING As in the UK, South Africans drive on the left-hand side of the road. Hiring a vehicle is one of the most affordable options for getting around and also one of the best ways to experience the nation’s breathtaking scenery. TRANSFERS Pre-booked transfers offer a relaxing way of seeing the country. TAXIS Metered taxies are widely available throughout the country, especially in urban areas. Popular taxi apps — such as Uber — are great for getting around cities. Check COVID-19 updates here

Ingredients 1 ½ cups of oatmeal flour** ¼ cup of quick cooking oatmeal flakes ¼ cup flax seed One egg 1 small jar of banana and apple baby food*** 1 Teaspoon of honey 1 1/2 Tablespoons of water (more or less) Method 1. Preheat the oven to 125 degrees (C.) 2. Mix the oatmeal flower, oatmeal, and flax seed together in a large bowl. 3. Add the egg, baby food, and honey to the powdered mixture and stir. If the mixture is dry, add the water. 4. Sprinkle the counter with oatmeal flour and roll the dough out into a thin sheet. 5. Either cut the dough into biscuits using a cookie cutter (I have one that shaped like a dog bone), cut the dough into round shapes using the baby food jar as a cookie cutter, or use a knife to cut the dough into squares. 6. Transfer the cookies onto a cookie sheet and bake in the oven for 15-30 minutes. The cookies are ready to come out of the oven when they are a fully cooked semi-soft cookie treat for your favorite pooch. 7. Allow the cookies to cool and let the training games begin!

There’s something so indulgent and satisfying about a pile of warm, doughy flapjacks covered in a shiny, golden layer of syrup that instantly puts a smile on my face. By adding ricotta to these flap jacks, they become fluffy and incredibly light (which makes it easier to eat more than you are meant to). I also love the addition of the beautiful blueberries. Not only are they a ‘superfood’ but they are also one of my favourite fruits. Sweet and just a tiny bit tangy, they’re the perfect thing to serve with a stack of flap jacks. As mentioned, the only way to serve these are stacked high with a generous drizzle of syrup. Coffee, orange juice and the morning paper are all optional, but certainly recommended! Blueberry & Ricotta Flapjacks Recipe Recipe Ingredients 1 cup (250 g) SPAR Cake Flour 2 tsp (10 ml) baking powder A pinch of salt 2 tbsp (30 ml) SPAR Caster Sugar 1 egg 1/2 cup (125 ml) SPAR Full Cream Milk 50ml SPAR Butter, melted 1 tub (270 g) ricotta A handful of fresh blueberries SPAR Honey (for serving) Recipe Method Combine the egg, milk, butter and ricotta in a separate bowl and mix well. Make a well in the centre of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet ingredients. Gently mix in the wet ingredients until you have a smooth batter. Fry spoonfuls of the mixture in a warm, non-stick frying pan. Add a generous tablespoon of blueberries to the uncooked side of each flapjack before turning. Remove the flapjacks from the pan and keep warm in an oven until ready to serve. Serve with honey or syrup and fresh blueberries. This recipe is sponsored by SPAR For all the above ingredients shop online using https://www.spar.co.za/ or visit your nearest store.

Smell is often called humans' most powerful sense, and good (and bad) smells tell us a lot about the world: what we should eat, even whom we should kiss. When it comes to our homes, if a space smells fresh, that's a great sign. If the smell is bad? We feel uneasy. But the secret to a nose-friendly space isn't to spray fragrance on top of yucky stuff: "A clean home should smell like nothing. THE BEST ROOMS FOR SCENTED CANDLES BEDROOM Your bedroom is a place of rest, relaxation and tranquillity, so it’s important to set a scene to reflects that peaceful atmosphere. Vanilla is a good choice for a relaxing bedroom scent, as it can help you drift off into a soothing slumber-filled sleep with pleasant dreams. Similarly, if you use your bedroom to unwind and take a break after a busy day, the delicate notes of sandalwood fragrances can help lift stress and send you off to serenity for the rest of the evening. For a romantic atmosphere, try rich scents such as lemongrass, lime & ginger, Rooibos and sandalwood; these essences are said to contain aphrodisiacal qualities that can really set the mood. BATHROOM The bathroom is another perfect room for relaxation; imagine sinking into an indulgent bubble bath after a long, trying day and enjoying the beautiful aroma of a scented candle as the stresses of the day melt away! Vanilla & Bergamot fragrances are a glorious bathtime treat, as they immerse your senses into relaxation. Linen scents are also known for their calming and invigorating effect. For a fresh bathroom ambience, adorn your bathing space with citrus, mint or ocean-inspired scented candles for a light ambience that makes your home feel clean and contemporary. For a delicious, long lasting scented candle that will satisfy every mood follow @growlightsa who create beautiful flavors to match their high quality products. When your home smells divine, it goes deeper than just having a house you can feel proud of and at peace in. Inhaling certain scents can actually have an impact on our mood; for example, the smell of a soothing Vanilla candle can help you to feel relaxed, or the fresh scent of newly washed linen can give you a boost of energy. But how is this so? According to a psychology expert at Brown University, scents evoke certain moods through associative learning. This refers to the way our brains tie memories together, so when you pick up a scent that reminds you of something specific, your brain reacts to the memory and influences your mood accordingly. This is why the scent of a vanilla candle might make you feel happy, if it reminds you of baking with your parents or grandparents in the past. MELT LEFTOVER WAX WITH A WAX BURNER Ever have little bits of wax left over, even after your wick is no longer able to light? You can still use this scented wax to fragrance your home - simply pop it into the top of a wax burner and let the intense scent fill the room. Melting wax in this way means that the scent lasts longer, keeping your home smelling magnificent at all times. (Grow Light Wax Melts) PLACE UNLIT CANDLES NEXT TO FABRICS You can even enhance the smell of your home without actually lighting your candles! Placing your favourite scents next to fabrics such as curtains and drapes can create an elegant house aroma, as these materials can absorb the candle’s scent. Just remember to move your candle away from any soft materials before you light it! Purchase yours here - https://www.boulevee.com/products/home-made-scented-candles/

