At Retire Successfully, we believe that achieving a sense of balance is fundamental to a successful retirement. Life encompasses many different facets, and when one is neglected, it can impact the others.
One of these is Give Back.
For Chartered clients Angie and Allan Chandler, this is exactly what their retirement has become.
Now living in Hillcrest, Allan and Angie are both retired after long and dedicated careers. Angie worked in midwifery for over 35 years, largely at Parklands Hospital in Overport, Durban, while Allan spent his career in education, most recently as headmaster of Thomas More College in Kloof.
Their introduction to the Robinhood Foundation came through Angie’s walking group, where a fellow member mentioned that volunteers were needed. They joined after Angie retired, having both expressed a desire to continue giving of their time.
Their volunteer work has become an important part of their lives. As they shared:
“Our volunteer work brings a new meaning to our lives. In a world of confusion in many ways, we are able, in part, to promote goodness, equity, compassion, kindness, care, and most importantly, humanity. Bringing joy and sustenance to so many makes us feel better about the world around us, and ourselves.”
Their involvement with the Foundation includes a range of activities. Each week, they assist with “storage” in Pinetown, where large volumes of donated goods are sorted, classified and packed. Every fortnight, more than 1,000 sandwiches are prepared and distributed to schools in need.
They are also involved in packing and distributing Gogo Bags, which include food, clothing and school uniforms for grandmothers raising orphaned children. Volunteers regularly visit old age homes in both urban and rural areas, and at year end, the Foundation hosts “Bless a Granny and Grandpa” Christmas parties at around 20 homes, with gifts, music and dancing.
Other initiatives include assisting with the building of crèches and upgrading schools. Two to three times a year, Mahala markets are held in outlying areas, where elderly attendees are invited to select clothing, linen and shoes, and are provided with food.
The Foundation also hosts fun days at schools such as Fulton School for the Deaf and Ethembeni School for the physically disabled. Angie is involved in the “Love the Babies” initiative, preparing hampers for new mothers in state hospitals, and visits Philakade Care Home for the profoundly physically disabled on a weekly basis with other volunteers, to do simple craft and pampering sessions.
Across the Foundation, volunteers also teach maths to young children and support animal care and anti-cruelty initiatives. Genuine requests for assistance are rarely refused.
Through their involvement, Allan and Angie have seen the wide reach of the Foundation’s work across different communities.
Their advice to others is simple. For those wanting to volunteer, consider reaching out to organisations in your area. There are many who would welcome your help. In KwaZulu-Natal, you can contact the Robinhood Foundation.
“My wife says I should have my ears tested as I battle to hear her when she speaks. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with my hearing; it’s my wife who mumbles.”
The audiologist looked at me and raised her eyebrows.
“And I bet,” I continued, “that every married man of my age says exactly the same to you.”
“That he does,” she replied with a smile.
My ears were tested, my gosh, that was almost ten years ago, and, as usual in a case like this, my wife, Louis, was right.
I decided on the latest type of hearing aid, difficult to notice (obviously some sort of vanity was involved) and started wearing them, but not all the time. I didn’t think there was much difference (Louis did), but when I didn’t have them in during meetings, I had to ask the chair to repeat privately what had been discussed. I also noticed, when I was wearing them, that for the first time in years I could take part in a discussion around the table, especially in a restaurant with all its background noise.
I’d recently entered for an advanced music exam (I’m a wonderfully mediocre pianist) and hadn’t done quite as well as I’d hoped (I passed, though), one reason being that I had to keep on asking the examiner to repeat her instructions or even to replay certain notes so that I could determine what they were. With my new hearing aids, I could hear more acutely (and my performance also improved; well, I thought so even though I still haven’t been asked to perform at Carnegie Hall).
Oh yes, there was also a noticeable cognitive improvement.
Looking at this from the other side, I’ve observed that some men or should I say many men (they seem to be more vain than the women here – that might be for another article) refuse to admit that they’re, in the words of my grandmother, “hard of hearing” (it seems that the word “deaf” is unacceptable). I’ve spoken to quite a number of them, be they friends (or former friends), acquaintances and running mates when I’ve seen them straining to hear, sitting at a table with a fixed Mona Lisa smile and obviously not taking everything in (just as I had done), and even, when I was giving a talk at, for instance, the University of the Third Age, sitting in the front and staring at me (obviously attempting to lip-read); also if anyone dozed off, it would always be those who had difficulty hearing me spout forth wisdom or being gratuitously facile.
So, why have I decided to write this now? Well, it’s all part of outreach or community service. You see (if I recorded this, I’d say, “You hear …” or “don’t hear” as the case might be), at a recent Chartered function, I heard some of my contemporaries talking very loudly at different tables (not always to press a point but because it was a sign of their “hard-of-hearingness” that they weren’t aware of) and others sitting quietly and obviously not following what those around them were saying. When I breezed past them a few times (being sociable and, as is Louis and my wont, chatting to all and, especially, sundry), I looked at those I’d worked out had hearing problems. Yes, dear reader (as Jane Austen said), not one of them was wearing a hearing aid.
No doubt, it’s not only men who have this problem, but from what I’ve seen, they’re more susceptible to vanity here than the women, possibly because the latter can hide their hearing aids under lustrous locks.
So, men, go and get your ears tested, especially when others notice that you’re battling to hear at times. And if you’re too vain to admit your hearing loss (and I bet you’re reading this with your glasses on, so what’s the difference?), just grow your hair or wear a wig. And you’ll find that, if you’re married, your wife has stopped mumbling.
For many people, the decision to move is not about property, but about timing and choice. A retirement lifestyle estate in Hillcrest offers the opportunity to plan that transition proactively. It allows you to move while you still have the freedom and independence to shape your next chapter. At Le Domaine in Hillcrest, KwaZulu-Natal, residents enjoy secure living, strong community connection and seamless continuity of care within one established estate.
About Le Domaine
Le Domaine is a highly sought-after lifestyle estate in Hillcrest, KwaZulu-Natal, offering approximately 700 residential units, along with an additional 64 en-suite rooms within its assisted living and frail care centre.
The estate is primarily aimed at the 50-plus age group, but is one of the few lifestyle estates that allows people of any age to purchase property, with family life actively encouraged. Homes range from bachelor apartments to spacious three-bedroom units, and demand remains high, with properties often selling within days of being listed.
Why Choose a Retirement Lifestyle Estate in Hillcrest?
Residents benefit from access-controlled security, extensive lifestyle facilities, on-site healthcare services, and prioritised emergency medical response.
Homes range from bachelor apartments to spacious three-bedroom units. This flexibility allows buyers to choose a space that suits their current needs while planning for the future.
Situated in the heart of Hillcrest, KwaZulu-Natal, the estate offers both tranquillity and convenience, with easy access to local shops, medical facilities and community services.
Independent Living with Continuity of Care at Le Domaine
Meet Le Domaine resident Wendy Bezuidenhout
Wendy Bezuidenhout has lived at Le Domaine since 2007 and offers a deeply personal perspective on life within the estate. Her late husband, John, was the developer behind Le Domaine, and Wendy supported him in the vision that shaped it from the beginning. Today, she also works as the administrator of the estate’s care centre. As a result, she has a unique understanding of how residents’ needs evolve over time.
For Wendy, Le Domaine was never just about property or facilities. It was about creating an environment where people could transition through life’s later chapters with dignity, continuity, and choice. Living on the estate while it was being developed gave her first-hand insight into how important it is for residents to feel both secure and connected, without losing their sense of independence.
The Emotional Side of Moving Later in Life
One of the themes Wendy returns to often is identity. She has seen many residents struggle with the emotional shift that comes when careers end, children leave home, and long-held roles begin to change. Moving into a lifestyle estate can feel daunting, not because of the move itself, but because of what it represents. Importantly, it is not because of the move itself, but because of what it represents.
“Nobody likes change, and our homes are deeply tied to who we think we are. But my advice is always to make the decision for yourself, while you still have the freedom and health to enjoy this next chapter, rather than waiting for someone else to make it for you.”
Wendy believes timing is everything. Making the move earlier allows residents to really enjoy the lifestyle on offer, the social interaction, the activities, and the sense of belonging, rather than arriving only when care becomes essential.
Assisted Living and Frail Care in a Familiar Environment
A key reason Wendy chose to remain at Le Domaine after her husband passed away in 2020 was the continuity the estate provides. As residents’ needs change, they do not have to leave their familiar environment. Instead, they can transition from independent living to assisted living, frail care, or palliative care within the same community. They remain surrounded by friends, routines and familiar spaces.
