The Heart of Netherwood Farm – Food, Family & Community

Netherwood Farm, Nottingham Road has always been far more than a working cattle farm. Many exciting developments and renovations are now complete, and the farm is poised for a great year of events, from exhibitions at the Bull Ring, to farm-to-table experiences. There will be an expanded calendar of community-focused activities with cosy accommodation available onsite. Under the stewardship of Dr Rob Kleinloog, a former cardiothoracic surgeon, the farm has become a unique fusion of...

A Chocolate-Filled Easter

If you’re tired of the same store-bought Easter eggs and want to get a little creative this year, here is an easy recipe to make your own bespoke Easter eggs. While this is a simple recipe to get started, the possibilities are endless to make it even more delicious. You can fill the eggs with a chocolate mousse, ganache, peanut butter, nuts, or any sweet treat of your desire. Or, if you like it the...

Fort Nottingham at 170 years – A Living Landmark

Along a quiet stretch of the R103, Fort Nottingham remains among the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands’ most enduring historical sites. This year marks 170 years since the fort’s establishment in 1856, offering a timely opportunity to reflect on its origins and what exists here today, a small yet active heritage site that continues to be shaped by the local community. David Fox’s Book & Local History The story of the fort is carefully documented in The History...

Midlands Fable

Discover a world of exploration with Beth Kelly. The Beginning Fable started as a small café idea I had that followed me everywhere I went. It was my “one day I will…” project. In 2016, my now husband, James, encouraged me to just start. The old farm sheds seemed like the perfect place. A lot bigger than I had planned, but it just felt like home. The Inspiration I have been very much inspired by...

The Art of The Dress

Inside the studios of three local couture designers shaping the bridal landscape with craft, creativity, and heart. Our region has long been a place where creativity, meticulous craftsmanship, and attention to detail flourish. In wedding couture, that ethos becomes deeply personal. Designers pour countless hours of artistry and intuition into garments that carry extraordinary emotional weight. A wedding gown is more than fabric and fit – it is memory, identity, celebration, and story. For this...

Living the Legacy

We spoke to people across different schools and generations to understand what keeps educational traditions alive. In the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, schools shape more than academics; they create shared memories, enduring relationships, and a lasting sense of belonging. For many families, these schools are woven into their history, with generations returning because the schools are part of their identity and family life. Some can trace three generations through the same classrooms. Others move back to their...

Brahman Hills

Turn Your Wedding Celebration Into A Destination Escape  Brahman Hills in Nottingham Road is a one-of-a-kind experience. It attracts not only locals but also visitors from far and wide to indulge in and replenish themselves with all it has to offer. However, it’s got that special something that has made it a top choice for bridal couples. It’s one of the most sought-after wedding venues in the KwaZulu-Natal, Midlands. This comes as no surprise because...

Our Christmas Haul

Here are a few gift ideas straight from the Fabmags team – enjoy our haul as we bring you the best of the countryside finds for this festive season. Lorinda Scott “If you’re looking for a gift that’s as unique as the person you’re giving it to, I recommend the Netherwood Blueberry Rum Liqueur from Blueberry Café. I find their gins and rums to be so unusual and cool.” @theblueberry_cafe Justin Scott “I guess you...

Merry Meals

We are pleased to share three hearty and fun Christmas recipes from renowned chef Jackie Cameron. Give these a try if you’re out of ideas or need some inspiration. Here’s to merriment and joy for this festive season! Stoney Ginger Beer, Fresh Peach & Cherry Glazed Dargle Christmas Ham Ingredients: 2kg “Dargle Valley Meat” – Gammon Ham (Bone-out) For the Glaze: 150g butter, salted 300g treacle brown sugar 90ml Dijon mustard 3 cups Stoney Ginger...

Thick with Tradition

I recently saw a post on Instagram where a South African food influencer spoke about a brand making real Greek yoghurt. Not “Greek-style,” or “double cream”, but yoghurt made the traditional way – strained, thick, and packed with protein. Naturally, I was curious. And hungry. I learned that most yoghurts on local supermarket shelves labelled “Greek style” are, in fact, not Greek at all – or at least not in method. They’re typically thickened using...