Accommodation:

• Bonani’s lodge can sleep 12 people. The lodge overlooks the great Ntsingwayo Dam. Facilities available consists of catering (on request), a braai (barbeque) area, cleaning services and a deck for game-viewing;
• Game drives and picnics can be arranged; and
• Bonani’s campsite has 12 camping stands, for tents and off–road caravans. The ablution block has running hot water and flushing toilets.

Hunting:

• Bonani provides licensed all year hunting for the enthusiastic hunter. There are seventeen species of game to choose from. There are slaughtering and meat preparation facilities;
• A shooting range for setting rifles;
• Bonani is also ideal for bow hunting;I
• n season birdhunting is possible;
• A qualified PH will accompany you on your hunt and trophy’s are available on request; and
• Taxidermist services are available on request.

Company hunting weekends and teambuilding facilities:

• Staff have the opportunity to get to know each other better when living together. Bring your staff for teambuilding day–trips or weekends;
• Company hunting weekends are an exceptional experience and great for teambuilding.

4x4 and Quad Biking:

• For the daring 4x4 driver there is a grade 3-5 4x4 trail. The trail is a 50km off–road track, which varies from dongas to mountain trails. The trail has a 1km river obstacle that can be incorporated with a lovely picnic; and
• All the off–road routes are suitable for quad bikes and trails for soft-roaders are also available.

Bird-watching:

There are 365 species of birdlife at Bonani, which makes it ideal for bird lovers.

Conference facilities:

Conference facilities with the capacity to accommodate up to fifty people.

• Conference facilities with the capacity to accommodate up to fifty people;
• Year end functions are fully catered for and can be planned to accommodate any budget.

Engagement parties and weddings:

• Engagement parties can be planned and specialized to your needs and budget; and
• Beautiful and unique weddings can be planned in a bush setting. Bonani has great possibilities for photos and videos of special days.

Activities:

• Hunting;
• 4x4 and quad biking;
• Hiking;
• Skiing on Ntsingwayo Dam;
• Absailing;
• Game drives;
• Conferences;
• Team building; and
• Children’s outings in the field.

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The facilities include:

•  Two bedroom flat;
•  Two bedroom park home;
•  Single bedroom park home;
•  2 x Igloo's;
•  Caravan;
•  Rondawel; or
•  Three bedrooms in the main house.

Entertainment:

• Satellite television;
• Swimming pool;
• Wedge and putter – 9 holes;
• Fishing opportunities– carp, bass and barbell;
• Variety of games – pool, darts, jukskei, volleyball, table tennis; and
• Craft Shop – Biggarsberg Buy ways.

Charl Marie caters for:

•  Day visitors;
•  Small Groups; and
•  Small conferences.

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Boat rides are available by prior arrangement, and canoes are for hire at a nominal fee.  A shop with bait, liquor, wood and other basic provisions is open daily.

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The Hindu Community are well served with Sathsangs held on various days of the week for the full enlightenment and needs of the Hindu Community. The Temple is open to all and visits can be arranged by contacting Mr. Rajen Bhowani on +27 34 621 2432

The Dannhauser Hindu Temple Society was founded in 1984.  The building of the temple took sixteen years to complete.  The Hindu Temple is situated in End Street and was inaugurated on the 08 July 2000.  It also has an ample hall that caters for weddings and related functions. 

The Dannhauser Hindu Temple Society caters for the needs of the Hindu community not only in Dannhauser, but also in the surrounding areas.  Feel free to visit this venue, first making an appointment with Mr Rajen Bhowani.

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The new Mosque was rebuilt in 1973 on the same site as the previous building. One can hear the familiar sound of the Mu’azzin calling the faithful to prayer five times a day, this sound having become an integral part of life in Dannhauser as everybody goes about their business.

Guided tours to inform visitors about the religion of Islam can be arranged by contacting Mr. Anwar Amod or Hosain Mahomedy.

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WH Forsyth was the first acting principal and JB Chalmer the first appointed principal, appointed in 1907.  Dannhauser Primary School presently has an enrolment of 503 learners and 140 learners in the hostel.  The hostel draws learners from all over the country.

The school has, since 1994, taken a lead in the area in all fields and has assisted schools from all walks of life to become self-reliant.  Dannhauser Primary School during 2004 received a certificate of merit from the Ukhahlamba Educational Region for "playing a significant role in the transformation of school sport in the region".  Workshops are regularly held at the school, and Dannhauser Primary School is an important landmark in the area.

The School welcomes old scholars to revisit their roots and they are able to peruse their class marks in the accurately kept archives.

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A group of ex-workers were trained in practical welding skills as well as business and management skills. Their business is situated in the 'Old Locomotive Shed' which has been renovated to suit the present situation. The old building dates back to the 1930’s and was used to maintain the steam engines that pulled the coal trucks from Durnacol to the Dannhauser station.

The steelworks now produces engineering structures as well as metal arts and crafts.  They also make beautiful garden gates, made on order.

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A local says that Horizon has "the best vegetarian briyani". 

The food at Horizon is good value for money and quality oriented.  Khanti specialises in East Indian food where the spicing is traditional and pungent.  A speciality at the Horizon is the bunny chow, rated by locals being the best in the province – mutton is the speciality and is the most popular. 

A bunny must be eaten using only the fingers – no cutlery required.  It is affordable, delicious and it takes a big appetite to tackle half a hollowed out loaf of bread filled to the brim with oozing gravy and topped with a thick wad of crustless bread.  There is no better way to mop up the gravy than with the bread ‘lid’ of this famous dish.  A group of friends sharing bunny together bring about a sense of ‘comaraderie’ – something that no other meal can do … and the atmosphere at the Horizon is just right for that.    

This uniquely South African cuisine unites all communities who instantly recognise it as the ideal for lunch or any time meal.  But where did it all start? According to Kanthi, who has been making bunny chows and other Indian and Western dishes at the Horizon restaurant in Dannhauser for the past 15 years, the origin can be traced back to the turn of the century.  "The term bunny chow is firmly entrenched in South African vocabulary; it has even been included in Professor Jean Barnard’s dictionary of South African English".  Derived from the original term Bania, which refers to Hindus belonging to the mercantile class and who are vegetarians, the slang arose in Indian restaurants in the province that served hunks of bread with a spicy bean curry.  Bania chow was destined to become bunny chow. 

