Events

Roar for the cause at Sisters with Blisters 2016

Published

10 years ago

5 October 2016

Durbanite

For the first time in Durban, East Coast Radio and 1st for Women have teamed up to host the Sisters with Blisters protest walk against gender based violence. The walk takes place at Chris Saunders Park, Centenary Blvd, Umhlanga. Let’s walk as one and make our collective voices heard. There is strength in numbers and with that strength comes power – the power to make a difference.

South Africa has one of the highest rates of violence against women in the world and the Department of Justice estimates that 1 out of every 4 South African women are survivors of domestic violence.

In 2014/2015, it was estimated that 563 841 sexual offences occurred but only 62 649 sexual offences were reported. 8 174 of these sexual offences cases went to court, and only 1% of the perpetrators got jail time for their horrendous crimes.

Violence against women is a social tragedy. It transcends political, religious and economic boundaries and it has detrimental consequences for our nation at large. Besides the far-reaching psychological effects of abuse, it costs South Africa between R28.4 billion and R42.4 billion per year.

“We still have a long way to go before gender-based violence is a subject that can be freely spoken about,” says East Coast Radio’s Marketing Manager, Renée Burton. “Through an event like Sisters with Blisters, East Coast Radio together with our partner First For Women see an invaluable opportunity to amplify awareness and make voices be heard. Through the diverse appeal of this event, we simultaneously shatter perceptions that gender-based violence only occurs in certain communities only. It could be your mother, sister, aunt, friend or colleague. It’s everyone’s problem and we will be bringing the issue to light at Chris Saunders Park on 20 November 2016.”

Every year, from 25 November to 10 December, the world turns its attention to the plight of abused women. Much is done during this brief time to raise awareness, expose this social tragedy and campaign for equality, but is it enough? A bruise can heal in 16 days but for the survivors of abuse, the veiled emotional scars last a lifetime.

“More can and must be done to highlight this injustice. Every case of a woman being abused is a case too many. Too many survivors continue to suffer in silence and it’s our joint responsibility to do whatever possible to change this,” says Casey Rousseau, spokesperson for 1st for Women Insurance and the 1st for Women Foundation which to date has raised R49 million to fight violence against women.

“This will be the largest peaceful protest of its kind – a chance for men, women, children to come together, walk as one and make our collective voices heard. There is strength in numbers and with that strength comes power – the power to make a difference,” says Rousseau.

Together, as a sisterhood, we need to start driving more meaningful change in the lives of victims and survivors of abuse and start putting the women of South Africa first.

This November, sisters, misters, kids and their four-legged friends, are invited to join 1st for Women Insurance and East Coast Radio for the largest peaceful protest of its kind – Sisters with Blisters 2016.

Entry is R80 for the 5km walk. The entry fee is R35 for pensioners and kids under 12. Enter online at
www.sisterswithblisters.co.za

Author: Durbanite

Events

FREE Family Day at Hollywoodbets Greyville

Published

2 weeks ago

9 April 2026

Carla Wynne

Champions Season Kicks Off in Style with a FREE Family Day at Hollywoodbets Greyville

The highly anticipated Champions Season bursts into action on Saturday, 11 April at Hollywoodbets Greyville, setting the tone for South Africa’s premier racing calendar with a vibrant day of top-class racing, entertainment, and family-friendly fun — all completely FREE to attend.

Gates open at 10:00am, inviting racegoers, families, and first-time visitors alike to experience the thrill of the sport in an accessible and festive environment.

At the heart of the day’s racing programme is the Race Coast Sales Big Cap, a R5 million feature that continues to grow in stature following its successful debut and is fast establishing itself as one of the most innovative contests in South African racing.

Run over 1400m, the Big Cap brings together an elite mix of top-class horses and influential slot holders, where strategy and strength play an equally decisive role. The 2025 debut delivered a high-quality and competitive spectacle, showcasing the tactical depth of the slot race concept and setting a strong benchmark for the future.

That foundation adds an extra layer of intrigue to the 2026 renewal, with connections returning more experienced and strategically aware. The contest features a compelling clash of power and depth, headlined by the highest-rated runner in the field, alongside formidable operations such as Snaith Racing. Key slot holders including the Wernars Family, Rikesh Sewgoolam, Ralphs Racing and Peter Moor add further competitiveness, underlining the race’s growing industry significance.