This continuity is particularly important for residents whose families live elsewhere, often overseas. In addition, remaining in a known environment, with trusted support close at hand, brings reassurance not only to residents but to their families as well.
Community, Security and Lifestyle Facilities in Hillcrest
Wendy also values the balance Le Domaine strikes between privacy and community. Residents are free to live quietly and independently, or to participate in a wide range of social, educational, and wellness activities. From walking trails and fitness facilities to talks, music evenings, and group outings, the estate offers opportunities for connection without pressure.
Planning Your Next Chapter with Choice and Confidence
Reflecting on her years at Le Domaine, Wendy’s advice is clear and grounded in experience: plan proactively, make decisions while you still have choice, and prioritise quality of life. Ultimately, a lifestyle estate, she believes, should not feel like an ending, but rather a supportive foundation for the next chapter.
Can birding really be done from a luxury train? In our case, the answer turned out to be yes – and no.
In 2024, BirdLife SA launched the inaugural Rovos Rail Birding Safari – a world-class five-night bespoke journey through South Africa’s epicentre of avian diversity. Departing from Pretoria, the train overnighted at Dullstroom, Mbombela, Hoedspruit, Tzaneen and Polokwane, all chosen for their varied birding habitats and dramatic changes in altitude.
But how does one go birding on a train?
This was made possible by eight highly skilled bird guides who followed the train in minibuses, taking participants to prime birding hotspots early each morning.
The World of Rovos Rail
Rovos Rail, known as “The Most Luxurious Train in the World”, was founded by Rohan Vos in the mid-1980s. What began as a personal dream of refurbishing old railway carriages has grown into an internationally renowned business, complete with its own station and railyard in Pretoria, six trainsets, and routes stretching from Cape Town to Dar-es-Salaam.
To describe Rohan as “a boy with his toys” would be a serious understatement. Gleaming locomotives pull beautifully restored dining, sleeper, lounge and observation cars. He trained his workforce of 430 craftsmen and craftswomen himself, and the Capital Park workshops feel like stepping back into the golden age of rail travel.
At the start of the journey, passengers are guided to their named suites, each carriage attended by a dedicated hostess. Our Deluxe Suite, with its charming original SAR&H basin, shower, bar fridge, easy chairs and generous double bed, made for a very comfortable home on rails.
The Railway Reality
Once the train left Capital Park, however, it was in Transnet’s hands. Their locomotives and drivers pulled the Rovos carriages along an inconsistently maintained network, with little concern for passenger comfort. Jerking and banging could be severe, and Rovos adjusted its planning so that the train remained stationary overnight to ensure restful sleep.
Our journey offered insight into the current state of South Africa’s rail system. Long freight trains still operate, but derelict stations, vandalised infrastructure, abandoned rolling stock, and rusting tracks painted a sobering picture. Overgrown vegetation made leaning out of windows hazardous, and the carriages returned to Pretoria much the worse for wear.
Life Onboard
Despite this, the onboard experience was exceptional.
Great emphasis was placed on fine dining. Lunch and dinner consisted of four courses with wine or liqueur pairings, featuring fresh, local ingredients and traditional dishes. A gong announced each sitting, and linen, silverware and crystal glasses were impeccable.
Evening meals required formal attire, though jackets were mercifully optional. The final dinner was safari-themed, complete with décor and costumes. One could easily imagine Karen Blixen of Out of Africa feeling at home among the leopard prints.
Early Mornings and Rare Sightings
Each morning began at 5 am with coffee and rusks, followed by breakfast packs and minibus departures on one of three birding routes.
Our personal approach is to accept only self-taken photographs as positive records, while most guides rely on bird calls. This occasionally led to frustration, as birds are rarely camera-compliant.
A daily sightings list was published. Nearly 300 species were recorded over five days, including four lifers (first-time sighting) – Magpie Mannikin, Short-clawed Lark, African Quailfinch and a Cuckoo Finch pair – bringing our Southern African list to 637.
A disappointment was missing the African Finfoot, although it was seen on other routes. Such is the nature of birding.
Our most special sighting was the Short-clawed Lark, endemic to the grassland north of Polokwane. Sadly, habitat degradation has placed this near-threatened species at risk.
Learning, Friendship and Fulfilment
Birding was complemented by engaging lectures from Professor Peter Ryan on a range of ornithological topics.
Travelling with Rovos Rail and BirdLife SA proved to be a memorable experience of luxury and excellence. New friendships were formed over shared meals, minibus journeys and time spent in the observation lounge.
For the 72 participants, birding from a train on this inaugural safari was a rare privilege. Having the means to play and learn with purpose in this way enriches one’s sense of fulfilment in retirement. This journey did exactly that.
Lindsay on the platform at Capital Park station prior to departure
From the moment Pam and Errol glimpsed Rome’s ancient skyline, their Italian journey unfolded with unforgettable moments, laughter, and discovery. Travelling with a close-knit group of American friends, they blended guided tours with spontaneous exploration, savouring history, cuisine, and the simple joy of the journey itself.
A Journey Through Italy
Their group’s journey began in Rome, where they spent two and a half days exploring iconic landmarks, including the Vatican and the Colosseum. They highly recommend pre-booking “Skip-the-Line” tickets, which allowed them to skip the long queues and make the most of their time. A private guide enriched their experience, sharing stories and historical details that brought the ancient sites to life.
From Rome, they took the train to Sorrento for five days of coastal beauty and relaxed sightseeing. One highlight was a private boat trip to Capri, complete with a swim in the Mediterranean. Although the famous Blue Grotto was closed due to the tide, the dramatic cliffs and sparkling coastline more than made up for it.
Tuscany was their next stop—a villa nestled on the outskirts of the medieval walled town of San Gimignano, surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. With a rental car, the group explored Florence and Bologna by day, and in the evenings, they gathered in the villa’s kitchen to cook simple meals from fresh local produce. These shared dinners became some of the trip’s most cherished moments.
The grand finale was Venice. Arriving by train and gliding through the canals by water taxi, Pam and Errol checked into a 500-year-old hotel near St. Mark’s Square—modernised inside, yet brimming with character. On departure, they discovered the ultimate travel hack: a water taxi straight to the airport, ending their adventure in comfort and style.
Pam and Errol’s Top Travel Tips for Italy:
Download Citymapper: This free app is a lifesaver for navigating Italy’s cities. It shows you whether to walk, take the metro, or hop on a bus—no guesswork required.
Book ahead: “Skip-the-Line” tickets for major attractions like the Vatican and Colosseum are worth every cent. Skip the queues and spend more time exploring.
Be firm with taxis: Italian taxis are legally required to accept credit cards. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
Know your gondola rates: The official price is €90 before 6 p.m. and €110 after. If you’re quoted more, walk away.
Avoid driving in city centres: Many Italian cities have restricted traffic zones for authorised vehicles only. Entering by mistake can mean a fine of over €150.
Self-cater in Tuscany: Shopping for local ingredients and cooking together was one of the group’s highlights.
Make the most of Italy’s trains: Italy’s train system is fast and reliable and connects most major cities and scenic regions. Booking tickets in advance can save money, and travelling by train is often more relaxing than driving or flying between destinations.
Use an eSIM for easy connectivity: Consider purchasing an eSIM before your trip or upon arrival in Italy. It’s a convenient way to stay connected without swapping physical SIM cards, and you can activate data plans instantly on your phone. Be sure to verify that your phone is compatible with eSIMs before purchasing.
We’d love to hear your story! If you’ve been on a memorable trip and would like to share your adventure, please email Lyndsay@charteredwealth.co.za.
Researching what was for the two of us a brand-new holiday option was an eye- opener. We began by interrogating a wide range of trusty travellers on sea cruises options.
Most common and vehemently shared views were: Are you mad? (I am told it’s a slow process, was the response), I wouldn’t be seen dead on a ship (careful now), it’s FAR too expensive (Hmm), we can’t stand crowds/queues (been to Plett lately?) and it’s for old people (huh?), said with such passion and conviction that I failed to ask if they had experienced these feelings first-hand. Apparently, many had, but in a different era.
The Brandy and Coke Days
Those of a certain age will recall the MSC cruises that left from the KZN harbour headed for Mauritius, filled with over-excited sales ‘Achievement of the Year’ award winners. The corporate hosts provided French champagne, brandy and Coke, and a range of SA’s amazing ales. Those were the days. And the tradition continues – recently over 450 sales achievers of the year enjoyed an all-paid cruise in glorious sunshine, leaving onboard staff with stories to tell – including typical Saffer shenanigans.