Horizon hosts annual functions for example a Valentines Day Dance, Mother’s Day Dance, Spring Ball and Christmas dinner/dance. 

Like all chefs, Kanthi does not give any secrets away when it comes to preparing the curry that goes into the bunnies at Horizon. She and her husband, Prakash, have been providing food to local residents and visitors since June 1986.  They focus on hospitality, home-cooked food, friendliness, quality service.

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"When I was retrenched in 1999 I decided to use this as an opportunity to do what I’ve I wanted to do all my life – to grow flowers.  I have a self-built tunnel and two large green houses.  I joined the Clivia society in 2000 and started by purchasing a few seeds and planting them.  The Clivia is an indigenous plant that is used by the Inyangas (traditional healers) for medicinal purposes.  The first plants were removed from SA and taken overseas where they were improved in the eighteenth century.  South Africa has a Clivia society with branches all over the county, and host flower shows during the month of September every year.  There are many fine breeders of these beautiful flowers in South Africa; I am just a small one.’"

It is now possible to get some of the plants from the breeders without having to remove them from the forest, which is putting these plants in danger of becoming extinct.  It is one of the most beautiful flowers in our country. 

There are five species of the plants in South Africa.

• Miniata;
• Nobilis;
• Garden ii;
• Caulescence; and
• Mirabilis (which is not available to the public just yet).

Clivia growing is big in Japan, China, Australia, Belgium, the United Kingdom, New Zealand and the USA, and these countries all have Clivia societies as well. 

The flowers flower at different times, depending on species. 

"I am old and wish that by allowing visitors to visit my collection that this will allow an opportunity for a young person to start a Clivia collection, which could be very rewarding for him or her.  I get between 100 and 150 visitors during September and this gives visitors the chance to see so many at once.  I have presented at the show twice – in 2003 and 2004 – and won the best on show, runner up to best on show and first place in 2004.  I would be prepared to, and enjoy, sharing my knowledge and skills with anybody that would like to start growing Clivias."

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The pleasure resort hires out chalets and caravan sites to visitors who desire to stay longer and there are hiking trails and horse-riding facilities available for the more adventurous, as well as paintball war games.

This pleasure resort is situated on the banks of the Tom Worthington Dam in Hattingspruit, and there are canoes and rowing boats for hire. Most guests are fishermen, and they can fish for bass and carp. There is a night hiking route for stargazing. There are historical graves on the property, believed to belong to English cavalry/soldiers.

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• Provide effective, efficient and reliable land transport to local schools, communities and others;
• Provision of a safe, quality transport to government institutions e.g., hospitals and correctional services; and
• Offers door-to-door transport services to and from guest houses, airports, lodges and different destinations in KwaZulu-Natal and beyond.

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On the following pages you will find sample tours that can be taken from Newcastle. These do not have to be strictly adhered to but they do give you a very good idea of what can be done.

Dave offers a number of different tours, all within a 140km radius of Newcastle.

ANGLO-ZULU WAR OF 1879 ISANDLWANA AND RORKE'S DRIFT:

Follow the trail of Lord Chelmsford's ill-fated, Central Column as they cross the Umzinyathi River at Rorke's Drift and invade Zululand.

See the hills where they skirmished with Sihayo's warriors before finally making camp on 20th January. Follow the events that lead to the Zulu attack on the 22nd January and the massacre of some 1300 Imperial troops and Native levies on that fateful day. Let us show you the fearful trail taken by the fugitives in their desperate flight back to Natal.
Visit the Mission station at Rorke's Drift defended so heroically by the men of "B" company 2/24th Regiment as they fought a desperate 12-hour battle against fearful odds earning 11 Victoria Crosses in the process.

This tour takes one day and includes a briefing the night before, visual information, a guide, visits to the drift at Rorke's Drift, the orientation centre and battlefield at Isandlwana, the museum and battlefield at Rorke's Drift, lunch and time permitting a tour of the fascinating, multifaceted museum at Talana.

THE TRANSVAAL WAR OF INDEPENDENCE 1880 – 1881
LAING'S NEK, SCHUINSHOOGTE AND MAJUBA:

Follow the trail of Gen. Sir George Pomeroy-Colley and his Natal Field Force as they try to break through the defensive line of Comdt. General Piet Joubert's Burghers and enter the Transvaal.

Visit the museum at Fort Amiel, which was the commissariat and starting point of Gen. Colley's expedition.

View the Battleground at Laing's Nek, where Joubert's Burghers repulsed Colley's line regiments for the first time forcing them to retreat to Mt. Prospect.
Stroll over the Battlefield of Schuinshoogte where the Burghers of Nicholas Smit forced Colley's 'show of force' to retreat back to Mt. Prospect.

Climb the legendary Majuba, where Cmdt. Gen. Piet Joubert's Burghers inflicted, on Colley, one of the most humiliating defeats the British Army has ever suffered when they forced the British off their 'impregnable position' on top of the mountain causing some 258 casualties to their own six.

Depending on whether you want to climb Majuba - and it is a worthwhile climb - this tour will take between half a day and a day and includes a briefing the night before, or on the battlefield, visual information, a guide, and visits to Fort Amiel Museum, which is a typical frontier fort, the Battlefields of Schuinshoogte, Laing's Nek, and Majuba. Time and transport permitting, visits will also be made to O'Neill's Cottage where the truce was signed and the British Cemetery at Mt. Prospect. Lunch will be taken at Majuba Commemorative Farm.

ANGLO-BOER WAR 1899-1902 LADYSMITH, PLATRAND, SPION KOP, COLENSO, CHURCHILL CAPTURE:

Follow the events that lead to the Siege of Ladysmith, get a first hand look at what it was like besieged in this "little, dusty town" that managed to keep the Boer Forces at bay for one hundred and eighteen days to become "famous to the uttermost ends of the earth".