The vanilla scent has recently become more popular than ever before. There are more and more people who are realizing the amazing benefits of the vanilla scent. While vanilla is in such high demand, it is also more expensive than many other scents. Feeling Relaxed One of the best things about vanilla-scented aromatherapy candles is that they may help you to feel more relaxed. Vanilla is used widely to help calm the mind and body. Many people who smell vanilla will say they feel warm and happy. If you are looking to promote relaxation in your life, you would benefit from lighting vanilla-scented aromatherapy candles. These candles can help to reduce anxiety, as well. Improved Sleep If you haven’t been sleeping well, you could benefit from using vanilla-scented aromatherapy candles. The vanilla scent can help to promote relaxation, as mentioned above. When you are feeling more relaxed, you can get better quality sleep. Feeling relaxed will help to relieve the tension in your body and mind. You can try to light a vanilla-scented aromatherapy candle shortly before you get in bed. Just be sure to blow it out before you go to sleep. Many people who have used these candles have fallen asleep quicker and slept for longer. Aphrodisiac Vanilla essential oils that are in candles may work as an aphrodisiac, as well. This is because this type of oil works similarly to that of human pheromones. Smelling vanilla may increase someone’s testosterone or estrogen levels, making them more attracted to someone. Relieving Symptoms of PMS Those who suffer from moderate to severe PMS symptoms need relief. Fortunately, vanilla-scented aromatherapy candles may help with this. Research shows that this scent helps to boost the production of estrogen which can relieve symptoms such as cramping, fatigue, bloating, and mood swings. Buy your Vanilla Scented candles today from @GrowlightSA using @boulevee.com . Purchase yours here 🕯️= https://www.boulevee.com/products/home-made-scented-candles/

POWERED BY NITRO(X) The defending Lipton Cup team, Nitro sailing for Witbank Yacht & Aquatic Club (WYAC), won the third and final compulsory race of the 2021 Lipton Cup going away from the fleet in grand style. Today was one of those very tricky ones with shifty wind directions, and speeds going up and down. The only saving grace was the flat water. An inland sailor who knows the Witbank Yacht & Aquatic Club team well said that their flat water experience was the deciding factor in their fine victory today. Another wag was convinced it was all down to Nitrox! Whatever it was they won convincingly having led from start to finish, and were never really threatened by anyone at any time. In fact at every mark they extended their time on the fleet, and sailed hard and fast, while reading the conditions absolutely perfectly. Second on the day was the Royal Natal Yacht Club who at one point looked as if they had blown their second place and dropped to fourth, but they fought back tenaciously and finished that leg in second spot, and never looked back. Having been the rooster yesterday they came close to being the feather duster today! What is interesting is that the overall winner of the three compulsory courses is the Royal Natal Yacht Club, however the overall winner of the event after five races is the Royal Cape Yacht Club. Today was a tough and character building day for all competitors who are hoping that the huge black clouds surrounding the course today disappear overnight and are replaced by a good steady sailable wind. The good news is that having had to isolate for COVID reasons and missing the first five races, the team from Zeekoei Vlei Yacht Club will be back on the water tomorrow (Thursday) - and no doubt looking to leave their mark with good results. RESULTS - after 5 races 1 Royal Cape Yacht Club - 9 points 2 Royal Natal Yacht Club - 11 points 3 Witbank Yacht & Aquatic Club - 13 points 4 Aeolians Club - 17 points Further information from the Royal Cape Yacht Club Kerry Pryde (Contest Secretary) sailadmin@rcyc.co.za 064 652 6316 Richard Crockett (Media) sailing@iafrica.com 083 265 3885

Crocworld Conservation Centre on the KZN South Coast has some great news for families in need of a fun weekend activity in a safe, relaxed environment – the centre is open to the public once again! “It’s been an incredibly difficult time for South African citizens this past week, but through the combined efforts of the community, our security and law enforcement, Crocworld and its residents were kept safe throughout,” said Crocworld Conservation Centre’s Centre Manager, James Wittstock. “We’re all in need of a bit of an unwind now, and with our beautiful grounds home to more than 400 interesting and exciting animals, this is the perfect space to bond with the family while drawing on the rejuvenating energy of the natural world. We’re also delighted to announce that our popular Fish Eagle Café is open to patrons looking for delicious food with exceptional sea views!” Visitors should take note that the country is under Adjusted Alert Level 4 restrictions and all Covid-19 protocols will be in place including mandatory mask wearing, social distancing and sanitising. For more information about Crocworld Conservation Centre, visit www.crocworld.co.za or ‘Crocworld Conservation Centre’ on Facebook & Instagram, or contact Crocworld Conservation Centre on 039 976 1103. Images: Supplied by Crocworld Conservation Centre Issued on behalf of: James Wittstock Centre Manager: Crocworld Conservation Centre Disseminated by: Olivia Jones Communications For more information please contact: Olivia Jones Communications Cell: 083 653 1720 Email: media@oliviajones.co.za