Tackling the FAQs
Here’s the thing – the current crop of upmarket cruise liners gracefully ride the waves, offering a variety of destinations and packages. It’s certainly worth a try as you will read below.
FAQ1
Are we mad? The short answer is “no”. Until you experience the sheer comfort, safety and variety offered (including Alaska, South and North America, Europe and the Middle and Far East), it’s impossible to criticise. Unless you suffer from acute sea sickness, in which case there are nifty patches to wear behind your ear lobes; rather remarkably, they work like a charm.
FAQ2
The cost and what we got? We chose a smaller ship with a maximum of 500 guests and 200 staff. The ship can moor at many of the harbours we sailed into, making disembarkation swift and safe. Our two-week rate for two people was $17.000 (less expensive than a daily rate at a 5-star bush lodge in South Africa). It included pretty much everything. Excluded were laundry, land excursions and spa treatments. Land tour prices ranged from zero to $300 per person in a private luxury car or 4-wheel drive. There is a vast list of tours to choose from.
Or you can sunbathe on the ship, attend a talk on health/wellness or fascinating presentations by an eminent historian – favourite examples were Churchill, Lord Byron and the impact on the global order by Spanish and Portuguese explorers. Relaxing is popular and you can choose from a host of lounges/decks/coffee and ice cream bars, chill in your cabin with a view to marvel at, play table tennis, bridge and Mahjong, win a prize in the competitive putting competition or meet and talk to guests from across the globe.
Oodles of entertainment to choose from: live shows including opera, smooth jazz and late-night quartets followed by the resident DJ, background piano melodies and singers at the restaurant bar – and the cruise favourite, an ABBA show (close your eyes and you are transported to the ABBA Voyage in London).
The cabin was roomy, with service 24 hours a day at the ring of a bell. Filtered water and ice awaited us on arrival and were refreshed twice a day. A massive range of alcohol served by baristas at four bar areas included a different cocktail every evening. There were seven restaurants to choose from, with menus that included fresh food bought daily from the harbour towns we arrived at. We often disembarked and wandered around the harbour and town or city we docked at, and a brief history of the area was provided the day before in person, on our app and TV in the room.
FAQ3
But aren’t there long queues and crowds on board? We did not experience queues on board, even at the busiest bars and restaurants. Seldom were more than four guests sharing the elevator with us. The service was exemplary. Once, during a spate of strong winds, we were held back from disembarking for an hour, which we spent at The Observation tea and coffee bar.
Alert – the size of the boat really matters. In Thailand, we witnessed monster-sized ships carrying over 3000 people standing for hours waiting to go to and from the harbour.
FAQ4
Aren’t cruises just for older people? Age doesn’t matter. The first week on board, we estimated the average age at 55/60. The second week, a batch of tour groups from America, Australia and New Zealand embarked, dropping the age level significantly.
The land tours are divided from easy to challenging. Easy strolls around towns and villages along cobbled streets or challenging, including mountain climbing and sea boarding. You get to choose.
We attended wine farm and art gallery tours with 30-year-olds and tuk-tuk trips up the mountains in Montenegro with 65-year-olds. The entertainment schedule followed suit. We felt right at home wherever we were and whomever we spoke to.
The Sea, Sky and Scrumptious Food
After 3 fascinating days touring the old city and mountains, we embarked at Dubrovnik in Croatia on our way to Montenegro. Here are some highlights:
At 5 am, while enjoying tea and sandwiches on an open deck, we watched a glorious sunrise above the encircling mountain range and into an azure sky as we slowly entered the harbour.
Next stop, the boot of Italy. We strolled through the town of Gallipoli with its chic and colourful restaurants and marvelled at local fashion designs, arts and crafts.
We stopped at several ports along mainland Greece, all charming, historically interesting and full of life. Strolling along palm-lined promenades, shopping for arts and crafts in bustling bazaars or unwinding with fresh seafood and ice-cold local beers by the marinas – what’s not to love?
We took to Nafplion, a city located in Peloponnese Greece, an attractive tourist destination. Like many seaport towns, Nafplion has endured crushing crusades (Ottoman springs to mind). In 1827 it became an important city within the first Hellenic Republic in the Kingdom of Greece.
A 45-minute taxi drive into Athens, followed by a walk around the 5th-century BC Pantheon through the Plaka, brought back memories of previous visits to this city.
We visited two of the biggest and perhaps less travelled islands – Syros and Chania in Crete. Both lovely, with warm and friendly people.
The western Aegean coast of Turkey was a complete surprise. We visited a privately owned art gallery and wine farm in Cesme, a resort town, and drove through Kusadasi, a fast-growing modern area (it reminded us of Franschoek), where Istanbul residents have second houses to escape a tourist-overrun Istanbul. A leather clothing store close to the harbour invited us to ‘kom binne en koop a mooi baadjie”. Many Turkish entrepreneurs lived and worked in South Africa in the 1980/90s. Throughout our time in Turkey, the men spoke passionately about failing governments, the cost of living, the refugee situation and two wars close to Turkey’s borders.
Last stop was the ancient site of Ephesus. We were treated to an extraordinary experience of chamber music, seated among some of the most famous ruins in the world, as the sun lazily dipped below the horizon.
Our verdict
Sea cruises may not suit everyone. However, for the curious and adventurous, they offer comfort, security, diversity, and a massive range of things to do and people to meet.
Kotor MontenegroListening to a band playing ABBA on the pool deckCesme
Standing naked on our terrace at our timeshare just south of Lapland, we didn’t feel awkward as we looked out at a lake and forest. The two of us, Louis and Stephen, were having a sauna in our chalet and then went outside, where it was -4 to enjoy the “Finnish experience” even though there was no snow to roll in.
“What happens if anyone walks past?” Louis asked. “Don’t worry,” I said, “the Finns do this all the time – and are used to it.”
“By “the Finns”,” Louis asked, “Do you mean us as the Finns or the Finns who actually live here?” “Both,” I responded, as a man walked by with his dog and greeted us. Both of them had jackets on.
I’d wanted to go to Finland for decades, not only because of my surname but because of its reputation as a liberal country with its tranquil forests, freezing lakes and incredible music tradition. One of our favourite composers is the fantastic Jean Sibelius. Actually, when I was in primary school and my Dad bought an LP with loads of tracks, I used to stand in front of the radiogram (as it was in those days) and conduct Sibelius’s “Finlandia”, a wonderful tone poem that underlines a desire for independence from oppression.
We’d been warned that the Finns of Finland were unfriendly, unhelpful and taciturn; they evidently don’t engage in small talk. We found just the opposite: incredibly friendly, helpful at all times and some of them more chatty than even I, Stephen, am.
So, you might well ask, what were the highlights (apart from cavorting naked near a lake). The music performances were spectacular: an opera, Animal Farm, written by a Russian in English, performed at the opera house across the road from our hotel; at the same venue the next night, magnificent ballet; the following night saw us in Lahti for a programme of Sibelius – brilliant; and the next one at the concert hall down the road of, among other works, Brahms’s Symphony No 3 – another of our favourites.
What was exciting was to see the age mix of people at all of these performances: as many youngsters were there as the more “mature”, with dozens coming along on their bicycles.
The concert hall in Helsinki is the most beautiful we have ever been to anywhere in the world, dominated by a magnificent steel sculpture that we worked out was actually the organ. It’s one of only two of its kind.
And then there was the phenomenally beautiful Sibelius monument, echoing in steel the flow of his music.
We also did a joyous parkrun along a lake, with loads of cherry trees festooned with blossoms.
As we’re vegan, we had wondered beforehand how well we’d be able to eat. Our hotel had a complete plant-based menu for breakfast and all the restaurants we went to for our suppers catered happily for vegans: Nepalese, Chinese, Italian – and Finnish, with the Helsinki train station having a fantastic restaurant.
We found something even better when we went by ferry across the Baltic Sea for a day in Tallinn, Estonia. It was very interesting, and we found a vegan restaurant just off the main square with incredible food.
Would we go to Finland again with its wonderful architecture (you should see the new library in Helsinki), where there’s no littering, everything runs to time and with its residents evidently being the happiest in the world? Of course, we’d love to but as there are so many other countries we haven’t been to yet, it’s unlikely. Is it one of our favourite of the fifty or so countries we’ve been to? It certainly is. And that’s the naked truth.
This trip had been on our Bucket Wheel® for a long time. We first planned a camping tour in 2019, but our enthusiasm was met with concern. Family questioned whether we had the stamina for the dusty roads, desert heat, and physical demands of camping. It gave us pause, but only briefly. After a few months (and many conversations), we decided that no matter what others thought, we were going.
Namibia had captured our imagination – and we weren’t giving up on this dream!
Just as we finalised the itinerary, Covid hit. Tours were cancelled, our chosen operator closed down, and the plan went on hold. In the meantime, we ticked off other adventures: watching whales in Hermanus, walking among elephants in Addo, and completing the Camino in Spain.
By mid-2024, we decided to try again. But with overseas visitors booking up most tours, we began to think it wasn’t meant to be. Then, unexpectedly, a new tour date was added, and we secured two spots! The only catch: it wasn’t designed for over-65s. After back-and-forth emails and a doctor’s note, we were officially confirmed. The planning could begin – properly, this time.
From Cape Town to the Orange River – new landscapes, new friends
Our journey started in Cape Town, winding through the Cederberg and Namaqualand, where the roadsides were blanketed in wildflowers. Crossing into Namibia, we spent our first night on the banks of the Orange River, waking to golden sunrises and riverside breakfasts. We had wisely chosen the “comfort” option – no tents to pitch, just simple chalets.
One of the unexpected highlights was the group itself – 20 travellers from Germany, Denmark, Spain, Canada, the UK, and Australia. Our Zimbabwean driver and guides were exceptional – keeping us well-fed, comfortable, and entertained. Each morning began with coffee, oats, toast, and fruit prepared over a gas stove, eaten in a circle of fold-up chairs. We shared stories, and everyone pitched in to clean up.
Canyons, forests and desert dunes
We explored Fish River Canyon, walked along its breathtaking rim, and stood in awe of its vast silence.
Keetmanshoop became our base for visiting the Quiver Tree Forest, Giants Playground, Dune 45, Sossusvlei, Dead Vlei, and Sesriem Canyon.
Climbing the dunes was no easy task – legs burning, feet sinking into the sand – but the views from the top made every step worthwhile.
The landscapes were stark and bare yet rich in beauty. Early mornings brought a surprising chill, catching us off guard more than once!
One evening, as the sun set over the dunes, we were treated to stories from a local guide – featuring spiders, snakes, and a few creatures we were glad not to meet in the sand where we sat.
Tropic of Capricorn, Skeleton Coast and Cape Cross
On our way to Swakopmund, we crossed the Tropic of Capricorn – just a simple sign in the middle of the desert. Standing there felt strangely significant, a reminder that we were journeying through places we’d only ever read about in school geography books.
We continued to the Skeleton Coast and Cape Cross, where we saw parts of an old shipwreck and watched a seal colony in action. Another unique and powerful view of this beautiful desert country.
Swakopmund was a highlight. We took a boat cruise in the bay, laughing as seals clambered aboard and pelicans flapped their enormous wings near our heads.
A seafood lunch and warm sherry made it a day to remember, followed by a festive dinner with local food and music.
From there, we travelled through the scenic Brandberg region to Etosha National Park. While animal sightings were few, the experience was unforgettable … especially when our truck broke down on a lion crossing! We were escorted to camp by armed rangers. Dramatic, but definitely a story to bring home.
Our journey ended in Windhoek, where we explored museums and monuments and got a taste of local life.
This trip reminded us that you’re never too old for adventure. Sometimes, the best things just take a little longer. Namibia gave us stories, laughter, and the deep satisfaction of saying: We did it.
It is no secret that South Africa faces deep challenges when it comes to childhood literacy, particularly in reading and understanding English. While the causes are complex, what stands out more powerfully is the work of people who choose to be part of the solution—one child at a time.
One such person is Chartered client Roy Irvine, who recently joined an inspiring initiative called The Link Literacy Project.
Founded in 2010 by Margi Bashall, The Link is a registered NPO staffed entirely by volunteers who are fluent in English and passionate about helping children—no teaching experience is required. The Gauteng Department of Education recognises the programme and currently supports 18 schools across Johannesburg, with that number steadily growing.
Roy, who completed a TEFL course and has always had a passion for reading, saw The Link as an opportunity to encourage and assist the next generation to discover the joy of reading.
The Link’s methodology is both simple and effective. Volunteers commit to just 2.5 hours a week at a centre of their choice—Roy’s is in Melville. They are guided through the process and then paired with a Grade 2 or 3 pupil for two 45-minute sessions, separated by a short break. Together, they focus on key skills like pronunciation, letter formation, and word construction through blending—turning learning into something both fun and empowering.
Roy describes the transformation he’s witnessed in these children as remarkable. “At the first session, the children are very shy,” he says. “But very soon, they get used to this new person and start opening up and really engaging in the material.” One of his standout moments has been seeing the joy on children’s faces when the tutors arrive: “They’re so enthusiastic, chatting with their tutors about all kinds of topics.”
The teachers at participating schools have also embraced the programme wholeheartedly, recognising the rapid improvement that just a little one-on-one attention can bring to students struggling with English literacy.
The biggest challenge The Link faces is not funding or materials—it’s volunteers. “Come along to a session and just sit in,” Roy encourages anyone who’s considering getting involved. “Many tutors have been doing this for years, and a new volunteer will quickly see the joy that both the children and the tutors gain from the experience.”
At Chartered, we’re inspired by clients like Roy who are living out their values and making a tangible difference in their communities. If you’re interested in joining The Link or just want to learn more, visit www.thelinkliteracyproject.co.za.
This is the third novel that British author Clare Pooley has published in the past five years, following the success of her debut novel, The Authenticity Project, and 2022’s offering, The People on Platform 5.
How to Age Disgracefully is a light-hearted read with a message about ageing and intergenerational connection, sometimes humorous and sometimes poignant; it’s a heart-warming tale to add some joy to this Valentine’s month.
Clare Pooley has gathered a colourful and quirky cast of characters, some with lives that haven’t turned out quite as they’d hoped. There’s midlife Lydia, who is dealing with an empty nest and a pompous straying spouse, trying to find herself again after years of being the perfect wife and stay-at-home mom. Teenage dad Ziggy is grappling with early onset responsibilities and an environment threatening to derail his attempts to make a better life. At their local community centre, their lives intersect with a group of senior citizens – Daphne, whose years of self-imposed isolation hide a secret, a failed actor with a bad habit estranged from his family and, of course, a prolific knitter. A scruffy canine is thrown into the mix when its elderly owner meets with a freak accident.
They band together for a cause dear to them all – saving their community centre from demolition after the council deems it structurally unsound and a commercial developer looks set to buy the site. Their combined efforts to raise funds for repairs engage everyone from the preschoolers to the seniors who have come to rely on the centre’s facilities. From a nativity play to a pet talent contest, they try every avenue to bring in money to get the building back to standard. Clare Pooley writes with wit and sensitivity, and she clearly believes that age shouldn’t limit your capacity for fun, creativity, challenge and adventure.
A copy of How to Age Disgracefully is available for short-term loan from the Chartered Client Library.
We are singularly blessed to spend our retirement in what I consider to be my very own Garden of Eden. Our home is nestled in a magnificent coastal forest estate on the KZN North Coast, where we enjoy breathtaking sea views and are surrounded on three sides by pristine coastal forests.
Living so immersed in nature is incredibly therapeutic, though it has its share of unexpected visitors. We’ve had our fair share of snake encounters—usually harmless Natal Green snakes (at least, according to me!). The abundance of monkeys can be troublesome, but we’ve learned to baton down the hatches when they come through. Fortunately, they don’t linger for long. We purchased monkey screens for Christmas, which has certainly helped keep them at bay!
A Leap of Faith: Moving from Gauteng to the Coast
I was initially reluctant to leave my life and home in Gauteng – we spent 54 wonderful years in Vereeniging. Quite frankly, I couldn’t imagine calling anywhere else home. Although we owned our coastal house for nearly 30 years, it was always just our holiday retreat.
Taking the plunge to move permanently was a significant decision but one we don’t regret. Our new life is even better than our old one. Still, I’ve realised that embracing change requires actively seeking out new experiences and opportunities.
Golf, Friendships, and the Unpredictable Weather
As an avid golfer, I quickly found my way onto the fairways and was warmly welcomed by a fantastic group of like-minded women. In a good week, I play up to four rounds—though the weather here is far less predictable than on the Highveld. Wind and rain make for challenging conditions, but if you wait for a calm day, you won’t play much golf at all!
A Commitment to Conservation
Caring for the environment has always been important to me, and I’ve found a wonderful way to contribute through a monthly beach clean-up group. Walking along the shoreline, I can’t help but pick up discarded plastic and polystyrene—so much so that I now won’t go for a beach walk without a garbage bag slung over my shoulder.