With a substantial stake on offer, R5 million in total, including R3 million to the winner, and increasing attention from across the sport, this is no ordinary race and continues to attract serious investment and participation.

Adding to the excitement is the Race Coast Sales Slipper, a standout juvenile contest run over 1200m with a lucrative R3 million incentive. Together, the Big Cap (R5 million) and Slipper (R3 million) offer a combined R8 million in feature race prize money on the day. Positioned at a key point in the season and staged in KwaZulu-Natal, the Slipper has become increasingly competitive, with top juveniles lining up to contest the rich prize.

The combination of timing, location, and significant stakes ensures that owners and trainers target the race early, aiming to secure a share of the substantial purse. With each running, the quality and depth of the field continues to improve, offering racing fans a glimpse of the next generation of stars.

Beyond the track, the day promises a lively social atmosphere with a mix of entertainment, activations, and relaxed outdoor enjoyment. Whether you’re a seasoned racing enthusiast or simply looking for a great day out in Durban, the opening event delivers something for everyone.

“Champions Season is about more than just elite racing — it’s about creating an inclusive, energetic experience that brings people together,” said Race Coast KZN Acting COO, Dean Sawarjith. “Starting the season with a free, open-to-all event at Hollywoodbets Greyville reflects that spirit perfectly.”

With warm autumn weather, world-class racing, and a welcoming environment, 11 April is set to be the perfect introduction to the excitement of Champions Season.

Author: Carla Wynne

Just a 30something plant mom, nature enthusiast and happy wife, adventuring through Durbs and life!🌻🌿🤍✨

Entertainment

Your Next Blu Blood Experience Awaits

Published

1 month ago

19 March 2026

Carla Wynne

Durban’s entertainment scene is turning up the heat over the next few months, with a line-up of live shows set to bring music, laughter and big-stage energy to the city. From internationally loved performers to homegrown comedic talent, local audiences can look forward to a vibrant mix of events across some of Durban’s popular venues.

Kicking things off is Atif Aslam, who takes to the stage at the Durban ICC on 27 March, bringing his much-loved hits to what promises to be a memorable night for fans. BUY TICKETS HERE

Comedy lovers can then get ready for an evening of sharp wit and relatable humour when Joey Rasdien performs at the iZulu Theatre at Sibaya Casino on 4 April. BUY TICKETS HERE

Rounding off the line-up is Zack Knight, set to perform at Suncoast Casino on 9 May, offering Durban audiences a chance to enjoy one of the most recognisable contemporary voices in the South Asian music space. BUY TICKETS HERE

With a mix of powerhouse music performances and laugh-out-loud comedy on the calendar, these upcoming shows are set to add plenty of excitement to Durban’s social scene. Whether you’re planning a night out with friends, a date night, or simply looking for your next live entertainment experience, this line-up offers something worth stepping out for.

Author: Carla Wynne

Just a 30something plant mom, nature enthusiast and happy wife, adventuring through Durbs and life!🌻🌿🤍✨

Art

BUMP & GRIND – Back By Popular Demand

Published

1 month ago

17 March 2026

Carla Wynne

Back by popular demand, Durban comedy favourites Aaron McIlroy and Lisa Bobbert-McIlroy return to the Northlands Bowling Club, in Durban North for audiences who missed the show the first time around.

Expect old favourite characters and a soundtrack packed with thumping hits as McIlroy and Bobbert once again deliver their trademark blend of side-splitting humour, larger-than-life personalities, and musical mayhem!

Some characters to expect; Bruce and Charmaine as unforgettable Elvis impersonators, Dot and Max settling into the chaos of retirement village life, and everyone’s favourite philosopher of the people, Dr Veejay, offering his “words of wisdom.” Add in a host of hilarious new faces, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a fun night out!

Directed and choreographed by the sensational Daisy Spencer, Bump and Grind promises to keep audiences on their feet — or rolling in the aisles — with laughter, music, and McIlroy & Bobbert’s unbeatable comic chemistry.

Venue: Northlands Bowling Club, Durban North
Dates: Friday 27 & Saturday 28 March – 7:30pm (doors open 6pm) | Sunday 29 March 2026 – 6:30pm (doors open 5pm)
Tickets: R220pp
Bookings: Webtickets – BOOK HERE

Whether you’re seeing it for the first time or coming back for more, this is a musical comedy experience not to be missed.

Other Info to Note: