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eThekwini Municipality Launches GO!Durban Cycle Academy in partnership with Kargo PRO Cycling Team

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In an unprecedented move to support the growing need for increased mobility, connectivity and dignity for all citizens in the metropole, the eThekwini Municipality, today (February 11), launched the GO!Durban Cycle Academy in a public-private partnership with the Kargo PRO Cycling Team with support from the City’s Durban Green Corridor.

The inaugural intake of young cyclists from the eNanda area, where the first site for the Academy at eNanda Adventure Park is being developed, were introduced as well as the 2016 Kargo PRO Cycling Team: its riders, coaches, mentors and managers who have designed and will implement the Academy’s development strategy and operational programme to be used as the template for 7 other sites around the city.

The GO!Durban Cycle Academy provides an environment for local cycling training which also aims to bring young people together to meet, play and engage with each other using the sport of cycling as the common focus, whether it be for recreational, commuting or sporting purposes.

Importantly the Academy, which will focus on individual growth, is linked as an official feeder for professional cycling teams like the Kargo PRO Cycling Team, and provides a developmental opportunity for potential cycling talent.

The programme planned for Academy members will include requisite athletic training, but will also include important life skills-, mechanical- and technical training. The recruits will be required to sign a pledge to commit to the programme, adhere to a code of conduct, and will be expected to set a good example for their peers. Training will take place after school, and the young athletes will be required to complete their homework at the Academy site, as well as ensure their equipment and cycling kit is clean and maintained at all times.

The Durban Green Corridor has identified locations that have potential as Academy sites, and eight are confirmed in KwaMashu, KwaDabeka, eNanda, Cornubia, South Beach, Glenwood, Umlazi and Amanzimtoti.

In partnering with the Durban Green Corridor, GO!Durban is able to reach into local communities throughout eThekwini in a practical and sustainable way to promote recreational and commuter cycling for a healthy lifestyle and to reduce the transport related carbon footprint of the eThekwini population. The Durban Green Corridor is mandated to develop outdoor adventure sports and related tourism through natural open spaces in order to promote local economic development and job creation in the neighbouring communities, and as such makes a natural partner to develop cycle parks to support the development programme of the Academy, as well as providing safe spaces for citizens to learn to ride.

Put in context, the GO!Durban Cycle Academy forms the foundation for the creation of a robust cycling culture, as the City forges ahead with its planned GO!Durban integrated rapid public transport network. Intrinsically linked to this is the provision of walkways, pedestrian bridges and cycling lanes primarily as a means to provide access to public transport, but also to make provision for those, who, through circumstance, were unable to afford it.

The 2016 Kargo PRO Cycling Team at the GO!Durban Cycle Academy launch that took place at the Gateway on 11 February. The Kargo PRO Cycling Team and coaches will mentor and coach the Academy cyclists.

The 2016 Kargo PRO Cycling Team at the GO!Durban Cycle Academy launch that took place at the Gateway on 11 February. The Kargo PRO Cycling Team and coaches will mentor and coach the Academy cyclists.

It was out of this that the Non-Motorised Transport  (NMT) network plan was born, and the City’s engineers have an extensive plan to create cycle lanes and walkways throughout the urban and peri-urban sectors of the city as part of the overall public transport plan.

In 2014, as part of a plan to promote the NMT network at the Sustainable Living Expo, GO!Durban created a Believe Tree – a tree made from old bicycle parts, asking visitors to the expo to write their hopes and wishes for the future of the City, on a paper leaf and hang it on this tree. GO!Durban promised to plant a tree for every wish hung, to offset for the negative impact that infrastructure may have on the environment such as the tons of concrete and asphalt laid, or the need to remove trees to make way for roads. More than 2000 leaves “wishes” were hung, with most expressing a desire for safer, greener, more sustainable and liveable City.

On the back of these wishes, a Ride for Life concept arose which would lead to the creation of cycle parks, in which these trees could be planted, fulfilling the promise GO!Durban had made, and at the same time providing citizens with the space and opportunity to cycle and learn to cycle.

From this foundation and thinking arose the GO!Durban  Cycle Academy. “To this end a number of green environments will be re-configured for the homing of Academy facilities and riders, to fulfill that original promise and to fully realize the goal that the City takes sustainability, and importantly, takes the creation of a better life for all very seriously.”  said the Speaker Cllr Logie Naidoo speaking on behalf of His Worship the Mayor Cllr James Nxumalo.