Monday, 19 July 2021:It is with a heavy heart that RX Venue Management today announces that after 20 years of being the management company of South Africa’s largest multipurpose indoor arena, The Ticketpro Dome has now been sold by the owners, Sasol Pension Fund, to a third party which does not operate in the event space. This is another devasting blow for the exhibitions, events, and entertainment industry due to Covid-19. The ban on public gatherings has meant that during 2020 and now 2021, the Ticketpro Dome has been unable to operate. Carol Weaving, MD of RX Africa says: “The selling of the Ticketpro Dome, is extremely disappointing and heartbreaking for our industry. The Ticketpro Dome has been home to many international concerts and events in South Africa, and this will undoubtedly leave a huge void. Unfortunately, as we are only the managing company, we were unable to change the outcome of Sasol Pension Fund selling the venue due to force majeure.” The Ticketpro Dome solidified global recognition with companies and promoters throughout several industries and will be remembered as an iconic venue across the events, exhibitions, and entertainment sectors. The Dome opened on 8 April 1998 with a concert by Diana Ross attended by over 15 000 people with a special guest appearance by the late former President Nelson Mandela. Over the years, the venue has played host to top international music artists such as Pink, Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, Lauren Hill, Pharrell Williams, Celine Dion and Michael Buble. On the local front, artists such as Prime Circle, The Parlotones, Lira, Tonya De Lazy, Black Coffee, and Soweto Gospel Choir has graced the stage. South African rapper, Cassper Nyovest become the first local artist to sell out the Dome. Some 20 000 tickets were sold even before the event, suitably billed ‘Fill Up The Dome’. On the exhibition front, the Dome has been home to many consumer and trade shows such as Homemakers Fair, Rage, Mama Magic Baby Show, Fire and Feast Food Festival, Mediatech Africa and Africa Automation Technology Fair. In 2017, the NBA Africa Games were held at the Dome and WWE International and Disney on Ice has also been staged there. In 2020, the Ticketpro Dome launched the successful Hybrid Studio in response to the global pandemic. “Our sector has been extraordinarily innovative in transforming our offerings to accommodate online participation, but a hybrid event incurs two sets of costs, one for the online component and one for the in-venue aspect. Attendance capacity restrictions make in-person events unviable, and online does not carry the same appeal,” says Projeni Pather, Chairperson of the Association of African Exhibition Organisers. THE ECONOMIC IMPACT OF EVENTS According to a recent News 24 article, the cultural and creative services sector contribute more than R74.4 billion a year to the South African economy. They also have a multiplier impact because they generate tourism and increase retail spending in host city economies. Furthermore, they contribute towards the production of goods and services for consumption at events and in host cities and create employment for unskilled and semi-skilled workers and low-income households. If you take that into account, the cultural economy accounted for R241.8 billion or an equivalence of 5.6% of GDP. Tourism contributes about R400 billion to the economy every year, and events are a substantial contributor – because people travel to go to concerts, business meetings, sporting events, weddings, exhibitions, conferences and so on, in what has been labelled the "experiential economy". Tourism also employs about 800 000 people, so the pandemic has affected two million people in the two industries combined – industries that collectively contribute about R500 billion or 10% of GDP (not including the multiplier effect) to the economy each year and employs 15% of the country's workers. According to, Ismail Mahomed, Director of the Centre for Creative Arts at University of KwaZulu-Natal, “Government has failed miserably in serving the arts, cultural and entertainment sector right through the lockdown period by not establishing an Advisory Committee of industry specialists that could work together with the Department of Sports, Arts & Culture to develop and implement a relief, rehabilitation and recuperation strategy for the sector. “The Department of Arts & Culture can no longer continue to operate with its head in the sand and ignore the economic challenges of the sector and the important contribution of the sector to South Africa’s economy and to the country’s wellbeing”. The South African Events Council (SAEC) has been lobbing government, since its inception in 2020, to let the live events industry operate within Covid-19 safety regulations. If shopping centres can operate so too should event and exhibition venues. SAEC wants- government to allow venues to operate at 50% capacity so that the industry can start rebuilding. The Ticketpro Dome is the latest causality of not being able to operate and the consequences of its closure will have a ripple effect on the South African economy. It is too late for the Ticketpro Dome but may its final curtain call be a sober reminder that there needs to be drastic rethinking on how the South Africa government views our industry. The official handover of the venue will be on 7 September 2021. For enquires: Cynthia Penprase GM: Ticketpro Dome cynthia@ticketprodome.co.za Martin Hiller PR: Ticketpro Dome Martin.hiller@reedexpoafrica.co.za