Beyond the beach, the estate boasts well-marked walking trails winding through the coastal forests. These walks often bring me face-to-face with bushbuck, blue duiker, and a spectacular variety of birdlife. There’s something deeply meditative about strolling through these trails, surrounded by nothing but the quiet hum of nature.
Quizzing, Camaraderie, and a Good Glass of Wine
My husband and I are keen quizzers and have been lucky to join a local quiz team. More often than not, we’re the go-to sources for any pre-1980s trivia! Despite the age gap, our younger teammates have embraced us warmly. Of course, no quiz night is complete without a delicious meal and a few generous glasses of red wine.
Up Close with the Estate’s Feathered Residents
I recently had the privilege of joining a bird-ringing event on the estate, where expert birders set up special nets before sunrise to safely capture and tag wild birds for research. Each bird was carefully weighed, measured, and released, with the data sent to the University of Cape Town.
The findings were fascinating—a resident crowned eagle is at least 29 years old, and a tagged bird returning from Antarctica had lost 50% of its body weight on the journey. We even learned how to hold a bird properly; some remained perched on our fingers despite being unrestrained. With over 250 bird species on the estate, it was a rare treat to get up close with around 20 of them, including the elusive Marsh Fluff Tail.
Living in Our Own Garden of Eden
These are just a few of the many reasons why we believe we live in a little slice of paradise. Retirement here has been more rewarding than we could have ever imagined. What more could anyone ask for?
When we think about the legacy we want to leave behind, it’s not always about financial inheritance or material wealth. For many, it’s about creating lasting memories, imparting values, and sharing meaningful experiences that will be remembered for generations. Chartered clients Trevor and Rina White chose a different path when considering their legacy. Instead of focusing solely on financial inheritance for their grandchildren, they wanted to create something more personal, something that would resonate with their family for years to come. Here, they share their heartwarming journey of crafting a living legacy through shared experiences.
“While discussing our estate planning, as guided by Chartered Wealth, my wife and I decided that our financial inheritance planning would be limited to our children, allowing them to decide what would accrue to their children (our grandchildren). From the birth of our two grandchildren, one now eleven and the other eight years old, we, as grandparents, have been involved in their early childhood development. We’ve taken them to and from school, sponsored and accompanied our granddaughter to piano lessons, and our grandson to jiu-jitsu lessons.
We decided that instead of leaving them money, we would find a ‘lasting experience’ that we could share with them as a family – something our grandchildren would hopefully always remember us for, as their Oumi and Oupi!
We considered a long list of possibilities, such as pleasure cruises, skiing trips, Mauritius, the Kruger Park, or even a visit to Disney World, just to mention a few. However, none of these really ticked all the boxes. We wanted to be together as a family, actively involved, while also considering the costs and ensuring the experience was fun-filled for everyone.
Having done a barge trip on the French canals nearly a quarter of a century ago, my wife and I felt that this could be exactly what we were looking for. It combined transport and accommodation in one, with the grandchildren being old enough to act as crew members when entering and exiting the many locks along the way. They helped the lock-keepers with opening and closing the manually operated locks and cycled into the towns and villages to buy fresh provisions such as bread and milk. As a health-conscious family, the grandkids cycled alongside while one of us jogged on the traffic-free cycle routes, which run parallel to all the canals, keeping up with the boat as it made its way along the waterways.
The trip turned out to be everything we had hoped for and more. The weather was perfect, everything went according to plan, and we worked together like a well-oiled machine. The grandchildren were involved from start to finish; they were never bored and seemed to love every minute. We, as grandparents, truly believe we have given them an unforgettable experience that they will carry with them into the future. And the best part? We were able to share it with them!”
What began as a simple search for a unique rental unit for their property, Little Orchard, turned into a labour of love—the transformation of a forgotten train coach into a luxurious retreat. Clients, Jeff and Sue Lawrence, inspired by the magic of their past train journeys, discovered Coach 26806, a weathered sleeper coach in Ladysmith. Though stripped of its former glory, it still held immense potential.
Transporting the 34-ton coach to Wakkerstroom was no easy feat, but Jeff and Sue were determined to bring their vision to life. This wasn’t just about restoring a piece of history; it was about creating an experience that would evoke nostalgia and craft lasting memories. Every detail, from the Rhodesian teak floors to the custom windows and vintage memorabilia, was chosen with care and dedication.
Stepping inside the train, you can immediately feel the love and thoughtfulness that went into its transformation. The upcycled rail brackets, Sue’s handcrafted stained glass, and original South African Railways touches all contribute to a space that feels luxurious, personal, and full of history.
It’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind and forget to live with intention. But Jeff and Sue’s story reminds us of the importance of living intentionally. Their journey beautifully embodies so many aspects of the Wheel of Balance: Play in their nostalgic escape, Work in their dedicated restoration, Purpose in creating a meaningful space, Money in transforming a relic for income, Relationships in their shared passion, and Learn in preserving the train’s history.
For my husband and me, staying at this unique accommodation was more than just a weekend getaway—it was a chance to reflect. As empty nesters, we found ourselves asking, What is our next journey? What excites us now? The experience reminded us that pursuing passion isn’t always easy, but it is worth the ride.
Our visit to Wakkerstroom coincided with Wakkerstroom 165 Stories of the Anglo-Boer War festival. The town, known for its birdwatching, history, and natural beauty, was bustling with excitement. From vintage car parades and Zulu dancers, Transvaal Scottish Pipes and Drums to fascinating talks on the Anglo-Boer War, Wakkerstroom’s charm was on full display. The friendly people, wonderful restaurants, and lively atmosphere made it an enticing destination.
If you’re looking for a getaway that inspires and offers a unique experience, I highly recommend visiting Wakkerstroom and staying in The Train. It’s a chance to rediscover what excites you.
“Sometimes, the journey leads us to destinations we never imagined, but those are often the ones that make the ride worthwhile.”- Anonymous
When Chartered client Ingrid Davidson and her husband Alistair retired to the coastal town of Plettenberg Bay, she was looking forward to peaceful mornings and long walks on the beach; what she didn’t expect was to find herself reliving the exuberance of her youth, thanks to an enthusiastic invitation from her dear friend, Mary Connock.
Mary introduced Ingrid to the Granny Grommets, a lively group of women who have turned the beach into their playground. Twice a week, this spirited group gathers at Robberg Beach at 10:00 in the morning, ready to embrace the waves and leave behind any cares that might have followed.
The Granny Grommets, as the name might suggest, is a group of women who have discovered the sheer joy of boogie boarding. The term “Grommet” originally referred to a young surfer or someone involved in extreme sports, highlighting this group’s youthful, adventurous spirit. But don’t let the “Granny” part fool you—this group is for anyone with a zest for life, with members of all ages joining in the wave-riding excitement.
Initially hesitant, Ingrid was quickly swept up by the group’s enthusiasm. The moment she caught her first wave, all her reservations melted away. The exhilaration of being tossed about by the ocean, the laughter that echoed across the beach, and the sense of freedom that came with every ride reminded her of the playful days of childhood.
And it wasn’t just the wave riding that captured Ingrid’s heart. After an hour of fun in the surf, the group plunks down on the beach, flasks of coffee in hand, sharing stories, solving the world’s problems, and indulging in delicious treats. It’s a time of connection, camaraderie, and simple pleasure.
Ingrid’s Wednesday and Friday mornings have become the highlight of her week. The Granny Grommets have given her a sense of community, energy, and an unexpected source of joy. Even the chilly water can’t dampen the spirits of this group—though, of course, they take a well-deserved break during the colder months when the sharks make their appearance.
So, if you find yourself near the shores of Plett, grab a boogie board and join them—all are welcome.
After a distinguished 40-year career in banking, Chartered client Eddie Coetzer never imagined he would find himself deeply immersed in the world of baking. Having retired in July 2022, Eddie’s transition from financial services to sourdough starter began unexpectedly but with profound passion and purpose.
“In my wildest dreams, I never thought I would become a baker,” he admits, having never baked anything significant until recent times. His only prior baking experience was a cinnamon cake, fondly nicknamed the “Dallas cake,” during his childhood.
Eddie’s retirement coincided with a family crisis. His mother-in-law’s cancer diagnosis led him and his wife to the UK for six months. After returning to South Africa, he sought solace and a new direction. Eddie always liked the idea of a father figure baking something that the family enjoyed. His initial thought was a bread of sorts. Inspired by the prevalence of sourdough and gluten-free breads in the UK and Canada, his wife suggested he explore baking healthier bread options, particularly as she is gluten intolerant.