Visit the Platrand where on the 6th January 1900 the desperate Battles of Caesar's Camp and Wagon Hill were fought. Or perhaps you may prefer to visit that "bloody acre" on top of Spion Kop where one of the most fruitless and bloody battles of the war was fought on 23-24th January 1900. There is also an option of going down to Colenso or on to the Churchill Capture site and returning via the Tugela Heights where Boer and British fought it out over 14 days before the British finally broke through to relieve Ladysmith on 28th February 1900.

Listen to the tales of courage and fortitude by the men of both sides and visit the numerous monuments to those who fell in these desperate struggles.

To visit all these sites takes more than a day, so one has to be selective taking Ladysmith and Spion Kop, or Ladysmith and Platrand, or Ladysmith, Colenso and the Churchill Capture site. Some variations on this arrangement can also be accommodated depending on timing.

The tour includes a briefing, an orientation the night before, visual information, a guide, visits to the Siege Museum in Ladysmith and a selection of other sites including the Anglican Church in Ladysmith, Platrand, Spion Kop, Colenso, the Churchill capture site and the Tugela Heights.

Depending on the sites chosen lunch will be either a picnic lunch on the battlefield or a light lunch at Colenso Club.

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One of these projects, called Isiphethu (a Zulu word meaning 'fountain') has received national acclaim. The works produced by this group of women are beautiful hand embroidered and appliquéd images reflecting an aspect of their personal lives.

Isiphethu began in l999 when a group of women from Madadeni and Osizweni came together to sew a wall hanging for a Woman’s Day project organised by the gallery. The project inspired the women to continue creating these unique pieces.

Each woman creates her own design, chooses her own subject, decides on the colours and creates pictures in a distinctive and individual style. All the embroideries tell stores, some are events in the lives of the women, others are legends and historical incidents and some reflect modern day living.

The gallery continues to help with providing a venue for them to meet, providing materials and helping to find markets.  Each woman creates her own designs to fashion fabric ‘storybooks’ that tell their own unique tales; wall-hangings and tapestries that are sought after by locals and visitors alike.  Many of the items produced in various workshops and projects are sold in the gallery shop.

The art gallery holds regular temporary exhibitions and art events and promotes local arts and crafts through its shop.  A list of talented artists and crafters can be obtained from the gallery.   

The shop has a wide variety of other items for sale including Zulu beadwork, gemstones, object d’art, traditional Zulu beer pots and items made from waste materials such as telephone wire and papier mache.

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The owners, Krishni and Neeran, are dedicated to the comfort of their guests and offer the best in modern, up-market accommodation within a warm, friendly family environment.  Relax in the formal lounge, also with television and video features.  There is ample parking space in the secure parking area.  Guests can also cool off in the sparkling swimming pool.  Braai (barbeque) facilities are also available. 

Enjoy luxury accommodation in one of the three stylishly decorated bedrooms.  All rooms have television sets.  Two of the rooms offer exclusive pillow top, queen size beds and one family room offering one pillow top queen and double bed, each individually decorated in a modern setting.

Krishni’s describes how the business started:

"My husband, Neeran, and daughter, Colene, and myself have travelled for many years on business trips, frequenting hotels, lodges and B&B’s". 

"The comforts and experiences we all experienced over time was the inspiration to start our family business with the idea to also give other races the opportunity to experience our culture and lifestyle.  We began this business in October 2003 with minimum funds – lots of dreams, tons of love for people and are enjoying the whole experience of bringing together family values, and wonderful dinner and evening experiences with all our guests.  We add daily to our already wonderful and fruitful family."

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• Fully licensed farmhouse pub;
• Dinners on request;
• Pool;
• Laundry facilities;
• Satellite television in guest lounge with open fire place;
• Braai (barbeque) facilities; and
• Secure parking.

The lodge is in close proximity to shopping centres, golf courses, restaurants, pubs, cinemas and Monte Vista Casino.  The Farmhouse Lodge caters for the needs of the discerning tourist or businessperson.  English and German are spoken.  Visitors are invited to enjoy friendly hospitality in peaceful surroundings.

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Historical Tours:

Old Market Square:

Visit the old Market Square in Scott Street. Places of interest is the Town Hall, old Library (both declared National Monuments), the old fire station; a water pump and well and see one of the lamp posts dating from the 1880’s; and learn about the Coat of Arms of Newcastle. The tour is concluded with a visit to the Anglo-Zulu War / First World War Memorial.

Historic Newcastle By Car or Bus:

Visit 15 historical sites of Colonial Newcastle, by motorcar or bus. The tour starts in the old cemetery. Learn about the old families of Newcastle and see the Anglo-Boer War graves. From here the tour moves to the historic Kings Hotel and the two houses commandeered up by generals Joubert and Buller during the Anglo-Boer War. See the Dutch Reformed Church and manse and Stone House build for Dr. Ormond. Then visit the Anglican Church, 82 and 84 Paterson Street and 87 Harding Street. Further down Harding Street visit the Methodist church, Masonic Hall and St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church and manse. The Bank of Africa and Hindu Temple concludes the tour.
   
The Armoury:

Visit the old Armoury on the corner of Hardwick and Scott Streets. This historic building was erected during the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879 by the Newcastle Mounted Rifles. It was used as an arsenal where weapons were stored under very strong security. The original steel doors or chubbs, imported from Britain, can still be seen. Admire the firing platform with rifle turrets or loopholes for the protection of the troops who would man the Armoury. Today the building is being occupied by the MOTHS. A Stuart or 'Honey' tank from the Second World War can be viewed in front of the building.

St. Dominic's Academy:

The first convent in Newcastle was founded by Mother Rose Niland in 1896. In 1909 the present property was bought by the Order of St. Dominic. Brother Nivard Streicher designed  the red brick buildings in the New Romanesque style that resembles the great monastic tradition of the Middle Ages. In the grounds is the Pavilion built in 1916 as a skating rink and gymnasium. It was also used for social or sporting events. It has been declared a National Monument. Today the convent is a private school administered by a board of Governors.   