“One of the important cogs towards building a successful Non Motorised Network, is having it adopted and used.  As we do not have a rigorous culture of cycling, the GO!Durban Cycle Academy development programme speaks directly to addressing this obvious gap. And that is why through our Ride for Life programme, eight such spaces are being created to home the Cycle Academy in a variety of communities to encourage people to cycle.”

“These pioneering young Academy cyclists herald a bright future for others that will come after them. As they are mentored, coached and nurtured with dignity and respect, they will learn skills that will hold them in great stead for their adulthoods.

But it is not only this. As with the ethos of GO!Durban, which aims to bring dignity and connectivity to all through mobility, the Academy also aims to provide connectivity for young people by linking them with a professional cycling team so that they are able to cross the historical barriers of the past, and have access to a world and environment that would ordinarily have been inaccessible.”

“If we are indeed to be Africa’s most caring and liveable city by 2030, we need to ensure that there is improved mobility for all, and that transport is an integral part of the economic and social functioning that will move us all forward socially and economically. This is what GO!Durban seeks to address.”

“As other cities around the world have experienced, the growth of a cycling culture impacts positively on communities as not only does it provide an affordable means of commuting, but it promotes a healthy lifestyle and contributes towards creating a more sustainable city.”

“From an empowerment point of view, it is hoped that the Academy will create employment opportunities as well as stimulate entrepreneurial economic growth within the areas where they are established, as people recognize the need for repair shops, eateries, training schools and attendant services related to cycling both from a commuter and recreational perspective.”

“The GO!Durban Academy promises to create an environment for entrepreneurship and the stimulation for small business growth. We urge the eNanda community to get involved, and not to watch from the sidelines. Look at this as an opportunity to develop a vibrant economic and socially satisfying node. At the same time, we encourage other communities where sites are planned to think how they can get involved.”

“We hope to, through this partnership, inspire young people to focus on achievable goals in their life, as we develop their self-confidence through sport, and in doing so develop in them a mind-set of success.” says Shaun Peschl, Manager of the Kargo PRO Cycling Team. “We believe that it is through development programmes such as this, that we can truly level the playing fields for those who have had many barriers to entry into the sport. The success of the partnership will be evident in how the children fare at school, at home and on the track as they develop their skills as young athletes. And we look forward to witnessing the entrepreneurial economic knock-on effect that these Academy sites will stimulate as the culture of cycling catches on.”

Speaker of the eThekwini Municipality, Cllr Logie Naidoo and William Newman President of Cycling South Africa, eNanda Adventure Park manager Nhlanhla Sibiya and Shaun Peschl owner/manager of the Kargo team with the Kargo PRO Cycling Team welcome the eNanda Cyclists into the GO!Durban Cycle Academy.

Speaker of the eThekwini Municipality, Cllr Logie Naidoo and William Newman President of Cycling South Africa, eNanda Adventure Park manager Nhlanhla Sibiya and Shaun Peschl owner/manager of the Kargo team with the Kargo PRO Cycling Team welcome the eNanda Cyclists into the GO!Durban Cycle Academy.

 

The Kargo PRO Cycling Team, as the inaugural partners in developing the GO!Durban Cycle Academy template and programme, have been gathering other partners and sponsors into the fold that will provide transport, nutritional and mechanical support, hardware and kit to help sustain the Academy.

The Mayor called on the private sector to “seize the opportunity to get on board now to be part of what promises to be a phenomenal social legacy, a potentially lucrative economic springboard for entrepreneurs, as well as new markets for formal business that will benefit in the long term from a developed culture of cycling in the city.”

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Art

SAVE THE DATE for the 2025 East Coast Radio House & Garden Show

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Pull out your diaries and a Big Red Pen.
East Coast Radio House & Garden Show 2025 is coming to town!

From the 28 June to 6 July 2025

fresh spaces. bright living – that’s the dynamic theme of this year’s East Coast Radio House + Garden Show. It’s the time and place to focus on our spaces and surrounds, and the endless opportunities for renewal and fresh energy. Come look at your home through fresh eyes! fresh spaces. bright living is designed to colour your world bright, set fire to your imagination, and equip you with all the tricks and tools to transform a tame house into a truly terrific one! The Show takes place at the Durban Exhibition Centre from 28 June to 6 July. It’s right here where you’ll uncover the very latest décor trends, innovative products, quick fixes and slow burns. Whether you’re up for a simple refresh or a major makeover, the East Coast Radio House + Garden Show 2025 has got you covered.