Fire & Dining Ovens have a variety of high quality ovens and sizes, at an affordable price. We use the finest and highest quality refractory materials for our ovens. OUR DELICIOUS STORY With years of experience in outdoor lifestyle we decided to build our first ever pizza oven. With lots of trials and testing we found the perfect formula to build a very reliable and effective pizza oven at a competitive and fair pricing structure. We use only the best materials to build our ovens. We love seeing family spending time together around a wood fired pizza ovens and made it our business to get family come together. Our Ovens We only use the highest quality refractory materials to manufacture our wood fired pizza and bread ovens. This ensures not only durability but also fast heat-up times with increased thermal mass from the firebrick retains the heat well and give you long cooking time. Our design gives you best convection oven to give even heat distribution heating the floor and giving you excellent baking surface for pizza, bread or roasts. Our Products and Services Tried and tested material used for fast heating. Ovens are available DIY assembling or custom on-site installations. A Choice of Firebrick floor to withstand the intense heat up to 1400 degrees or Firescreet that can withstand 1600 degrees. Dome made out of refractory material to withstand temperatures up to 1400 degrees. Inside oven insulation to retain heat, ideal for baking pizza’s as well as grilling, baking and roasting. Additional extra’s include paint, face brick, plaster and mosaic. Ovens are safe to use as the outer dome stays cool to the touch, whilst the inside and flue maintain a heat in excess of 400 degrees. How do I cure my oven Curing is very important Its important to cure your oven because ovens is casted weekly and and water is strapped in the oven walls, to get rid of the moisture gradually you want to heat it up gradually and let it cool down to get rid of this moisture. If you heat your oven to fast the moisture will cause steam that will cause cracks The best way to cure your oven is by building small, controlled, smoldering fires inside the dome. You can adjust how hot they burn based on their size and how much fuel you add to them. Here’s the recommended day-by-day process of curing your oven: Day One: Heat your oven to 140 °F / 60 °C for 4-5 hours Day Two: Repeat at 215 °F / 100 °C for 4-5 hours Day Three: Repeat at 300 °F / 150 °C for 4-5 hours Day Four: Repeat at 400 °F / 200 °C for 4-5 hours Day Five: Repeat at 480 °F / 250 °C for 4-5 hours What about cracks? Due to heating and cooling oven you would find hairline cracks may appear. Cracks won’t affect your oven performance and all refractory material do crack because of thermal expansion. If you are annoyed by the cracks you can can use roof membrane and sealer to close it. Do & don’ts Never wash your oven or oven floor, this will cause the oven to absorb moisture. Although your oven materials is rated for 1400 degrees Celsius this is not recommended because if would affect your oven life time. The oven maximum operating temperature is 400 degrees Celsius; you would never have the neat to go over this temperature in cooking anything. Never throw would into your oven this might crack your oven walls. The pizza oven wasn’t built to heat a room or making a boma fire, please take care of your oven like you would have taken care of your house hold oven. Your oven isn’t built for structural applications so please handle with care its fragile. How do I build a fire in my pizza oven? To build a fire in your oven stack your wood in square in front of your oven adding your burning fuel in the middle, know put another piece of wood at the bottom and push your fire wood to the back of your oven. Operating temperature for baking pizzas would be around 300 to 350 degrees Celsius. If the correct firewood is used your temperature would be ready to use withing 25 min after starting your fire. Cooking a pizza would be below 180 seconds. You would only use the oven whilst burning wood is in it to bake pizzas. For bread baking or roasting you would use a fire that have burned down and have nice coals to roast or bake with and by closing your oven door the heat would be retained longer and oven temperatures would be steady. For Bookings and FAQ Andre Becker T: 083 438 1485 E: andre@fireanddining.co.za W: https://www.fireanddining.co.za/

The African bush elephants' wrinkled skin is one of its most defining characteristics. Scientists know that the wrinkles help elephants stay cool. That's because the wrinkles trap moisture. There was something they did not know, however. How does their skin get wrinkly? A new study offers a surprising explanation for elephants' wrinkly skin. The mammals' skin thickens over time. New layers of skin place pressure on the outermost layer of skin. This outer layer is called the stratum corneum. This pressure makes the skin wrinkle. At first, scientists thought that elephant skin wrinkled like dried mud or damaged concrete. The new study's co-author is Michel Milinkovitch. He works at the University of Geneva and studies animals' bodies and how they change. In a 2013 study, Milinkovitch found that shrinking skin made the scaly folds seen on crocodiles' skin. Comparing Elephants To Crocodiles Milinkovitch and his coworkers took close-up looks at elephant skin samples. They created a computer model that simulated skin growth in order to see similarities between crocodiles and elephants. The team expected to see the skin shrink. The layers actually appeared to bend. Milinkovitch said it seems odd that wrinkly skin would be helpful. The scientists' findings make sense, though. Elephants lack the sweat and sebum glands that most mammals rely on to keep cool. For example, humans sweat when we get hot. Instead, elephants must splash around in a pool of water or mud. Thanks to their cracked skin, they end up keeping five to 10 times more moisture than a smooth skin surface. As this liquid evaporates, it helps elephants to cool their body temperature. It helps prevent dehydration, or losing too much water. The cracking seen in elephant skin is usually seen in non-living things. The elephant's skin cracks because of skin layers bending. Most living things that have cracked appearances get it because their tissues get folded up. Elephants' unusual skin actually has a lot in common with humans who have a skin disease called ichthyosis vulgaris. This condition affects 1 out of every 250 people. The disease prevents the shedding of dead skin cells. The shedding of dead skin cells helps our skin stay smooth. The disease has no cure but is often treated with moisturizers. The disease makes the skin dry, thick and scaly. This is a problem for humans, but it's great for African elephants. As skin cells pile up, they bend the outer layer. These cracks help them to stay cool. Milinkovitch said that shedding skin makes the skin smooth again. If the elephants shed their skin, the skin would not get thick and they would not get the wrinkles. "In humans, this is not a helpful problem," he said. Scientists Will Study Baby Elephants Scientists must keep looking for a link between elephant skin and ichthyosis vulgaris. A link would be an example of how a harmful human change is great for other animals, experts said. This study might help scientists find a cure for humans with the disease. Milinkovitch's next step will be to watch the growth of a newborn African elephant. "We would like to follow the cracking on the skin of a baby African elephant to understand the dynamic of the process," he said. He has many questions about how the cracks start forming. "It's a new, beautiful example of how physical processes are involved in the development of animal forms and shapes."