There are numerous ghost stories told in and around Newcastle. In particular, Fort Amiel and the surrounding area are known to be haunted.

Ghosts Of Fort Amiel:

Fort Amiel and the surrounding area said to be haunted.  Since the erection of this British military outpost in 1876 it has been the last resting place of many soldiers who are buried a short distance from the fort in the cemetery. Two sightings of a soldier have been seen in the Cook House. This red coat soldier once 'slapped' an unfortunate gardener through the face and in another incident 'lifted up' another worker and “dropped” him while reminding him that he did not give him permission to enter. In the Royal Engineers Store a sighting has also been made.

A resident in one of the houses in the present suburb of Amiel Park, close to the fort, eventually moved away after unbearable noises, amongst others the galloping and whinnying of horses, started every night at 12 o’clock. Many residents still find rusted horse shoes and other remains of the military activity of the past in their gardens.   

Fort Amiel is off the Memel/Vrede Road into Eaton Road, left in Amiel Road and then right into Fort Road. 

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• School camps;
• Church camps;
• Voortrekkerkamp;
• Landsdienskamp; and
• All other interested parties.

There are a wide variety of animals to see, including camels, exotic birds, African wild cats, porcupines, duiker, blesbuck, guinea-fowl, peacock and other poultry, sheep, cattle, horses, donkeys and ponies, emus, llamas, a variety of goat breeds ostriches, snakes, tortoises, rabbits, guinea-pigs ... there are in fact too many to mention them all. 

Visitors can enjoy educational talks on domestic and exotic animals and reptiles, have rides on an oxwagon, a horsecart as well as on horses, ponies and donkeys, and participate in various farm activities such as milking a cow.

Activities at Fun Farm:

• Bird-watching;
• Horse and cart rides;
• Foefie slide;
• Mud fights;
• Animal studies;
• Camp concert ('Camp Idol');
• Camel rides;
• Zulu dances;
• Marshmallow braai (barbeque);
• Obstacle course;
• Swimming in the farm dam;
• Walking with llamas;
• Night march – through the skeleton jungle; and
• Participating in farm activities (milking a cow etc.)

Fun Farm’s accommodation includes a safe place to sleep for boys and girls, complete with ablution facilities.  For adults accompanying the children there is an en-suite chalet.

What to bring when visiting Fun Farm:

• Enough clothing (farm use);
• Sleeping bag / warm blanket;
• Towel;
• A hat;
• Bible (optional);
• Own eating utensils;
• Torch;
• Toiletries;
• Warm jacket / jersey;
• Notebook and pen; and
• Raincoat.

Besides the camps, Fun Farm has a wide range of other activities to offer visitors.  Ever wondered what is was like crossing Africa before the internal combustion engine?  Well if you are interested in doing something different and having a great social time at the same time, why not join the 'GROOT, Groot Trek'!

The Groot Groot Trek - The trek to beat all treks!

Held every year along trails in the shadow of Majuba Mountain, the Groot, Groot Trek is a grand social occasion involving ox wagons, pony carts, donkey carts, horses, camels, emu and most of all people!

If you are interested in joining in a couple of days of wandering through stunning scenery and camping on the veld then give Fun Farm a call!

"If you cannot come to us, then we can come to you!"

Fun Farm Entertainment has long experience of visiting shows all over the country.  They can bring camels, miniature ponies, pony traps, even their children's farmyard 'Klein Plaas'.  The package includes their popular educational talks to young children, and anyone elsevisiting your show.  These talks are very popular as arena features during the morning when groups of school children are visiting and the talks are given in an entertaining manner involving the children and the animals.

Fun Farm has a wide variety of horse drawn traps and spiders fit for every stylish occasion, be it weddings, matric farewells, anniversaries or any special occasions.

Fun Farm  will arrange to bring its horses and carts to chosen venues wherever they may be in South Africa.

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A la carte Restaurant:

The Grey Goose is also proud to have a fully licensed a la carte restaurant, Gooseberries, that is open to the public, seven days a week - breakfast, lunch and supper.

Luxury Rooms:

All of the 28 en-suite rooms are individually furnished and provide every necessary facility to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable, tasteful furnishings give that true feeling of home away from home, with DSTV.  The lavish honeymoon suite has its own private veranda and built-in fireplace, with scenic views plus an atrium shower, romantic as a stopover or to spend your entire honeymoon.

Weddings:

Weddings are a speciality. Grey Goose is able to offer a full package to ensure that your special occasion runs smoothly.  There is a kitchen staff of five chefs and can cater for weddings up to 400 people.  We can make arrangements for the cake, flowers, decor, and music.  We also cater for special occasions, matric farewells, anniversaries, etc.
 
Wining and Dining:

Continental breakfast served, lunch served, lunch box on request, dinner served with a-la-carte menu offered, restaurant on premises, caters for vegetarian as well as halaal.
 
Leisure facilities:

Bar on premises, bird-watching, communal television, garden, horse-riding, mountain biking, swimming pool, volleyball, walking/hiking, 4x4 trails.
 
Business and conferencing:

Fax machine, internet-enabled PC, photocopy machine, caters for conferences, conference room, a choice of five venues, up to 500 cinema style.  television and video, overhead projector, whiteboard and data projector.
 
General facilities:

• Cots are available on request;
• Disabled-friendly;
• Family-friendly;
• Laundry service available;
• Unfortunately no pets are allowed;
• Safe parking available;
• Room service; and
• No smoking.

Room facilities:

• Fan;
• Heater;
• Telephone;
• Television;
• M-Net, Movie Magic and Super Sport channels;
• No smoking;
• Tea and coffee;
• Bed linen supplied; and
• Towels.

The Grey Goose offers horse-riding in the fields surrounding the lodge, where the game roam, as well as rides into the mountains.  The length of rides varies from hour-long rides to three-day rides.

