Events Calendar

JUNE 2013

5 - 9 June – Pondo Pedal, Umngazi River Bungalows & Spa, Port St-Johns

The race caters for a variety of intermediate and advanced biking appetites, from nature lovers, to adventure seekers and racing snakes. The route takes cyclists along a diverse route that includes district roads, swamp trails and cattle paths, where teams are often cheered on by the local Umngazi community. 

www.pondopedal.com

Click here for more info.

MAY 2013

27 May – Talk on Living Green Roofs in South Africa, Durban

Clive Greenstone talks about some of his rooftop garden/green roof projects and some of the challenges surrounding local green roof installations, from types of green roofs, to plants and materials. Proceeds to the Botanical Education Trust and the Durban Botanical Gardens Trust.

031-2015111

botsoc-kzn@mweb.co.za

www.botanicalsociety.org.za

25 May – Amarider Ultra-Marathon, Swartland

This is an absolute must-do for endurance mountain bikers – a 160km ultra-marathon with Malmesbury as its start and finish. There is a shorter option of 80km that starts at the halfway mark.

021-8844752

www.amarider.co.za 

10 - 12 May – Greenpop's Family Reforest Fest

Specially timed for Mother’s day, it will have fun music on the Saturday evening that will end at 10:30pm (for an early night under the stars) and varied fun/ educational activities for kids, teens and adults, including a special Mother’s day activity tree planting on the Sunday morning. This festival will focus on family activities and includes:

·      Interactive musical sessions and instrument making

·      Arts and crafts

·      Hoola hooping

·      Slack-lining

·      Forest walks

·      Yoga and tree meditation and more…

Band line up includes:

TouchWood – a gypsy afro-folk band

Croc e Moses – slam poet and musician

DJ Bob’s your Uncle – Jungle-book mash-ups and fun beats

And other exciting guests!

Contact Lauren O'Donnell on 083 412 8006 or lauren@greenpop.org

Click here for more info.

DECEMBER 2012

15 - 17 December – Cape Bonsai Kai Show

At the Sanlam Hall in Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden, numerous Bonsai exhibits will include many indigenous examples. There will also be demonstrations on Bonsai design and care, and everything for Bonsai aficionados, on sale. Enjoy Japanese drumming on Sunday.

083-2305348 or 021-7978972

www.capebonsaikai.co.za

15 December – Fynbos & Food Fair, Cape Point

This annual fair at the Good Hope Gardens Nursery offers fynbos walks, fynbos products, food stalls, a succulent footpath, discounted fynbos and indigenous Christmas trees. For the kids there is a jumping castle, face painting, pony rides and 'organic' playground.

From 10:00 - 16:00

021- 7809299 or fynbosplants@xsinet.co.za

08 December – Slanghoek Summer Splash, Rawsonville

What better place to celebrate summer and the festive season than Slanghoek Valley. Take your own picnic to Slanghoek Mountain Resort or enjoy wine tasting and delicious food from their deli. For the kids there will be putt-putt, horse riding, a jungle gym and jumping castle.

023-3443138 or info@slanghoekresort.co.za

www.slanghoekvalley.co.za

02 & 12 December – Hike to Lion's Head Watchmans & Granite Skull

Sacred Site Gatherings & Day Tours

Take a Hike with the Sacred Site Foundation of Southern Africa! We are going half way up Lion's Head on Sunday 2nd December from 10h30am to 3pm, bring a picnic & join us with a small youth group we are treating with an outing. Dean Liprini, the author of "Pathways of the Sun - unveiling the mysteries of Table Mountain & beyond will be leading the hike & will be talking & answering questions, it is fun & informal.

For more info, click here

Time: 10:30

Place: Lion's Head - Signal Hill Rd, Table Mountain NP, Cape Town

079-4048762 or dean@sunpath.co.za

SEPTEMBER 2012

30 September – Sonderend Birding

Join us at Wheatlands, home to Cecil and Mieke, on the beautiful Heuningkloof Estate 8 km outside Greyton. 

A light mid-morning refreshment will be provided. Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, binoculars and bird book.

Meet at the Greyton Library parking area at 9:00 am.

Ria Wills 028-2549110 or ria@tcslearning.com

29 September – Step into Springtime at Good Hope Gardens Nursery

This beautiful and tranquil indigenous plant nursery in Scarborough, near Cape Point, invites you to share the experience of their Spring Celebration.

A festive day's outing for the whole family! Not only is the drive
one of the most beautiful in the country – once you are there, you can plan
your discounted indigenous garden, explore the magical fynbos walks or simply relax with lunch under a shady tree while your children enjoy the playground.

There will be an array of fun for the whole family – Discounts on all plants – Fynbos walks to explore – Succulent footpath – Fairy gardens – Dream Sanctuary Coffee Shop – Home bakes and refreshments – Kids fun, gifts and playground –Expert gardening advice.