Happily for everyone, the Show will feature your absolute favourites… alongside some exciting newcomers! The Show Team is finalising fresh, fabulous Show elements, so to tantalise you… think super-legendary competitions with monumental prizes; foodies uniting in the kitchen over big brand names, and maybe a few famous faces; outdoor adventure products and activities climbing to new heights; and so, so much more marvellous kiddies’ entertainment than before.  The East Coast Radio House + Garden Show is designed for families… just wait until the kids see what’s in store for them!

Eating in and dining out is a silver thread which runs through the Show, and this year promises some BIG foodie names… and equally, some famous little firecracker ones. And remember, as we get closer to Showtime, ticket specials will pop up here and there, so keep a sharp lookout for those great offers.

fresh spaces. bright living introduces a new energy to the Show, an irresistible one which will have you rethinking what makes a house your kind of home. The Show is the perfect blend of creativity and enjoyment, with wonderfully curated experiences for every member of the family. This is Durban’s longed-for house and garden hub under one roof, where you’ll discover dynamic new products and concepts, connect and converse with the country’s experts, and gather everything possible to create and enjoy fresh spaces and bright living. Pull out that diary!

Mark your calendars: The East Coast Radio House + Garden Show 2025 runs from 28 June to 6 July at the Durban Exhibition Centre.
For more information and updates, visit www.housegardenshow.co.za

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Attractions

On The Lawn music festival with Matthew Mole, Hollow Coves (AUS) and Amistat (AUS) comes to Durban for Valentine’s Weekend!

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Celebrate love, music, and connection this Valentine’s weekend with the highly anticipated On The Lawn Music Festival! Whether you’re planning a romantic day out with your special someone or simply looking to enjoy world-class music with loved ones, this festival promises an unforgettable experience at the beautiful Durban Botanic Gardens.

Taking to the stage is South Africa’s beloved singer-songwriter Matthew Mole, whose infectious energy and heartfelt lyrics have captured the hearts of fans nationwide. Known for hits like Take Yours, I’ll Take Mine and Run, Matthew Mole is a chart-topping sensation who blends folk, pop, and electronic sounds to create a unique musical experience. His ability to connect with audiences, whether through soulful ballads or upbeat anthems, has made him a household name and a festival favourite.

Joining him on stage are the internationally acclaimed indie-folk duo Hollow Coves from Australia and the talented twin brothers of Amistat, bringing their soulful sounds and inspiring messages to South African shores. There are more announcements to be made, so keep an eye on socials!

Globally celebrated indie-folk duo Hollow Coves bring their organic, acoustic-driven sound to South Africa as part of their Nothing to Lose Tour. The tour supports their critically acclaimed album Nothing to Lose, produced by Matt Corby and released via Nettwerk Music Group. Hailing from the Gold Coast, Matt Carins and Ryan Henderson craft music that celebrates life, nature, and human connection. Their introspective lyricism and serene melodies have garnered over half a billion streams worldwide and widespread acclaim from outlets like Billboard and Clash. From their debut EP Wanderlust to their certified Gold hit Coastline, Hollow Coves has become synonymous with soulful indie-folk anthems.

Prepare to be mesmerized by their ethereal harmonies and uplifting message as they perform in the lush surroundings of the Durban Botanic Gardens—a perfect setting for their serene and inspiring music.

Amistat. Twin brothers Josef and Jan Prasil, better known as Amistat, channel the heartfelt storytelling of Simon & Garfunkel with modern influences from Ben Howard and Kings of Convenience. Known for their seamless harmonies and emotional depth, Amistat’s music offers a unique connection that resonates with audiences worldwide. Their brand-new single, Loveblood, a collaboration with South African favourite Jeremy Loops, showcases their ability to blend raw emotion with dynamic soundscapes. Grab the chance to witness this extraordinary duo as they captivate the crowd with songs that inspire love, hope, and togetherness.

Don’t miss the opportunity to celebrate Valentine’s weekend in the most magical way—surrounded by music, nature, and loved ones.

For more information and to secure your tickets, visit onthelawn.co.za.