Experience various South African wildlife species on horse-back, and find out just how close you can get to wild animals. Roam the plains at the foothills of the Drakensberg Mountains and experience some of South Africa's history firsthand.  Explore the Battlefields route with knowledgeable guides.  For the daring few, scale treacherous mountain cliffs with on surefooted ponies.  A breathtaking 360° view awaits you at the top along with the Ngogo River Camp.  There are two stone cottages, (pre-Anglo-Boer war vintage), that sleep fifteen people.  This camp is fully electrified with hot and cold running water.

• Fifty barn type stables;
• Individual and herd paddocks;
• Spacious tack room;
• Qualified stable manager, providing 24-hour supervision (living on property);
• Excellent grooms;
• Stallion facilities;
• Lunge ring;
• Large grass jumping arena, with show standard equipment; and
• Sand dressage arena.

Cross-country course with welcome to intermediate jumps:

With great effort and love for the beautiful Drakensberg Mountains, Grey Goose Lodge has developed 40km of hiking trials in the amphitheater of mountains visible immediately to the west of the lodge.  Indigenous trees have been name-tagged and the yellow wood forests, mountain pools and waterfalls are ideal for nature lovers or fitness fanatics.  Two beautiful mountain cottages have been developed, one below and accessible by ordinary car, and one on top of the mountains connected by the two day hiking route or by an exciting 4x4 route.

The cottages are fully equipped and electrified with deep freezers, braais and hot showers and sleep 15-20 people each.  These cottages are ideal for family get togethers, outings with friends or business colleagues, and can be separately booked as venues.  The cottages include a guide, helper, firewood, cutlery and mattresses.

The lodge has formed a commercial relationship with the Osizweni Theatre Production who do live traditional dance performances and plays, and sing traditional music, hymns and multi-cultural songs, including the National Anthem 'Nkosi Sikelela iAfrica'.  They narrate historical songs, events and rituals of the Zulu culture and South African history.  Their aim is unity and nation building and the formation of a true rainbow nation through their explorations.  Their slogan is “Together we strive for moral and physical perfection”.   
 
Osizweni Theatre Production:

The group comprises seventy youths, predominantly unemployed and school going, who are a non-profit organization that uses Osizweni High School and Community Hall as a rehearsal centre. 

Grey Goose is extremely impressed with the quality of their work and wishes to promote them as much as possible. The Lodge promotes them at weddings, functions, and parties, and strives to market them, also providing them with T-shirts, tracksuits and attempts to increase their earning ability, which at this stage is really poor.  This is due mainly to their large number and to the fact that they have to hire a bus costing R750-00 every time they travel to a performance.

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"We started our project in 2002 after seeing numbers of children dying of HIV/AIDS related diseases.  Our intention was to teach them to maintain their morals by keeping up our culture of the reed dance, Unomkhubulwano and Umkhosi wokweshwama."

Inkombandlela Community Development Project is a self-sustainable organization promoting non-discrimination in terms of equity glued with the self-imposed task of dealing with poverty and other social problems through skills development and empowerment, by integrating culture into the possible solution.  This project plans to develop the skills of the community from the youngest to the oldest members of society as long as they are willing to learn and better themselves and their surroundings.

Mission Statement:

This organization seeks to develop those people especially from the surrounding area of Jakkalspan Farm, Newcastle and its surrounding areas.  The focus is on unskilled and semi-skilled people, youth without employment and youth that have dropped out of school.  This is aimed at enriching those youth with skills that they will eventually be able to utilize to their advantage in the work market and that they eventually create their own jobs.  More especially, we will train, educate and develop these people how to manage and continue developing their skills. 

Inkombandlela also does traditional catering and can accommodate groups. 

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"As youth we grow fresh vegetables and sell them to the community.  We intend to teach our community and other interested gardeners about growing organic gardens.  We also intend in encouraging HIV/AIDS victims in using our method to create small gardens at their homes for fresh vegetables.  We make profit for the project by selling vegetables, erecting gardens for interested parties and do workshops for people on organic gardening".

"Interesting stories and history about Insika Yabasha Project can also be shared.  The project is not yet that wealthy, as it is still young.  It is formed by unemployed youth of Madadeni who are trying to create jobs for themselves.  Our gardening is cost-effective in a sense that we use organic waste to enrich the soil.  We do not use chemicals in our soil, instead we use weed plants as anti-pest in our gardens".

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"The project was started at the Roman Catholic Church in section 7.  When in 2000 we were no longer able to work from the church, we started working from a garage.  This continued until early 2003, when we were given land from the municipality and we built our own tin shack (umkhulu).  We are trying to get sponsorship for the development of a multipurpose building (for crafts including leatherwork – making sandles and handbags – sawing (ukuthunga) and making bricks)."

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The farm is ideal for school and youth groups – visitors have the opportunity to find out more about the local fauna and flora as well as the history surrounding the Battle of Majuba. 

There is a picnic and camping area, as well as short hiking trails up and around the mountain.

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At the lodge, tour groups receive personal attention with their own dining and bar facilities when on tour.  There is an excellent pub and restaurant on the same premises as the lodge, so there is no need to leave the grounds.

Activities offered at Majuba Lodge:

• Seminars and conferences (for up to 250 people);
• Battlefield tours;
• 4x4 Trips;
• Team-building;
• Organising of special events;
• Trout fishing;
• Sports weekends;
• Weddings; and
• Exhibitions.

For golfers and other sport enthusiasts, temporary membership can be arranged at Newcastle's golf course, tennis and squash courts.

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No substantial funds have yet been raised, but the group has persevered and continue to assist teachers at the local schools with training and educating the children in a number of areas that the group are passionate about. 

They are involved in visual art in the form of various dances, including gumboot dancing, music, drama and American traditional barn dancing.  For their art, they have used available resources like waste products to start this project.  Visual art includes fabric-painting, art using matchsticks, paper mache and stencilling. 

They focus on community development and help at both Sipmeni Primary School and Buhlebomzinyathi High School schools in Madadeni.

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The casino boasts a state of the art conference centre that is second to none in the region.  There are also four other top class function facilities available. They have a secure kids entertainment centre and sports field to cater for any sporting event. The entire complex is fitted with satellite television and for a true sporting fanatic Presley's Sports Bar offers the biggest big television screen in town. The casino boasts seven tables and 200 slot machines. The friendly, enthusiastic and reliable staff’s aim is to make gaming and conferences unforgettable.