More than a year of life in lockdown, and the harsher restrictions imposed amidst the 3rd wave of infections, has put immense strain on non-profit organisations (NPOs) that are struggling to remain operational. As a way to show support to the tireless work being done by South African animal welfare organisations during this difficult time, Bravecto® launched its innovative #BravectoCares campaign, donating thousands of its product to pre-selected organisations. This June was the third official handover, with Phoenix Animal Care and Treatment (PACT) visited on Thursday, 24 June and The Society for Animals in Distress on Monday, 28 June. “When we launched the #BravectoCares campaign earlier this year, we had an overwhelming response from animal welfare NPOs who are struggling to perform their daily duties as donations have slowed and fundraising events aren’t possible right now,” explained Carolyn Chelchinskey, Business Unit Manager at MSD Animal Health, makers of Bravecto®. “The new Level 4 restrictions, while vital to stop the spread, will make this situation even more difficult. That’s why we’re committed to continuing the #BravectoCares campaign to assist these organisations in helping the most vulnerable animals in whatever way we can.” #BravectoCares assists Phoenix Animal Care and Treatment (PACT) The first NPO in the third #BravectoCares handover was Phoenix Animal Care and Treatment (PACT) based in KwaZulu-Natal. Established in 2012, the organisation was primarily committed to the sterilisation of animals in Phoenix and surrounds to reduce the number of unwanted, abused and neglected animals. However, the need for animal intervention was so great that they subsequently increased their reach, rescuing, rehabilitating and re-homing animals as well through to Durban and surrounding townships. “To date, we have rescued, rehabilitated and re-homed over 40 000 animals, and sterilised almost double that,” said PACT co-founder, Neeri Naidoo. “We generally focus on township sterilisation campaigns, partnering with local vets to arrange mobile clinics to treat the animals – many of whom have never before been afforded the luxury of seeing a vet. Because of abuse and neglect, we also rescue animals. We do have a cattery and have identified a property for a dog shelter, but at the moment we have to board rescues at other facilities or, ideally, foster homes.” Neeri explained that, in the townships, there is a desperate need for parasite control dealing with mite infestation, mange, and other skin disorders: “Being a welfare organisation, we’re always in constant need of funds and food, and we don’t always have the luxury of taking animals to the vet, so winning this #BravectoCares donation meant the world to us! “We were over the moon as it means we can reach more animals with skin problems, some of whom don’t even have a strand of fur. We rely on Bravecto® a lot because often animals can’t make follow-up visits for mange, and we deal with animals in remote areas which we can’t get to often, so this will reduce the number of animals who will suffer from tick-borne diseases. This Bravecto® donation means these animals will be afforded the relief they deserve and we are so grateful for that.” She further thanked Bravecto® for doubling its pledge for Bravecto® Spot-On for Cats, saying PACT would be sharing the donation with other organisations performing similar work: “The more animals we reach collectively, the better it is. I’m just grateful so many animals in such diverse areas will benefit - and it’s all thanks to Bravecto®. They’ve not just touched our lives but have changed the lives of so many animals forever.” #BravectoCares assists The Society for Animals in Distress (SAID) The second recipient during the third handover, The Society for Animals in Distress (SAID), is a Gauteng-based organisation that helps at risk animals living in impoverished communities of Gauteng and remote areas throughout South Africa. SAID provides primary veterinary care, animal ownership tuition and veterinary outreaches with a long-term goal of creating a South Africa where animals and their people thrive. Karin Demir, Business Engagement for SAID, said this donation comes at a pressing time: “A growing number of people in communities where SAID operates are battling with job losses. The Covid-19 pandemic has triggered a series of dramatic social changes, leaving thousands of hungry, unsterilised and untreated animals. Bravecto’s® generous donation for the treatment and prevention of tick, flea and mite infestations in dogs and cats will assist SAID veterinary teams in their mission to provide treatment and support for more affected animals.” In May 2021, the Bravecto® team officially kicked off the national #BravectoCares campaign with donations made to the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA), Animal Anti-Cruelty League (AACL) and South African Veterinary Association’s Community Veterinary Clinics (SAVA-CVC). Earlier in June, further donations were made to the Animal Welfare Society of SA Animal Hospital & Care Centre in Philippi, Cape Town and the Transkei Animal Welfare Initiative (TAWI) in Port St John’s, Eastern Cape. The #BravectoCares campaign provides donations of Bravecto® Spot-On for Dogs and Bravecto® Spot-On for Cats. Bravecto® Spot-On for Dogs provides effective protection of four months against ticks, and six months’ protection against fleas, while for cats there is Bravecto® Spot-On for Cats which protects cats against ticks, fleas and ear mites for three months, as well as Bravecto® Plus which protected cats against ticks, fleas and heartworm and it provides a treatment for intestinal worms. Bravecto® It’s is a convenient and affordable method for treating parasites, providing this extended protection through just a single dose. Also included in the Bravecto® range is the popular Bravecto® Chew for dogs which, with a single treatment, provides 12 weeks of flea and tick protection. After treating, Bravecto® Chew starts killing fleas within two hours, effectively killing more than 95% of fleas within 12 hours over the 12-week period. How to get involved in #BravectoCares The #BravectoCares campaign is sponsoring Bravecto® Spot-On to 13 pre-selected and nominated animal welfare organisations. Communities are encouraged to nominate and vote for organisations through the ‘Bravecto South Africa’ Facebook page. To nominate an organisation to receive Bravecto® Spot-On donations, follow the ‘Bravecto South Africa’ (@Bravecto.SouthAfrica) Facebook page. Nominations will open on a regular basis, and you can name or tag an organisation using the #BravectoCares hashtag. The finalists will be announced on Facebook, and supporters are then encouraged to vote for the winner through comments on the post. Winners will be announced on Facebook, and the welcome donation handed over. For more information about #BravectoCares or the Bravecto® range, visit www.bravecto.co.za or @Bravecto.SouthAfrica on Facebook. Issued on behalf of: Bravecto® Disseminated by: Olivia Jones Communications For more information please contact: Olivia Jones Communications Cell: 083 653 1720 Email: media@oliviajones.co.za Received by: The Weekend Magazine info@theweekend.co.za

