The Kuhle crafts project was mentioned by Helen Gooderson in her interview with Billy Suter of The Mercury newspaper (9 November 2007). In the article she gives an introduction to the Project and an overview of what the future plans are for crafters in Underberg.
The Mercury on Friday November 9 2007
GOODLIFE Page 2
FAR from the madding crowd
Billy Suter
If you go into the hills today – well, to the Southern Drakensberg and, more specifically, the Drakensberg Gardens Golf and Leisure Resort – you’re in for a big surprise.
And not just the pleasant and welcome surprise of fresh air and majestic views of the magnificent Rhino Horn Peak, which towers over the 92 units scattered about the 860 – acre estate – but also the surprise of new additions and interesting new developments at this haven of peace and tranquillity. Only last weekend, the resort, which boasts the only 18 – hole golfcourse in the Southern Drakensberg, introduced its new sanctuary – a funky wellness centre with spa, Jacuzzis, saunas and a modern gym, where large windows overlook a pond with a fountain.
And another surprise is in store – within days the resort will introduce its fifth restaurant, The Vine Knot, which will have a garden theme with fairylights.
Craft project
Then there’s a new project at the resort which has got amiable public relations spokesman Helen Gooderson very excited.
Gooderson Leisure recently became involved in craft project with a difference, she explains.
“KwaSani Municipality has received funding from the European Union Gijima Local Economic Development to boost the quality and marketing of crafts in the area. There are some 200 active crafters in and around Underberg and Himeville, and each craft group has selected two representatives for specialised training at the resort, which is a partner in the project and provides training facilities and marketing support.”
Gooderson plays a key role by assisting with training and helping to identify funders and markets.
The biggest obstacle for rural crafters is that they are far from their markets and lack know-how on what customers want.
“The aim in providing training is to combine traditional crafting with contemporary ideas that will be attractive to buyers,” says Gooderson.
“The craft range is being developed specifically for hotel and home décor, and for corporate gifts. We are hoping we will be able to generate bulk orders by targeting hotels and B&B’s that are refurbishing, and corporate events, where companies want to give each guest a small, functional gift.”
Training started only in September and already the quality of beading and basketwork has improved at a rapid rate.
We are developing five line items for the end of this year – all done in black and white initially, and then the same items will be produced in different colours.”
The brand, she says, is to be called Kuhle - a Zulu phrase meaning “this is lovely” – and the brand website (www.kuhle.org.za) will soon be available for all to view.
Gooderson is also excited about the resort’s annual charity golf tournament, from December 7 to 10. The Bergview Primary School Community Project and SA Disabled Golf will benefit from this fun event, more info about which is available by contacting Gooderson at 082 886 8023 or e-mailing her at helenggoderson@netactive.co.za .
A variety of recreational activities is on offer at the resort. These include putt-putt, tennis, bowls, volleyball, badminton and, at the Glengarry Country Club on the premises overlooking Lake KwaNyoni, boating and trout fishing. There are also five great walks, all mapped and well signposted.
Peacocks roam the grounds which, flecked with giant oaks, pine trees, rose bushes in bloom and neatly manicured hedges, allow bird fanciers to discover more than 100 different species of feathered friend – from pied kingfisher, grass owl and black eagle and African pipit.
Or perhaps, to unwind, you’d prefer to simply sit back and sample cocktails or enjoy a game of pool in one of the resort’s four pubs? The Eagles Roost restaurant provides delicious meals, buffet style (the breakfast muffins are particularly more -ish), and incorporates a welcoming fireplace for colder nights. Then there is the Bistro, which caters for lighter meals and leads out onto a terrace with spectacular mountain views. To keep the children entertained there is a games room with pool and arcade games, a large trampoline in the gardens and also a play park alongside a small animal farm that features rabbits, ducks, chickens and aviaries. However my 13 - year - old preferred to spend most of his time there skimming stones in the gurgling river, where horse riders trotted past, giving a friendly wave. Kids can enjoy free pony rides twice daily and there are also daily entertainment activities for which there is no charge.
Lots to do!