—–

Date: Saturday 15th February 2025
Venue: On The Lawn, uMphafa Field, Durban Botanic Gardens
Address: 9A John Zikhali Road, Berea, Durban 4001
Line up: Matthew Mole, Hollow Coves, Amistat and more to be announced

Times: 11:00 – 18:00

Ticket prices:
Early Bird: R295 excl R30 Fee
Phase 1: R345 excl R35 Fee
Phase 2: R395 excl R35 Fee

Children aged 5 and under enter FREE.
Food is welcome (no own drinks permitted).
Food vendors and bars will be available on-site.
Camping chairs and small umbrellas are allowed (no gazebos).

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Attractions

Let’s Rock – Concert in the Park on Valentine’s Weekend

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Breakout Events is counting down the days as Let’s Rock, the UK’s most iconic 80s music festival, is making its highly anticipated debut in South Africa in just a few days! Known for its stellar lineups and incredible 80s nostalgia, Let’s Rock is bringing two unforgettable events to Johannesburg and Durban, featuring a mix of international legends and local icons from Thompson Twins’ Tom Bailey, Midge Ure (Ultravox/Visage), PJ Powers, Just Jinjer and many more.

Event Dates:
● Let’s Rock Johannesburg – Saturday, 15 February 2025 at Marks Park, Emmarentia
● Let’s Rock Durban – Sunday, 16 February 2025 at Durban Botanic Gardens

Tickets are on sale here.
Get ready to experience a full day of music that will take you back to the best of the 80s and beyond!

Known for leading the charge since 2009 in 80’s music festivals, Let’s Rock is renowned for its fun, family- friendly atmosphere, offering something for every generation to enjoy.
Headlining both shows are 80s music icons, Thompson Twins’ Tom Bailey and Midge Ure (Ultravox/Visage), who will perform their timeless hits that shaped a generation. These legendary
performers are set to bring the true essence of the 80s experience straight from the UK to South Africa’s
stages!

Thompson Twins’ Tom Bailey

For nearly three decades fans of the Thompson Twins have waited for more live performances from one of the most iconic bands of the eighties. Now The Thompson Twins’ vocalist Tom Bailey, with a new band, is touring and performing the big Thompson Twins hits and more. The Thompson Twins had huge hits on both sides of the Atlantic. Songs such as ‘Hold Me Now’, ‘Doctor Doctor’, ‘You Take Me Up’ and ‘Love On Your Side’ provided the soundtrack for so many people’s lives worldwide in the mid-eighties. In 1985 The Thompson Twins played ‘Hold Me Now’ at Live Aid in Philadelphia and also performed the Beatles‘Revolution’ with Madonna and Nile Rogers. The Thompson Twins’ Tom Bailey features Tom Bailey on vocals, keyboards, guitar, harmonica, and percussion. His all-female band features Charlotte Raven on vocals and keyboards, Vicky Warwick on bass, vocals and keyboards, and Paulina Szczepaniak on electronic drums.

Midge Ure

Multiple award-winning, platinum-selling Midge Ure is an artist who needs very little introduction. Musical success is seldom measured in periods of more than a few years, if not Andy Warhol’s often quoted “fifteen minutes”, so the fact that by the time Midge’s single “If I Was” went to the No 1 spot in 1985 he had already crammed several musical lifetimes into a 10-year professional career with bands like Thin Lizzy, Visage, the legendary Ultravox and of course the most famous one-off group in musical history Band Aid, writing and producing one of the world’s most recognised songs ever with “Do they know it’s Christmas.”

Local Legends:
South Africa’s own music heroes will also be lighting up the Let’s Rock stages, including:

● Steve Louw’s Big Sky (Joburg show only)
● Just Jinjer
● PJ Powers
● Cindy Alter (from Clout)
● John Ellis (from Tree63)
● James Stewart (from The Usual)
● Brent Harris and Thee Jam

This epic lineup ensures an electric celebration of music from the past and present, making Let’s Rock the ultimate party you won’t want to miss.

Don’t miss out on the chance to relive the magic of the 80s and 90s with unforgettable performances, great vibes, and incredible artists. Grab your tickets and get ready for an exciting trip down memory lane!

Date: Sunday 16 February 2025
Time: 13h00 – 19h00
Venue: Durban Botanic Gardens
Address: Umphafa Field, 9A John Zikhali Road, Berea, Durban, 4001
Line-up: Thompson Twins’ Tom Bailey, Midge Ure, Just Jinjer, PJ Powers, Cindy Alter (Clout), John Ellis (Tree63), James Stewart (The Usual), Brent Harris and Thee Jam
All Ages. Children under 5yrs old enter for free.

Tickets:

General Admission (Ages 5 – 17 yrs): R195 (excluding ticket

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