The Leonardo, South Africa’s tallest building, together with renowned local dance company, Joburg Ballet, has released a video showcasing the iconic building and its outstanding art collection, through the story of dance. The short clip, which can be viewed [below], explores a day in the life of a guest at The Leonardo - from check-in to sunset - using dance as a medium of expression. The elegant trio, dressed by House of Nala, glide through the building passing signature artworks, stopping to enjoy key experiences on the way including AURUM Restaurant, The Leonardo Spa, world-class conference facilities, luxurious rooms, and the soon-to-be-launched, Alto234, Africa’s highest urban bar. “We wanted to tell the story of The Leonardo in a way that is fresh, dynamic, exciting and visually enticing and this was the perfect way to do that,” says Chenee Seeberath, Guest Relations Officer at The Leonardo. “Art is such a cornerstone of all Legacy Hotel and Resorts’ properties; especially at The Leonardo, where there are hundreds of original, local artworks from sculptures, to installations, tapestries and paintings. We wanted to not only highlight the art that our guests can experience, but use the Arts to tell the unique story of this iconic building in a new and an authentic way.” Guests at The Leonardo can dine at a variety of eateries, including Leo’s Lounge & Deli, fine dining at contemporary European restaurant and wine library, AURUM, the wood-fired meal offering, Octo Bar and soon-to-be opened, sky bar, Alto234, on the roof of the iconic building. In addition, facilities at the 55-story building include a world-class gym, outdoor lap pool and The Leonardo Spa, as well as a number of all-purpose conferencing venues and meeting rooms. Art enthusiasts can look forward to weekly art-tours through the Leonardo which will be reinstated once South Africa’s lockdown regulations have been relaxed to Level 3. Click [here] for more information on the art tours and how to book. Issued on behalf of : Legacy hotels & Resorts www.legacyhotels.co.za or like facebook.com/LegacyHotels and follow @LegacyHotels For more information on The Leonardo, log on to www.theleonardo.co.za or like facebook.com/TheLeonardoSandton and follow @TheLeonardoSA on Instagram for regular updates. Issued by : Nicci Mitchell nicciconsultant@gmail.com 0763060201 Received & published by: The Weekend Magazine info@theweekend.co.za

The Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre (Formerly known as the De Wildt Cheetah Centre) was established in 1971. As cheetah were highly endangered at that time and found to be very difficult to breed successfully in captivity, the main aim of the Centre was to develop and establish a successful breeding programme to ensure the future survival of the species, added to this was extensive research which over the years has produced valuable information to this end. Through intense dedication and patience, Ann pioneered a successful breeding programme, which also included discovering the King cheetah. In 1981, the birth of a litter of four cubs which included one king cheetah revealed that this was a genetic variation and not a separate species as thought previously. In 1978 yet another critically endangered species was introduced to the Centre, the African wild dog, second most endangered carnivore in Africa. Once again Ann developed a very successful breeding programme and the Centre continues to maintain a viable genetic pool. Fifty years later the Centre still continues with dedication to assist in the conservation of these endangered species. When Ann started this project, her dream was to release into protected areas. Although there was some success in this over the years, it was sadly not as much as she had hoped for, however, today, under the guidance of her nephew Eric this dream is coming to fruition. The Centre continues to maintain a strong gene pool and works very closely with nature conservation, Ashia cheetah conservation and the Endangered Wildlife Trust as they embark on an exciting project of re-wilding and releasing captive born cheetah into a protected natural habitat. In certain instances, if an animal is not suitable for release for whatever reason, the centre investigates possibilities of a good home for the cheetah and this could include the option of placing it at an accredited facility. Education is also key, and the Centre is open to the public. Tours led by a knowledgeable guide are offered daily and include guided tours, walking tours, tour with cheetah run, and school tours. The Centre is a non- profit organisation and relies solely on income from tours, donations, sponsorship and the adoption programme in order to continue the work that it does. Issued by: The Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre – De Wildt NPO 086-622 Registration Number: 2010/008351/08 VAT registration Number: 4390282863 PO Box 1756 Hartbeespoort 0216 TEL: 063 693 7403 E: marketing@dewildt.co.za T: 063 693 7403 www.dewildt.co.za Received by: The Weekend Magazine info@theweekend.co.za