The conference center has some outstanding features for those wanting luxury, elegance and affordability in one.  It has a spacious bar, big kitchen, stunning sound system and acoustics, unusual lighting features, spacious stage, a VIP balcony for special events, such as boxing tournaments, and romantic, tiled bathrooms.  This venue can cater for up to 300 dinner-dance patrons, 400 for banquets and 600 in cinema style.  The paneled dance floor is adjustable to suit differing requirements.

An Outside ‘Out of Africa’ thatched lapa, with a natural wood finish, thatched roof and spacious, raised carpeted stage area is also ideal for any type of function and is fitted with a state of the art sound system and lighting.  The spacious kitchen enables catering for all needs.

Take 5 Restaurant hosts an a la carte menu to cater for all tastes.  This is a non-smoking restaurant to ensure a smoke free experience for all patrons.  Take 5 restaurant can also be booked for functions to cater for up to fifty people.  The smoking bar situated at the entrance to the restaurant is fitted with satellite television.  Marilyn’s Bar is situated in the smoking area of the casino and offers ever-popular cocktails, tasty light meals and is also fitted with satellite television for sport enthusiasts. 

Other facilities include a top class kids’ entertainment area, clinic and sporting facilities.  Sports from soccer, rugby, netball, volleyball, athletics, squash, tennis and bowls have been catered for in the extensive sports stadium.

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Facilities:

• Trampoline;
• Splash pool;
• Snooker;
• Table tennis;
• Walks;
• Close to all surrounding Battlefields; and
• On Volksrust Road 23km from Newcastle, 21km from Volksrust.

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The lodge offers 24 luxury air-conditioned rooms with beautiful views, and caters for B&B with own restaurant and pub, conferences, weddings and functions.

Fishing is available in the lodge’s own Bass dam.

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In 2000, 36 members of the Nova Church from all over the world, stayed at this guesthouse.

The guesthouse caters for parties, weddings, meetings and other events.  Two of the many attractions are the dongas and the Blood River which runs not too far away. 

The guesthouse has ten bedrooms, two kitchens, one big dining room and a big open space for resting.  There is also a parking area and training centre. 

Osizweni Guesthouse offers guests an experience of vibrant township life.

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Among the things they do are:

• Woodwork/carpentry – benches, tables etc;
• Metalwork/welding – burglar bars, frames for chairs;
• Weaving – mats, garden chairs, washing baskets etc;
• Sewing – table cloths, school uniforms etc; and
• Beadwork.

The products that are made are sold from the in-house showroom.  The centre is fully-funded by the Department of Social Welfare and Population Development.

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The project has a number of aims, including:

• Education of students and the community on travel, tourism, eco-tourism and hospitality;
• To encourage people to take more pride in their customs, traditions and culture;
• To involve the local people in preserving the area and environment;
• Assisting poorer communities and schools to access resources and to recognise and unlock their own potential to continuously improve the quality of their own lives, and those around them;
• Due to the upliftment of the community, the crime rate will be reduced; and
• To encourage and assist the community to fight against HIV/AIDS.

The project has become firmly part of the mainstream tourism industry with the establishment of the Osizweni Travel and tourism Information office, based in Osizweni.  The OTTP is only the second tourism information office in the country to be entirely owned and operated by members of the local community.  Accommodation, tours within the local community and to the battlefields, arranging of brochures and business cards, can all be done through the OTTP.

For an experience of local styles and township tastes, the OTTP should be contacted.

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"After many months of research I spotted a niche in the market – to cater for the middle income earners in a venue that will keep them close to their homes.  I wanted to offer a place where they could take visitors, their family or a lover and enjoy some good African food and a drink, as well as having the opportunity to network".

The venue is aimed at taking African-contemporary entertainment to new heights, as well as attracting tourists to experience the township life.  With many years of business and marketing experience, as well as a profound passion for cooking, Tom established the Selimathunzi Restaurant and Pub. 

Food, alcohol and cigarettes are on sale, with a separate smoking section.  The interior design and the bar area are pieces of art, and the colours on the inside as well as the courtesy of the staff makes any visit a memorable one.  The venue is also ideal for corporate clients, and is available for business meetings, birthday parties and other functions.  The restaurant can accommodate sixty people.

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OpenAfrica.org

Delightful light meals for travels and holiday makers are served along with a variety of coffees for different tastes. The menu includes commercially produced light beverages, sweets, ice cream, and chips.

The antiques and gift shop stocks restored furniture, silver and crockery of yesteryear along with a wide variety of locally manufactured goods and art to please any eye.

Snowy’s Biltong has become well known not only in the District but with travellers from all parts of the world who regularly buy their products for friends and family back home.

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Spice ‘n All offers the public a great selection of spices, herbs, masalas, homemade samoosas, chilli bites and a variety of pickles.

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During the week the bar is open for people to watch the soccer and other sport on television, whilst enjoying a drink.  Thabo plans to shortly have food available for visitors.  Dishes will include Offal (inyama yangaphakathi), mielies (umbila), samp with beans (umqhushu) and other traditional African dishes. 

During the Summer, dancers are hired to perform traditional dances such as indlamu.  Tea and coffee specials are offered, as well as promotions where visitors can win prizes such as caps and T-shirts.  Thabo aims to keep his customers happy and well-fed.  

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To arrange for dance groups (for any function, big or small), contact Thembalabantu, who can arrange the following:

• Amahubo Boys and Girls;
• Indlama Dance;
• Ingoma Boys and Girls;
• Wedding Songs;
• Stage Play;
• Gum Boots Dance; and
• Iscathamiya.

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The trails are all in the Balele Conservancy, and you can choose between shorter outrides, longer trails as well as a ride in a horse-drawn cart.  The horses are all in good condition; Abel takes great pride in the well-being of his horses.

Abel’s business started with the help of Utrecht Municipality and the Balele Conservancy provided the facility, horses and equipment until he had his own horses and saddles.