A course at Melville’s Crust and Crumb ignited Eddie’s passion for sourdough. “I fell in love with the whole process,” he shares. This enthusiasm quickly transformed into a small business, which he named ‘Sour Ed’s Bread’. Eddie began by baking loaves and sharing them with friends and family, who encouraged him with their positive feedback.
Recognising the health benefits of sourdough, particularly for those with gut issues and diabetes, Eddie expanded his repertoire. He took a gluten-free baking course, resulting in two popular varieties: whole grain blend and white blend gluten-free breads. These breads, praised for their taste and quality, are more affordable than store-bought options.
Eddie’s bakery operations are modest but efficient. He converted half of his double garage into a bakery with a deck oven and prover. Despite the challenges of working alone, Eddie’s dedication to his craft is steadfast. “I’ve baked over 1,200 loaves,” he proudly states, balancing his time between baking sourdough twice a week and preparing gluten-free options. In addition to bread, Eddie has recently ventured into making rusks under ‘Ed’s Rusks’. “I’ve baked 265 kilos of rusks in the past few weeks,” he says. This new product line has been well-received, adding another dimension to his burgeoning business.
His venture also includes selling at local markets and at a water shop, Agua e Vide, in Krugersdorp. Though expanding further is logistically challenging due to the thin margins and high labour intensity, Eddie is content with the current scale of his business. He maintains a Facebook page and a WhatsApp group for regular customers, ensuring a steady flow of orders without overwhelming his capacity.
A crucial aspect of Eddie’s journey is his faith. Deeply connected to his beliefs, Eddie feels that his newfound path is guided by God. His faith has provided him with the strength and clarity to navigate this unexpected career shift.
Eddie’s story is not just about a career shift but about finding joy and purpose post-retirement. His passion for baking has brought him immense satisfaction and a sense of fulfilment that was missing in his corporate life. “I never felt truly at home in the corporate world,” he reflects. “Now, I wake up excited about baking.”
His story is a reminder of the power of reinvention, faith, and the joy of finding a new calling, even after decades in a completely different field.
Although our intention was to attend the Fairest Cape Rally, we decided to turn the journey into an adventure, visiting new places and making memories with good friends. Joining the rally with our Pretoria Old Motor Club (POMC) companions, Hylda and Tinus Steenkamp, made the trip even more special.
We kicked off our journey early in the morning, celebrating the start of our adventure with a Wimpy breakfast, complete with milkshakes and cappuccinos.
Our first stop was Britstown, where we booked into a charming guest house – the owner was quite the talker! We all agreed that a relaxing evening stroll was needed, so we ventured out to the hotel for a delicious buffet dinner featuring a leg of lamb and springbok pie.
Our destination for breakfast the next morning was Loxton, a charming town in the Karoo region of the Northern Cape Province and a two-hour drive from Britstown. It was the perfect choice! We enjoyed a scrumptious breakfast, and the locals thoroughly entertained us with the most interesting conversations. We were spoilt for choice with lovely spices with intriguing names like “Varkerig” and “Oorlams.” From there, we ventured over the escarpment and entered Vanrhynsdorp to spend the night. Vanrhynsdorp is a small town with a distinct Victorian character, famous for its Nama Karoo vegetation, succulents and fynbos, and offers a wide range of cultural and historical experiences.
It was time to slow down our journey, and the following day was spent exploring the beautiful Cederberg. We visited Lamberts Bay, stopped by Leopoltsville, and finally reached Hermanus, where we booked into The Esplanade Apartment Hotel for four nights. We savoured long walks among the wildflowers, enjoyed the stunning sea views from a beachside bench, and dined at outstanding restaurants like Dutchess, Fick’s Pools, and Bientang’s Cave.
We arrived at Goudini Spa for the Fairest Cape Rally six days into our adventure.
We were warmly welcomed by Leon Stander, the scorekeeper, and settled into the Slanghoek Luxury Villas for three nights. On our first evening, we enjoyed a beautiful view over the Breede Valley and a good old South African braai.
The rally kicked off the next morning with over 70 entries, most of them veteran motorcycles. Fortunately, a few classic cars and a touring class for newer cars were also allowed to enter.
We participated in the fastest speed category (80km/h), driving without instruments but finding opportunities to accelerate, primarily through the beautiful Bainskloof Pass.
After a stop at Riebeek Kasteel and lunch in Tulbagh, we headed back for a relaxing soak in the warm water pool at Slanghoek, taking in the breathtaking view after a long day on the road.
We rallied again the next day, embracing the thrill of the open road. Later, we drove to Ceres for a delightful lunch, where we shared countless stories about motorcycles, reminiscing with laughter and, at times, tears as we connected over our shared passion and all our memories.
The last evening was a highlight, with a gala dinner and a prize-giving celebration. It was wonderful to meet so many new friends, but the time eventually came to part ways.
This road trip was a journey of camaraderie, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable memories. If you ever have the chance to join the Fairest Cape Rally, don’t hesitate – it’s an adventure you won’t want to miss!
Swimming is a great way to keep mentally and physically fit. Many of us, however, need considerable motivation to take the plunge – so to speak.
South African Masters Swimming is a fraternity of aqua enthusiasts who enjoy keeping fit and setting their sights on maintaining or shaving seconds off their previous personal best times. The year’s highlight is the Masters National Championships, which brings together swimmers across South Africa and beyond for a 4-day gala. The excitement of the 379 swimmers – aged 20 to over 90 – is invigorating; everyone is decked out in their club colours, greeting their comrades and competitors, and eyeing the 50m pool with apprehension – or eagerness to clinch bronze, silver, or gold medals.
I met Marion Hollander at Chartered, and we both swim for the largest team, Wahoo Masters. Our section of the stand is generally the most festive, with a swathe of 120 purple t-shirts, banners, silly hats, and other festive paraphernalia.
The 2024 Masters Nationals was a first for Marion: “This was the first time I swam in a gala since primary school – let alone a Nationals Masters Gala! It was terrifying, and I was completely out of my comfort zone. However, I managed to swim in all my races and even got a bronze medal for coming third in one of them. It ended up being a fantastic experience. I met many people, including Sandy, whom I recognised from Chartered Wealth! What a wonderful four days!”
I have swum with Masters for many years, inspired by my teammates who, well into their senior years, continue to relish their sport and strive to break South African records. Our oldest swimmer, Patrick Galvin, a 91-year-old Australian, holds breaststroke world records in his age group and South African Colours. Hosting our American team members added a bonus social dimension to the event for my family. Each member of my relay team earned a silver medal, a proud memento of the event.
Marion and I, fuelled by the fun, friendship, and fitness of Masters Swimming, are ready to set the bar of our achievements even higher for the 2025 40th Masters National Championships.
My journey with SMART (Stranded Marine Animal Rescue Team) began after our retirement and move to Mossel Bay. This non-profit, established in 2015, rescues stranded marine mammals and turtles. Our role is to respond quickly to animals on beaches, prioritising their well-being.
While Cape Fur Seals basking on rocks is normal, pups washed ashore during storms need our help. When pup strandings are reported, the SMART teams immediately respond so that the pups can be picked up and taken to a place of safety. We reunite them with their island home as soon as possible. Sadly, three sick Sub Antarctic Seal Pups we found resting last year didn’t survive.
Similarly, dolphins, whales, and turtles on beaches are unnatural occurrences requiring our immediate response. For live animals, we keep them safe, educate onlookers, and ensure they aren’t touched or fed. Resting animals don’t need water or covering! Injured animals are evaluated by a vet for possible treatment. SMART even supports global research by collecting data from stranded or deceased animals.
We believe ocean education starts young. SMART educates children through school visits with Sammy, our entertaining turtle mascot. Dressing up as Sammy also provides us with many giggles trying to get in and out of the costume!
Joining SMART fulfilled the “give back” section of my Bucket Wheel® and has enriched my life beyond measure. It has given me a renewed sense of purpose, and the best part is that I get to learn, play, and work in the most incredible office ever – the beach!
Dreaming of escaping the Johannesburg hustle for open roads and scenic vistas, Chartered clients Huida and Granville set out on a motorcycle trip with a twist: Granville had a secret agenda – to scout potential semigration destinations. Little did they know, George would capture their hearts with its charm, natural beauty, and a hidden gem of a house waiting to be discovered.
Their initial odyssey wound through towns like Prince Albert and Tulbagh, each offering unique flavours of life. While Port Owen’s remoteness didn’t resonate, Gordons Bay, a place they loved, didn’t offer any houses that suited them. Montagu’s historical allure tempted them, but having a Woolworths within a 5km radius remained a dealbreaker for Huida.