Johannesburg, South Africa – Canon Europe today announces the launch of the RF 14-35mm F4L IS USM, its widest RF lens to date. The zoom lens completes its RF trinity of kitbag-friendly, compact f/4 lenses which together offer enthusiast and professional photographers a versatile focal range covering 14-200mm. With quiet autofocus, 5.5-stop optical image stabilisation and a 14-35mm focal length incorporating aspherical and UD elements for crystal clear results, the RF 14-35mm F4L IS USM is the perfect lens for shooting landscape and architectural photography, as well as vlogging where content creators need a stable and broad field of view. The RF 14-35mm F4L IS USM joins Canon’s expanding range of class-leading RF lenses, built on the firm foundations of the EOS R System. When coupled with the innovative camera bodies, the full line-up of RF lenses deliver unrivalled optical performance and unlock new possibilities for photographers and videographers. Enabled by the RF Mount communication system, this lens takes advantage of combined lens and in-body image stabilisation on compatible EOS R-series cameras. It achieves a 7-stop benefit, when used with the Canon EOS R5 or EOS R6, with autofocus and control – making it a practical powerhouse for both stills and movie shooting. Compact lens with a wide view Taking advantage of the EOS R System’s large-diameter mount, the RF 14-35mm F4L IS USM achieves a powerful combination of wider coverage, high image quality – all in a compact optical system. Weighing just 540g, the RF 14-35mm F4L IS USM stands alongside the compact, lightweight RF 24-105mm F4L IS USM and RF 70-200mm F4L IS USM lenses to deliver a range of f/4 lenses at different optical lengths that can suit almost any photography need. As with the other lenses in this trinity it shares the same 77mm filter thread and compact form factor, which makes them convenient travel companions – users can be confident, capturing a range of perspectives whilst reducing the size and weight of the kit they carry with them. Offering a broad focal range, the RF 14-35mm F4L IS USM affords photographers the flexibility to capture a multitude of different subjects, including landscape and architecture. The lens features a class leading minimum focus distance of 0.2m and a 0.38x magnification thanks to its rear focusing system. This makes the RF 14-35mm F4L IS USM particularly effective in confined spaces, enabling photographers to squeeze an entire scene into the image. Optical excellence The RF 14-35mm F4L IS USM employs an advanced optical design of three ultra-low dispersion and three glass moulded aspherical lens elements - one of which is both UD and aspherical - that builds on Canon’s 50 years of research and development into aspherical lenses for interchangeable lens cameras. Through extensive investment in lens design and high-precision manufacturing technology, these components feature a non-spherical curvature which gathers light at a single point to reduce aberration and create pin-sharp images, replicating the image quality of Canon’s renowned prime lenses. These elements ensure the highest resolution from edge to edge of the image, which is particularly challenging in wide angle lenses where the presence of spherical aberrations greatly increases. Combined with Canon’s advanced proprietary Subwavelength Structure Coating (SWC) and Air Sphere Coating (ASC), which prevent ghosting and flare, the RF 14-35mm F4L IS USM achieves exceptional sharpness and contrast. Professional, reliable performance for stills and movie Delivering the very best qualities of the L-series, the RF 14-35mm F4L IS USM gives photographers and videographers consistent, precise performance. The rear focus design that enables the close focusing ability of this lens also reduces focus breathing to less than a third of the EF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM. Its Nano USM focus motor delivers fast, smooth, and quiet autofocus; while the wide-angle, fixed f/4 aperture stays constant over the full focal length range ensuring there is no variation in shutter speed or ISO when zooming. When combined with the 5.5-stop Image Stabilizer (IS), increasing to 7-stops when used with Canon’s EOS R5 and EOS R6, the RF 14-35mm F4L IS USM is an essential tool for videographers using the EOS R System, providing steady footage throughout the entire video. Photographers can shoot handheld, even at very low shutter speeds. The RF 14-35mm F4L IS USM employs a control ring to give users fast, direct control of the TV, AV and ISO settings without the need to delve into menus or take their eye away from the viewfinder. Along with the full-time manual focus ring, which leverages L-series weatherproofing for a robust design, photographers and filmmakers can confidently shoot in all conditions. For more information about the RF 14-35mm F4L IS USM visit https://www.canon.co.za/lenses/rf-14-35mm-f4-4l-is-usm-lens/ To find out more about Canon’s aspherical lens technology, please visit: https://global.canon/en/news/2021/20210527.html Issued by PR Agency – Flume Monica Braganca van der Spuy or Boitumelo Mogano t. +27 087 701 5516 e. monica@flume.co.za or boitumelo@flume.co.za Received & Published through The Weekend Magazine info@theweekend.co.za

