Rivers of fun 2011
Written by FunGuy | 
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After some early spring showers that saw many a local farmer jump at the opportunity to put seed into the soil in the hope of an early crop, did the rains mysteriously stay away for quite a while.
This not only left our agri clan a trifle worried, but also the paddling fraternity, day by day watching the mighty Mzimkulu drop to a mere trickle of its former self.
Knowing all good things come to those who wait, as if on cue, did the rains arrive in abundance, albeit to the displeasure of some holiday makers seeking sunny outdoors activity, yet giving further credence to a local wisdom that "Only fools & foreigners dare to predict our weather"
The rains was obviously of much delight to not only our farmers but also the canoeing clan anticipating the running of the Land Rover Gear Fast Trak Drak on 30 December 2011, or FastDrak as most call it.
It's very different to the highly organised and professionally run full 2-day Global Trader Drak Challenge set to take place over 21-22 January 2012.
The FastDrak can best be summarised as a "One-day do-it-yourself" canoe race, a simple recipe proving very popular with entries reportedly having nearly doubled. It starts at the conventional Global Trader Drak Challenge start, and finishes at the conventional second day finish but done in one day. Covering 65 kms, 2 portages, for Singles and doubles, no organiser support is provided. You and your seconds do everything.
The river level went from low to very full and fast in a matter of 2 days, 
East Coast Radio's Andre Bloem warned on the day before the race that canoeists must wear safety helmets. With the sun breaking through on most days recently, the mighty Mzimkulu was again abuzz with canoeists and leisure tubing alike; the run-off water not quite clear enough for serious fly-fishing.
The holidays are far from over, and what better time to take advantage of the river conditions to go tubing or indulge in fly-fishing for one of the elusive big wild spawned trout between paddling events.
The pristine waters of our Southern Berg is a treasure to be preserved for all to enjoy, safely and responsibly, whether you're active on or in the water, or just relaxing on the side.
Just another of many reasons why it begs the question "Shouldn't you be here ?"
Southern Drakensberg Open Gardens Festival 2011Written by EventsCoord | | |
Please come, view and enjoy our Open Gardens Festival this year! |
Udumo Gospel Choir Monday, 01 November 2010 10:11 | Written by ArtsMan | | |
Hailing from the Southern Berg, the exciting a-capella voices of the Udumo Gospel Choir has become a firm favourite both far and wide. Featured at the already institutional Splashy Fen Music Festival of the area, where they have performed on various occasions, and now also at the White Mountain Music Festival slightly further north, proves their class beyond any doubt. Although Afro Gospel is their main focus, the choir also performs traditional Zulu choral works, as well as the ever-popular ‘Gumboot Dance’ and ‘Wedding Dance’. The Udumo Gospel Choir comprises some 20 members of the local community who have come together to share their gifts of voice and rhythm with everyone. Coming from various walks of life, they diligently practice their music in the evenings on a weekly basis; despite most being actively employed and having to travel from far. Their performances have graced many an august occasion, including the wedding of King Goodwill Zwelitini's daughter. They perform at various concerts and venues and is a must-see when one comes to experience the magic of the Southern Drakensberg. |
The Underberg/Himeville Garden Club proudly invites all to the SOUTHERN DRAKENSBERG OPEN GARDENS FESTIVAL 2011.
Of the most underrated assets of an area is its people.