Reaching George, they met up with friends who had already made the leap, and their glowing experiences about George ignited a spark. The town’s clean, friendly atmosphere left a positive impression. But the true magic unfolded on a breathtaking motorbike ride up Outeniqua Pass. Lush valleys, ancient forests, and panoramic vistas unfolded with each turn, sealing their desire for a change.
Back in Johannesburg, the “what if?” echoed. Inspired by a vision of their ideal home and a couple they met on their travels encouraging a “just do it!” attitude, they took on the challenge. The search for their perfect George haven began.
Despite initial hiccups – a damp property and limited options – they persevered. A serendipitous discovery led them to a magnificent house in Welgelegen Estate, ticking all the boxes, even the motorbike-friendly location.
With an accepted offer and their Johannesburg house sold, their semigration dream materialised. Moving in November 2022, the timing was perfect. Today, nestled in their haven, they’ve embraced the George lifestyle, made new friends, and explored the Garden Route’s wonders.
Their journey is a testament to open hearts, serendipity, and the courage to take a leap of faith, proving that sometimes, the best destinations are discovered on two wheels and with an open mind.
Zoo Lake, a cherished oasis in Johannesburg, owes its origin to banker and mining magnate Herman Eckstein. In the late 19th century, Eckstein envisioned a lush city oasis, initially naming it Sachsenwald after Otto von Bismarck’s estate. After his death, his partners donated land to the Johannesburg City Council in 1904, leading to the creation of Herman Eckstein Park and a zoo. In 1906, an artificial lake, aptly named Zoo Lake, was added, becoming its centrepiece. The Coronation Fountain was added in 1937 to honour King George VI and Queen Elizabeth’s coronation and remains a famous landmark of Johannesburg.
Over the years, Zoo Lake has evolved into a vibrant hub for community gatherings, sporting events, and cultural celebrations. Its sprawling lawns provide ample space for picnics. In recent years, Zoo Lake has faced the challenge of litter, a common issue in many public spaces.
Stuart Norman, a Chartered client, has lived in Parkview for 17 years. Like many residents, his busy life prevented him from doing more than just using the park for recreational walks and bike rides.
One day recently, while walking around Zoo Lake, Stuart was struck by the amount of litter everywhere. Stuart had an idea and was determined to make a difference. He had been so impressed by the cleanliness of Rwanda on a recent trip, and he was convinced that if Rwanda could be cleaned up after its turbulent history, surely Zoo Lake could be cleaned up too.
Stuart’s initiative took flight when he reached out to a residents’ group, inquiring about the availability of a skip for an upcoming clean-up effort he had planned. The response was overwhelmingly positive, prompting him to establish a dedicated WhatsApp group exclusively for residents eager to rejuvenate Zoo Lake. Stuart then forged a partnership with the Zoo Lake Users Committee, setting the wheels in motion for their inaugural clean-up event.
The event was a success, with 13 paid staff and four volunteers participating. They filled 155 bags of rubbish, waste and glass. The second clean-up was even larger and more successful, collecting 210 bags of litter. It’s important to note that these clean-ups are not focused solely on picking up the litter left behind, as the council already employs staff for this purpose. Rather, the emphasis lies on revitalising the general area, the lawns and the lake itself. To clean the lake, volunteers are equipped with pool nets, allowing them to retrieve discarded bottles and plastic from the water.
Stuart has managed to raise R19,000 in donations to date, and local businesses have stepped in to help. The money raised is used to provide lunch and refreshments for staff and volunteers, buy equipment needed and pay the staff hired to help with the clean-up. Several of the individuals employed to clean the lake reside in nearby shelters and appreciate an extra day of work and pay.
Stuart is committed to making Zoo Lake a clean and beautiful place for everyone to enjoy. He believes that the key to sustainability is to have a long-term strategy. Stuart’s vision extends to involving all the suburbs around Zoo Lake, mirroring the successful approach that transformed Central Park into the beloved destination it is today. You can’t help feeling inspired by Stuart’s story as it really proves that change begins with you and that you need to be the change you want to see in the world.
After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, Chartered client and former priest, Gill Bowman, discovered a new purpose in art. She had always been passionate about art, even studying it after matric, but her faith and community work took precedence. When she was put on disability leave due to her diagnosis, she realised it was time to rekindle her passion for art.
During a life planning session at Chartered, Gill realised how much she wanted to get back into art. She started doing mandalas and found the process both meditative and healing, describing it as getting the thoughts in her head out onto paper. During lockdown, Gill took online courses from the Learn to Paint Academy and the ETCHR Studio, as well as motivational courses from Jessica Serran.
Gill primarily works with acrylics, occasionally dabbling in watercolours. She soon began selling her art and displaying it at local galleries, spending up to six hours a day in her studio creating her paintings. In December this year, Gill will exhibit her work at “Art on the Veranda” in Bushman’s River. She has also been invited to showcase her art at the prestigious Grahamstown National Arts Festival in 2024.
Gill has turned her art into a new side hustle and also finds it beneficial in managing Parkinson’s symptoms. She says that painting helps to calm her hands and body, as well as her overall anxiety.
Roy, her husband, has been a great supporter of her journey in the world of art. He helps with the framing and other tasks, and she fondly refers to him as her assistant.
When asked about her new purpose in life, Gill said that she had two choices when her purpose as a priest was taken away by Parkinson’s; she realised she could either choose the tomb and see this as the end of her life – or choose the womb, an opportunity to start a new one. Her choice is obvious.
Gill’s story is an inspiration to us all. It shows that we can always find new purpose and meaning in life, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges.
In the serene heart of Eswatini (Swaziland), Chartered Clients Cheryl and Duncan are embracing retirement as a time for rejuvenation and self-discovery. Their story shows how retirement can be a time for reinvention and new possibilities.
Cheryl and Duncan’s backgrounds were as diverse as they were successful. Duncan had spent his career in the meat industry, while Cheryl owned an industrial laundromat. After retiring, they embarked on what they thought would be a leisurely chapter in their lives. However, after just 18 months, they realised that retirement wasn’t about slowing down; it was about finding new avenues for stimulation and growth, so they took over the lease of a coffee shop in a nursery in Malkerns, Swaziland.
Despite working seven days a week and managing six staff members, Cheryl and Duncan love their new venture. Duncan has always loved baking and cooking, so he spends much time creating new recipes and training staff on how to make them. His latest additions to the menu have been well-received by customers.
Cheryl uses her skills honed during her years in the laundry business to manage the back end and bookkeeping. Cheryl and Duncan spend a lot of time mingling with customers, most of whom they know personally since they have lived in Ezulwini, Swaziland, for 32 years.
Despite their full-time commitment to the coffee shop, Cheryl and Duncan recently took a well-deserved break to visit their newborn grandson, Max, in Zimbabwe. This cherished family time was a reminder for them that retirement is about finding a balance between work and life’s other joys.
Cheryl and Duncan are inspiring examples of how to reinvent oneself in retirement. They found something they are passionate about and are now running a successful business. They are actively involved in their community and continue to grow, learn, and contribute to the world around them.
Cheryl and Duncan’s story reminds us that:
It’s never too late to reinvent yourself.
Find something you’re passionate about and pursue it.
Chartered client Anne Holden has always been driven by her passion for creativity. With a BA in Fine Arts and a PGCE from Unisa and Wits, she began her career coordinating events and designing decor for weddings and corporate functions. Later, Anne transitioned to teaching Visual Art to Grade 10 to Matric and Arts & Culture to Grades 8 & 9. After dedicating 15 years to teaching, she retired in 2021 at the age of 65, ready to explore new artistic ventures.
Unfortunately, in late 2021, Anne was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer, which led to her spending a significant portion of 2022 in and out of the hospital. Despite these challenging circumstances, in between medical treatments, Anne found solace and a means of self-expression through her creative pursuits, specifically mosaic work and painting.
In 2023, Anne decided to embrace her passion fully and established her own art business called AnneArtz. She now teaches painting in retirement homes, provides private lessons, and hosts monthly workshops at her home in Risidale. These workshops explore mosaic work and ceramic painting, offering participants a chance to create their own artwork to take home.
Anne’s commitment to nurturing young talent led her to host a delightful kiddies’ holiday workshop featuring various art activities over five mornings.
Beyond teaching and workshops, Anne showcases her art at Lifestyle Garden Centre and Hadeda, offering ready-made products such as pots, plaques, and stepping stones. She also takes on commissions and recently transformed a nursery school’s firepit with beautiful mosaic scenes. She is currently working on a large mosaic garden “dance floor” for a client.