The business only operates on weekends and holidays, or if an advanced booking is made.  Abel and one of his children operate the horses.  He has fifty years experience with horses, and can also speak Afrikaans.

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OpenAfrica.org

Fly-fishing for trout and yellowtail is available on 15km of the river as it traverses the estate. A multitude of forest tracks offer both scenic walks as well as quad biking opportunities, both along the river and through the surrounding forest. 

The lodge has an outside lapa, braai (barbeque) area and sundeck overlooking the river and is the perfect venue to give visitors that “get away from it all” feeling.

The area is also renowned for its birding potential and species noted in the vicinity of the lodge include Bald Ibis, all three crane species, African Finfoot, Stanleys Bustard and Ground Woodpeckers.

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Trout fishing can be done in two dams and 23 weirs on Pivaansrust, and there is a spectacular waterfall Pivaanspoort. 
Pivaansrust Country House:

The old stone-built homestead and outbuildings are lovingly restored and refurbished. Regular plaaswerf visitors are sheep, chickens, guinea-fowl and horses.  It comfortably sleeps eight in three en-suite bedrooms. The focal point inside is the comfortably furnished lounge with its fireplace - at Pivaansrust's altitude of 1800m it gets chilly in winter and occasionally snows. The Pivaansrust yard has been developed with a view to accommodate the needs of groups.

Pivaanspoort Family Farmhouse:

This rambling family farmhouse has manicured gardens and splendid northern views of the high country and down through the Poort that guides the Bivane River down to the Lowveld. Also an integral part of its setting and atmosphere is an adjoining working farm complete with huge barn, sheep, cows and pigs. The farmhouse makes it affordable and enjoyable to take the whole family along on a fishing trip.  It comfortably accommodates 12 people.

The three tastefully decorated bedrooms (one en-suite) are large, as are the common living areas. The kitchen with its old-fashioned coal stove is a particularly popular gathering place and the preferred dining area for most groups. Two large geysers and a wood-burning donkey ensure a reliable supply of hot water.  A rondavel next to the house can accommodate a further four people, or more, dormitory-style - ideal for youth groups.   

Please Note: All facilities are self-catered and fully serviced.

The Bivane Wetland Reserve uniquely offers exclusivity with affordability - a major advantage over many syndicated fly-fishing venues. 

The variety of fly-fishing conditions and challenges are advantages for the fly-fishermen, as is the closeness of most of the fly-fishing water - well-stocked dams, as well as streams and the Bivane River - to the accommodation.  This means that non-fishing members of a family can easily join the fishers for a while before continuing a ramble or returning to the homesteads. Either one may be used as a fly-fisher's base. Fly-fishing below the Pivaanswaterval, the reserve's most spectacular waterfall, which requires a short drive, can easily be turned into a fun outdoors day for the whole family. Bivane Wetland Reserve’s waters are stocked mainly with rainbow trout, but now and again a skilled fisherman will land the odd brownie. A catch-and-release policy applies.

Bivane Wetland Reserve regularly hosts fly-fishing clinics, presented by resident or invited experts. 
 
Horse-riding in the reserve is another favourite activity with visitors.  Riders have access to the entire reserve, regardless of which of the two homesteads they are staying at.  The horses are all of the fine South African Boerperd breed and comfortable English saddles are used.

The development of the South African Boerperd started shortly after the arrival of Jan van Riebeeck at the Cape in 1652. The first horses were imported from Java. Persian Arabs, Andalusian and Isabella horses were also imported, followed by Thoroughbred Stallions. These horses became renowned for their endurance, intelligence, hardiness and extreme surefootedness.   

The Cape Horse became popular and was established as a breed. Other breeds were subsequently introduced, such as Flemish Stallions, Hackneys, Norfolk Trotters and Cleveland Bays. Because of its unique characteristics, the breed was widely used by the Boer pioneers in their eventful migration into the interior of Southern Africa. The Boerperd also saw action during the Anglo-Boer War (1899-1902), and thousands were killed. Many horses were exported to Australia and the East, and they featured in the Crimean War.
An Auxiliary Register for the Boerperd was set up in 1905 at the Studbook Register of the Breeders Association of Transvaal. The register was poorly supported and became redundant between 1918 and 1921.  

The Boerperd Breeders Association of South Africa was formed in Memel in the Free State in 1973. A constitution was drafted, breed standards were compiled and horses were identified that were genotypically and fenotypically suitable for breeding.

In 1977, the name was changed to the Historiese Boerperd Breeders Association, and in 1980 the breed was officially recognised by the Department of Agriculture and affiliated to the South African Association of Bloodlines. Recognised within the breed were: the Eggo or Cloeteperd, also known as the 'Eggo' Boerperd, the Van Niekerk or A2 Horses (after a Mr. Van Niekerk from the nearby Wakkerstroom district), the Odendaal Horses, the Hanche Horses, Steenkamp horses (after a Mr Lang Carel Steenkamp, a direct ancestor of the Alberts family – three generations previous) and the Namib Horses (the latter in the 1990s).
The Boerperd was accorded the status of a fully recognised and developed indigenous South African breed, and was recognised as such by the Department of Agriculture in 1996. In 1998, the name of the breed was changed to the South African Boerperd - which has been recognised by the Department and the South African Studbook.

Although it is a working farm with sheep, cattle and horses, the logo is “Listen to the Silence”, so one can just enjoy the wild flowers or go for a hike.  There are also three crane species on this one site.   This is place to visit to rest your weary bones and recharge your batteries. 

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• Fly fishing for rainbow, brown and golden trout (catch and release);
• Bird-watching; and
• Scenic walks to battlefield structures and the indigenous forest.

Accommodation:

Accommodation is offered in two self-catering, fully serviced and spacious en-suite cottages with two bedrooms each, or one cottage with one bedroom, en-suite. All the cottages have their own fireplaces.

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The Trading Post is a springboard for visiting the Balela Dam, the country club, the bird biome, and the battlefields.  Hunting as part of the culling in the game park is also allowed, by arrangement only. 

There is a variety of homemade jam, chutney, salsa and fruitcake on sale.