From 10am- 4pm

Roushanna Gray
Good Hope Gardens Nursery
Phone 072-2344804 / 021-7809299
www.capepoint.com
http://www.goodhopenursery.wordpress.com

AUGUST 2012

26 August – Sonderend Birding at Vermont Salt Pan

Join us for a morning of birding at the Vermont Salt Pan, followed by lunch at The Milkwood Restaurant in Onrus. Bring binoculars, a bird book and morning coffee. 

Ria Wills 028-2549110, ria@tcslearning.com

23 - 29 August – Clanwilliam Wild Flower Show

Celebrate the onset of spring and draw inspiration from the kaleidoscope of colours on offer at the ever popular Clanwilliam Wild Flower Show. The widest variety of plants and flowers in the country will be on display in the exceptional ambience of the Flower Church. This is a highlight on the calendar and an event not to be missed.

Clanwilliam Tourism Office

027-4822024

cederberg@lando.co.za

10 August – Kids of Nature Radio interview with Bassie of Bush Talk, Cape Town

'Let's talk about sharks...' 

09 - 12 August – Stretton's Mapungubwe Birding Weekend 

Calling all twitchers to enjoy an exciting birding weekend in the company of Limpopo province ornithologist Joe Grosel. Honorary rangers will be your friendly hosts, catering for your every need and providing sumptuous bush cuisine. Activities for the weekend will include informative talks and bird and game spotting drives. Booking is essential.

Charles Hardy 083-4571721

charlois@mweb.co.za

10 - 12 August – The Ross Taylor Benefit Surf Contest

Surf’s up, and for a good cause too! Held in honour of Ross Taylor, who succumbed to cancer at 29, The Ross Taylor Benefit Surf Contest at Buffalo Bay is now in its fourth year. The event raised R70 000 and attracted 215 contestants in 2011, making this the largest entered surf contest in South Africa. There’s lots of fun for families and spectators too, including a fun run/walk and sandcastle building.
www.hospiceknysna.org.za
083-4124598
rosstaylorsurf@gmail.com

09 August – Nine-to-Five Mountain Bike Team Relay

If you’ve never attended the Nine-to-Five Mountain Bike Team Relay event that takes place on Delvera Farm, then perhaps it’s time you and your family made your way to this beautiful winelands venue for a fun day out.

www.dirtopia.co.za, theteam@dirtopia.co.za

021-8844752

JULY 2012

July - August – The Greatest Shoal on Earth

The Sardine Run is far more than millions of fish swimming their way up the KZN coast. Sharks, dolphins, whales and seabirds all follow the procession, while we humans can also get involved. One can dive with sharks and sardines at Aliwal Shoal or Protea Banks, or take a marine charter out of Port Edward, Ramsgate or Shelly Beach. Another special way to appreciate this incredible spectacle is a flip in an aircraft (also see page 28).

South Coast Tourism
039-6827944

23 July – Wolseley MTB Challenge

A beautiful section of the 2011 Cape Epic route between Worcester and Ceres is the venue for a tough but pretty mountainbike race. The main races are 64km and 44km in length, while a 17km social ride is also offered, as well as 5km for the wee ‘uns. If you take on the longer routes, be prepared for sore legs but real satisfaction.

082-7807516, 084-2545205
ndicey@lando.co.za
grobbelaar100@telkomsa.net
www.pedalpower.org.za

12 - 22 July – Friends of Nylsvley Birding Weekend

A visit to this birding mecca should be on every serious birder’s bucket list, for the wetland is home to a huge diversity of species. Thisparticular weekend includes educational birding talks as well as guided walks giving you the best chance of identifying that elusive mega-tick.

012-6672183
friendsnylsvley@mweb.co.za 

2 - 3 July – Delheim’s Wild Fungi Forage

The first thing about picking mushrooms is knowing which will taste like heaven and which will send you there. This is why Delheim begins it’s day of picking mushrooms with a short course in mushroom identification, before the guests scatter through the forests in search of Boletus edulis, Pine Rings and other delicacies. When the picking is done, the foragers will head to the Garden Restaurant to indulge in dishes that showcase the flavours for which wild mushrooms are famed.

021-8884607
www.delheim.com

25 June - 13 July – Winter Wonders Art Workshops @ Kirstenbosch Gardens

Wondering what to do with the kids for the June/July school holidays?
Join us for a holiday programme that explores nature in a fun and unforgettable way through fabric painting, mobile and jewellery making, keeping a nature diary,
scraper boards and so much more ......
We will be 'getting back to the gardens', firstly inspired by a nature amble amongst Kirstenbosch Garden's flora and fauna leading to an exciting art adventure.

Weekdays (except Wednesdays)
From 9am - 12 noon

Nicolette (grades 1- 6) 083-4712828/ molonix@gmail.com
Inge (grades 7 – 12) 072-5975375/ iicjsemple@mweb.co.za

Entry into the garden is free for participants

JUNE 2012 

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23 June – Central Berg Polar Bear Swim Challenge

Winter – the perfect time for a little dip in amountain lake. Or so argue a few loons up in the Berg. If you’re a brave soul prepared to do something out for the ordinary, and support the local SPCA at the same time, head on up to Dragon Peaks in your speedo. It’s not a race, and you may even win a lucky ‘dip’ prize.