As a personal project, Anne created a stunning Mexican-inspired wall in her garden, painted in a brilliant blue and adorned with her own mosaic work.
Please visit Anne’s Facebook page for more details about her workshops and art.
Are you searching for a new way to boost your mental health and express yourself? Consider giving neurographic art a try. The technique was developed by Russian artist and psychologist Pavel Piskarev in the early 2010s as a way to help people express themselves and overcome creative blocks. Today, neurographic art is popular around the world as a simple and accessible way to engage in a mindful and enjoyable activity that can benefit mental and emotional health.
Some of Gill van Rooyen’s Neurographic Art
Neurographic art is an excellent way to reignite your creativity. As we age, our creativity can fade, but this art form offers a chance to discover a new outlet for self-expression. Neurographic art is accessible to all, regardless of artistic skills, and has no rules or guidelines for what your design should resemble.
To begin your neurographic art, start by gathering the necessary materials: a pen or marker and a piece of paper. You may also choose to have additional colouring supplies such as coloured pencils, markers, or paint on hand.
Next, find a quiet and comfortable place where you can focus on your drawing. Choose a starting point, such as a dot or a small shape, and begin to draw continuous lines and shapes that flow spontaneously. Allow your pen to move freely, without lifting it from the paper, and see where the lines take you.
As you draw, try to focus on the present moment and allow yourself to be in a meditative state. Pay attention to the sensations you feel in your hand and body as you create your design. You may find it helpful to take deep breaths and allow yourself to relax into the process.
Repeat the pattern until you feel that the piece is complete. You can add colour if you like, using markers, coloured pencils, or paint. Remember that there are no rules or expectations for what your pattern should look like, so allow yourself to be playful and creative.
Don’t be concerned about your artistic ability or the final outcome of your design – the process is what counts. So why not give neurographic art a try and see how it can benefit you?
Client Story Gill Van Rooyen
The Healing Power of Neurographic Art
Last year, Chartered clients received a retirement tip from us about neurographic art and the many benefits it can offer. One of our clients, Gill van Rooyen, who had always been interested in art, was intrigued by the concept and decided to give it a try. Since then, she hasn’t looked back.
Gill has no formal art training but enjoys oil painting and acrylics. What she found most appealing about neurographic art was the combination of art and mindfulness. Gill can sit for hours and let her creativity flow, which helps her find clarity and peace of mind. She is guided by her energy, which allows her to create beautiful art that is unique to her.
Gill shared her newfound passion with a friend whose brother was diagnosed with acute leukaemia. It became a healing practice for both her friend and her brother. They spent many hours in the hospital doing neurographic art, which proved to be a therapeutic and helpful activity. It helped Gill’s friend deal with her grief, and her late brother’s artworks were framed and cherished.
For Gill, neurographic art is more intuitive than colouring in. She did a lot of research, including looking on Pinterest and YouTube for inspiration and techniques. The practice of neurographic art allows her to be in the moment, focusing on the lines and shapes she creates. It’s a meditative process that allows her to express herself freely and without judgment.
Here are some links that Gill suggests to help you get started:
Having undergone a double knee replacement in 2021, my husband Stephen and I decided to relish his remarkable and wonderful rehabilitation and cash in on this golden period of our lives together.
I did some research and found a fantastic option on the Garden Route. Mark Dixon, an outdoor enthusiast with a magnificent protean knowledge of ecology, biological science and nature conservation led our hike. We were joined by a UK couple in their early sixties, enjoying an outdoor adventure in South Africa. Mark organizes trips and highlights the incredibly rich fossils on our coastline, the indigenous trees, geology, insects, marine life and avian specimens. We learnt such a great deal about a myriad of impressive elephant, crocodile, buffalo and hominoid footprints found on the coastline ranging from Wilderness to Brenton-on-Sea. Touching and beholding these 120 000-year-old remnants was indeed a huge privilege.
We covered about 60 kms by foot, nearly all on pristine beaches and traversed the Garden Route and Goukamma National Parks, sleeping in private and Cape Nature reserve accommodation.
The route also encompasses 15 kms of kayaking on the Touws and Goukamma rivers. Much fun and many enjoyable experiences were had, and at one stage, our kayak capsized, and Stephen, Mark and I fell in the temperate river. We laughed our way back to the bank and continued canoeing in high spirits seeing a magnificent Fish Eagle soaring overhead and then roosting on the banks of the river. Being outdoors, enjoying perfect weather and seeing unspoilt conservation coastline was a huge inspiration, physical experience and treat for both Stephen and me.
Garden Route Coastal Meander can be reached at gardenroutetrail.co.za or followed on Instagram. It is well worth the effort if you would like to expand your physical and intellectual horizons.
Like many wine lovers, my interest in all things wine began while as a student at university and studying microbiology was an added catalyst. I joined a wine club which assisted me in gaining exposure to a more diverse range of wines. As time progressed, I soon realized how little I knew and signed up for the wine courses offered by the KWV and, later on, by the Cape Wine Academy. These were wonderful learning opportunities and a great place to meet new friends, especially on the practical courses. Holiday destinations were carefully chosen in wine regions both locally and internationally.
As our combined knowledge and confidence grew, we started visiting key wine regions in France, Italy and Spain … these will always remain as highlights of our travels. Visiting and tasting wines at these Holy Grails of world wines was very special. On one of these trips, I met Graham De Villiers, the new owner of Mont Rochelle Vineyards in Franschhoek. He sensed my interest in wine, and by invitation, I spent three harvests working in the Mont Rochelle cellar doing odd jobs but learning all the time as well as making lifetime friends.
We were fortunate to have a wine cellar at home which provided more than a place to store wine, it was often somewhere to entertain friends and, of course, solve the problems of the world. Wine cellars are interesting places where one can develop a special relationship with the wine styles that you prefer.
We undertook a major renovation of our home in Somerset West in 2016, and it was then that the idea of developing a micro vineyard on the property was conceived. We had roughly ¼ of an acre to develop, and this was large enough to plant 110 vines which, by my calculation, could yield sufficient grapes to make a standard barrel of wine. The vineyard development took just over two years and included a soil analysis and preparation, water availability, trellising design and cultivar selection. Our “stokkies” were planted in September 2018, and then the work of training the vines began. We decided on a Shiraz scion grafted onto a robust 101-14 root stock. Each year the vines became stronger as they developed, and we had our first full harvest last year (2022). Following nine months in oak, this vintage was bottled in late January 2023. I am very pleased with the final product which shows typical varietal characteristics, a good colour and soft tannins. No resting for now though; the 2023 harvest will be ready for picking at the end of February. Thanks to my family and friends for their continued support and encouragement.
Barbara and Andrew McGregor’s recent visit to Phinda private game reserve was a Bucket Wheel® item for them. With so many interesting and varied sightings, it was an experience that didn’t disappoint.
Phinda is in northern KZN, situated between the Mkuze Game Reserve and the Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park. Covering an area of 170 km², it features seven distinct ecosystems, resulting in an unusually rich diversity of fauna and flora, including many species endemic to the Phinda area.
Having not been to Phinda before, endemic sightings were “lifers” for the McGregors. They included a “flutter” of Black Swordtail butterflies having fun in a pool of muddy water on the road, Tonga red squirrel, Bell’s hinged tortoise, Neergaard’s Sunbird, Pink-throated Twinspot, along with several trees and bushes.
Other highlights included a close encounter with a herd of elephants (in a vehicle that refused to start) and excellent cheetah, rhino, and leopard sightings. However, all these were outdone by a fabulous encounter with a pangolin.
Pangolins, also known as scaly anteaters, are unique mammals found in various parts of the world, including South Africa. They are known for their distinctive scales, which cover their entire body. These scales are made of keratin, the same material that makes up human hair and nails. They are known for their keen sense of smell, which they use to locate ants and termites, their primary food source.
They are nocturnal creatures and spend most of the day in burrows or termite mounds. This sighting in broad daylight was, therefore, extra special. They watched it for over an hour as it moved along the side of the road, seemingly oblivious to their presence and very engaged in sniffing out dinner.
There are two species of pangolin in South Africa, both of which are endangered due mainly to illegal hunting for their meat and scales. Pangolin scales are highly valued in traditional medicine and are used to treat a variety of ailments. Their meat is also considered a delicacy. Pangolins are a sought-after commodity on the illicit wildlife market.
Barbara and Andrew’s visit to Phinda was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. They were able to see some of the most elusive and endangered species in their natural habitat, all while enjoying the luxury and beauty of the reserve. They left with a reinforced appreciation of the incredible biodiversity of South Africa’s natural heritage.