While the latest lockdown Level 4 regulations have put a dampener on some winter holiday plans, Crocworld Conservation Centre on the KZN South Coast is still able to keep holidaymakers entertained with great food and outdoor animal viewings in line with current Covid-19 regulations. “With schools closing earlier than originally anticipated, and the newly-introduced Level 4 regulations putting a halt to many events and activities, it’s really fortunate that Crocworld Conservation Centre is still able to welcome visitors while adhering to all necessary health and safety protocols,” said Crocworld Conservation Centre’s Centre Manager, James Wittstock. “Our incredible team at Fish Eagle Café has come up with an innovative outdoor dining solution for patrons, and while there won’t be any feedings or animal interactions, visitors can still walk around the open-air facility and check out the more than 400 animals found here.” Grab a bite! The on-site Fish Eagle Café is showing its commitment to the environment by phasing out polystyrene products and single-use plastic in favour of eco-friendly packaging such as bamboo containers and paper bags. In addition, to the café’s green initiatives, hungry patrons will be able to order off the full Fish Eagle Café menu – including the new Gourmet Burger menu - and enjoy their eats as a takeaway anywhere in the beautiful centre. Visitors can bring their own blanket and dine on the lawns, or grab a bite on one of the many seating options available. The café, which is open from 9am to 4pm every day, is also hosting some fantastic special offers. These include a crispy chicken burger with jalapeno sauce and chips for only R59, and any kiddie’s meal gets a free slush puppy included. For those patrons who are reluctant to leave their car, orders can be called in ahead of time and collected in the parking lot. Meet the Crocworld residents From the introductory welcome by African Fish Eagle, Isis; through to Henry, the oldest Nile crocodile in captivity (celebrating his 121st year in 2021!) there are a host of interesting characters to keep the family entertained at Crocworld Conservation Centre. When it comes to feathered friends, the new Raptor Wing – an extension of the existing aviary - is a must-visit, home to a variety of predatory birds such as Booted Eagles, Eurasian Eagle Owls, Harris Hawk and Jackal Buzzard. Visitors will also enjoy meeting the latest additions, two baby storks born at Crocworld. And, with its lush indigenous coastal forest, Crocworld is home to more than 200 local bird species who fly freely around the centre. The little ones will have a wonderful time at the animal farm which houses a range of furry farmyard critters, including bunnies, goats, guinea pigs, pigs and tortoises. And for those who prefer something a bit more on the dangerous side, there are a variety of crocodilians as well as snake species which can be viewed in a close up (but safe!) enclosure. With the winter season in full swing, visitors to Crocworld Conservation Centre can also take a stroll along the recently revamped Whale Watching Walkway where they stand a good chance of viewing the migrating whales, or catching sight of the ever-playful dolphins. For those wanting a bit of retail therapy, the Crocworld Conservation Centre’s Curio Shop also has some great new stock available including bespoke clocks, branded hats and beanies, magnets, stationery and mugs – among others. Quality-made items that are great as mementos, gifts or just something to brighten up the day! All Covid-19 protocols are in place at Crocworld and visitors are urged to wear masks, sanitise and follow family group social distancing regulations. In line with regulations, the centre and café are open from 9am to 4.30pm. To find out more about the new happenings at Crocworld Conservation Centre, visit www.crocworld.co.za or ‘Crocworld Conservation Centre’ on Facebook. Alternatively, contact Crocworld Conservation Centre on 039 976 1103. To find out more about Fish Eagle Café or make a take away order, call 083 658 7073 or email mvanzyl@cbl.co.za . Issued on behalf of: James Wittstock Acting Centre Manager: Crocworld Conservation Centre Disseminated by: Olivia Jones Communications For more information please contact: Olivia Jones Communications Cell: 083 653 1720 Email: media@oliviajones.co.za Received and published on The Weekend Magazine for more details email info@theweekend.co.za

In many cases the covid pandemic has left our beloved tourism sector in pieces, gasping for air, pulling at any lifeline and offering ridiculously low fares on accommodation just so as to stay alive, YES it is happening and its not just in your social thread but happening to all of us! What can we do? Well it is simple, help out if you can, take a short trip now more than ever to all those stunning destinations that were simply way out of your budget. I personally feel bad because it is almost as if i am reaping where others have lost. But NO it just is a win win from my pocket to your bank account and i want to see your business open for another 15 years! Lodges, B&B's, Backpackers and more are all in need of our every rand! If you see your local lodge offering a discount on lunch then go out and have a meal, they're even willing to do the dishes. Here is a guy who has been following what has been happening to our sector from over the seas, the tile ... THE PANDEMIC HAS UNDONE SOUTH AFRICA’S NATIONAL PARKS Without tourism, the funding that sustains some of the world’s most treasured wildlife has atrophied. By Adam Welz read the full article HERE It is so vitally important that the world sees how we needed their international patronage and now need their support in the form of donations until travel is back to normal and covid has withered into an abyss. World Class Governance, Compliance and Management of Donor Funding - SANPARKS (South African National Parks) While SANParks is regarded as a blue chip organisation in the environmental and tourist space, nevertheless, sustainability remains a challenge for many organisations, including SANParks, in the non-profit and parastatal space. CSI budgets are driven by profitability, which is declining in the face of the global economic down turn. SANParks engages on a number of projects which interested donors can support. These vary from Anti-poaching, Socio Economic Development, Responsible Tourism Development Projects, and Science & Research Development. Read more about donating to Sanparks HERE Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Community Conservation Relief Fund Supporting the livelihoods of our wildlife communities impacted by the COVID-19 lockdown A campaign by African Conservation Trust “Nature conservationists must take into account the needs of the people around the reserve.” Nelson Mandela Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife is responsible for 70 protected areas, mostly in deep rural areas of KwaZulu-Natal. The COVID-19 lockdown has severely impacted nature based tourism; especially the livelihoods of the local communities that depend on it. To complement government’s relief grants and food hamper programmes, and to support our communities during this time, we ask that you contribute to our Community Conservation Relief Fund. So that when you return you find that not just our animals are thriving – but our people too. Donate Now #InThisTogether Article by Tyrone Spinner We need you to help us write great articles and get seen by millions of our South African's ! Join our #Weekendcommunity today and become an affiliate. Share your stories, talk about insightful topics and drive awareness! email us on info@theweekend.co.za Thank's for reading 😀