Ann 082-8280401

anngray@telkomsa.net

28 June - 1 July – Mtunzini Birding Weekend

Mangrove Kingfisher, Southern Bronze-naped Pigeon, Green Twinspot, African Finfoot, Palmnut Vulture. If these names get you a little excited, don’t miss this exclusive weekend. Limited to just 24 birders, who are split up into even smaller groups and accompanied by guides, the event includes visits to Umlalazi Nature Reserve, oNgoye Forest, Dlinza Forest and Boardwalk and other birding areas around Mtunzini.

Daff Untiedt

time4fun@telkomsa.net

035-3401600, 081-2703064

1 - 3 June – Royal Drakensberg MTB Challenge

How often does one get to cycle through a national heritage site, with spectacular scenery all around you. The main 45km race passes waterfalls, gorges and the spectacular amphitheatre, while there are also shorter races as well as trail runs during the weekend.

www.roag.co.za

MAY 2012

26 May – Oorlogskloof Mountain Run, Nieuwoudtville

Head into the wilds for this remote mountain trail run which promises to be one of those experiences one never forgets. The less foolhardy can opt for a gentler 18km version, while the 42km slog is for teams or pairs only, thanks to the remoteness of the terrain in the Oorlogskloof Nature Reserve.

021-7890188

info@quantumadventures.co.za

www.quantumadventures.co.za

26 May – RE:CM 100 Miler, Malmesbury

One hundred miles on a mountain bike is not to be scoffed at, and the RE:CM 100 Miler is said to be one of the toughest endurance rides in the country. A shorter option is the 80km race, which starts at the half-way mark of the main race and is still a mountain to climb. Funds from the event are used to create more trails on our continent.

021-8844752

www.amarider.co.za

20 May – Mid-Illovo MTB Challenge & Trail Run

Run or ride the green hills of KwaZulu-Natal in this extremely popular family event. Mountain bike races of 40km and 18km, a kids ride of 10km and trail runs of 8km or 14km fill the day and offer something for just about every athlete. The route traverses two game lodges, so keep an eye out for wildlife.

086-1007624

info@roag.co.za

www.roag.co.za

13 May – Hill’s/SPCA Township Dog Show, Lidgetton

This, the biggest township dog show in the country, proves that the love of a good hound transcends all manner of social barriers. Unlike regular dog shows, breed standards and perfect conformation will not be the order of the day. Instead judges will be looking for healthy, well-cared for pets that have avisibly strong bond with their owner. The overall Best Dog on Show will win acosy kennel, and Hill’s pet food will be awarded to winners in all classes. Every entrant will receive Hill’s pet food, a dog bowl, a warm winter blanket and more.

033-3305299, 082-3782300

somerzet@iafrica.com

www.umngenispca.org.za

www.dirtopia.co.za

5 - 6 May – Riebeek Valley Olive Festival

Make your way to the picturesque Swartland towns of Riebeek Kasteel and Riebeek West for their annual olive jamboree and watch these quaint little towns come alive as they showcase the best they have to offer in food, wine and olives. Visitors to the Olive Emporium can stock up on a wide selection of olives, delicious olive oils, preserves, tapenades, as well a vast selection of olive-based beauty products.

www.webtickets.co.za

APRIL 2012

28 - 29 – Cradle of Humankind Sheepdog Trials

Get out in support of the hard-working hounds of the country, doing what they're bred to do, and having the time of their lives. Be prepared to be amazed at the focus and precision of the dogs, the love and the dedication of their handlers, and the incredible job the pair does in the field. And, perhaps spare a thought for the sheep who spend their day being tossed about.

Carol 072-2881558, Elsie 082-4419646

trollip@iburst.co.za

www.sasda.za.net

27 - 29 – Pietermaritzburg Sustainable Living and Indigenous Plant Fair

Broaden your mind and your knowledge by learning about indigenous plants and sustainable living. This is also an opportunity to shop for a wide selection of fruit trees and vegetables, and stock up on inspiration for your homestead garden. Experts on green fields will also give talks, and delicious eco-friendly food will be on sale.

Karen 033-3431739, Andrew 083-2930249

27 - 28 – Graskop Blue Swallow Festival

The blue swallow is one of South Africa's most vulnerable birds and it depends on pristine grasslands for its survival, like those in the Graskop area. To do your bit for the preservation of these grasslands and birds, pop along to this open-air market, complete with fine food, arts and crafts, an art exhibition, nature talks, a potjiekos competition and a fun run.

Esme 083-5851635, Merle 082-4652827

blueswallowfestival@gmail.com

14 – Stellenbosch Rare Plant Fair

Rustenburg Wines plays host to this annual fair where collectors, purveyors, and admirers of rare plants gather to ogle, share, and chat. 27 specialist, amateur, and professional growers will be selling their plants directly to the keen gardening public, and side stalls will be selling other items of interest to gardeners.

078–0212101

www.rareplantfair.co.za

Greenpop's Family Reforest Fest

Pondo Pedal June 2012