Interesting stories and history:

Dr Niemeyer and his wife lived in the house prior to December 1939, and story has it that his wife was German and did not make friends very easily.  She would often be seen taking her constitutional around the town on her own.  Dr Niemeyer, on his death, bequeathed his money to erect a hospital, and today the Niemeyer Memorial Hospital is the only hospital in Utrecht.  The resident ghosts of Dr Niemeyer, who died in December 1939, and his wife, who died in January 1940, identified by photographs displayed in the Niemeyer Memorial Hospital, can be still be seen today.

There is also a section of the old water voor (furrow), which provided water to the properties in bygone days, at the bottom of the garden.

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For those who want to take part in the game park management, the park offers a limited amount of its annual “off take of animals” in the form of hunting packages to qualified hunters. With the registered game abattoir ready to prepare a bag to whatever is required, they offer the prospective hunter the ideal hunting destination.    

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OpenAfrica.org

This museum exhibits various artefacts from the Stone Age to the Victorian influences in Africa and the Utrecht area.

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OpenAfrica.org

"Our offerings attract the unique individual who possesses discriminating taste and appreciates a splash of glamour, luxury and adventure in their personal expression."

For those seeking a private and decadent mini-break, the two beautiful suites are well appointed with all amenities:

Mystique – 'An aura of mystery':

A voluptuous 55m² honeymoon suite for both honeymooners and those with an appetite for the best.  Elegantly appointed with breathtaking use of color and effortless style, comprising an open plan study / lounge and dressing room.  There is an en-suite bathroom with wet-room shower, corner bath and a marble vanity.  Secure private terrace off the lounge area for alfresco dining or a relaxing drink.

De’ja’Vu – 'A compelling sense of familiarity':

A Bohemian 45m² suite that exudes character and understated luxury, with an open plan lounge, desk area and a separate dressing-room with a unique Mediterranean bath cum-shower unit.  Offering panoramic views of the local mountains and indigenous garden, right from your private lounge, or alfresco terrace day-bed.

In-suite facilities:

• Private suites with own separate entrances and secluded terraces, for early morning sunning or smoking;
• Secure parking area, behind remote controlled gates, for which you receive your own remote;
• Decadent queen size beds, dressed with percale linen, electric blankets and choice of pillows;
• Climate controlled air-conditioning;
• DSTV on 74cm televisions;
• En-suite bathrooms comprising wet room showers, baths and marble vanities for your exclusive indulgence;
• Appointed vanity area with hairdryer and full length mirrors;
• Desk area provided;
• 'Honesty' bar fridge stocked with tasty treats;
• Magazines and books for your leisure;
• Complimentary snack and sherry tray on arrival.

Guesthouse facilities:

• Santorini Suites is situated on the edge of the CBD and within 1.8km of the Amajuba Mall where you will be able to satisfy all your immediate shopping needs;
• Dinner can be provided by prior arrangement, should guests prefer not to make use of the many popular restaurants nearby;
• Breakfast is available; either inside the suites or on the 'Alfresco' Terraces;
• However if you seek the company of others, a unique eating experience can be appreciated in 'Le Dungeon' or weather permitting, in 'The Courtyard' overlooking the tropical pool area;
• Braai (barbeque) and intimate venue facility in 'The Courtyard';
• The hosts specialize in brides getting dressed for their memorable day or / honeymoon couples staying over with romantic touches too thoughtful to mention….Be it is an anniversary or special occasion; exclusive packages can be tailor-maid for your individual preference;
• Crackling log fires in winter;
• Laundry service;
• Mini gym;
• Smoking in demarcated areas as all rooms are non-smoking;
• Special rates for extended stays.

A scrumptious full-house breakfast is offered to guests.  Breakfast is served between 06:00 and 07:30 from Monday to Friday, and until 10:00 on weekends.  Dinner may be enjoyed by prior arrangement.

Please note:  Please ensure that bookings are made in advance to avoid disappointment, regrettably no credit card facilities are available, therefore all payments are to be made either by EFT or cash.  Bookings can be made by telephone, fax or e-mail.

Guests are welcome to check into their accommodation between 14:00 and 20:00 on the day of arrival. Late or early arrivals can be accommodated by prior arrangement
Guests are required to check out by no later than 10:00 on the day of departure.

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KhayaMini offers:

• Upmarket fully furnished affordable self-catering or bed and breakfast accommodation with a private entrance;
• Lock up remote controlled garage and remote controlled entrance to the premises;
• Quiet serene area;
• DSTV;
• ADSL internet access availability;
• Large communal swimming pool and braai (barbeque) lapa; and
• 5-8 minutes from restaurants and fast food outlets, CBD and Victorian Mall movie theatres, 8-10 minutes from Newcastle Private Hospital and Century Casino, 12-15 minutes from most corporate companies and the Newcastle airport.

It is the ideal stay for:

• Tourists visiting the many historical battlefield sites around Newcastle, and other places of interest in Northern KwaZulu-Natal;
• Tourists on their way to Durban via the Midlands Meander or N3;
• Corporate Business people (Karbochem, ArcelorMittal, Dorbyl, Venco, Formosa, Granite Tiles, NPC);
• Patients (or their relatives) consulting the various medical specialities in town and at the Newcastle Private Hospital (Medi Clinic).

Newcastle - the commercial and industrial hub of the Amajuba District and Northern KwaZulu-Natal.  Newcastle nestles in a curve of the Drakensberg escarpment, surrounded by beautiful hills and valleys on one side and the rolling landscape of KwaZulu-Natal on the other.  It is surrounded by the historical battlefields of the Zulu and Anglo Boer Wars and approximately 90km from the Blood River and Ncome museums.

• In the area is also Mount Prospect cemetery and O'Neill's cottage where the peace treaty was signed.
• Utrecht - "the town within a game park" is 50km en-route to Blood River.
• Majuba Mountain where the world famous Battle of Majuba took place on 27 February 1881, is 30km en-route to Volksrust.  For a small entrance fee you will find a museum, youth lodge, camping and picnic facilities.  From the campsite there are foot paths to the top of the mountain.
  

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