Mabalingwe Newsletter June 2025

Sightings Resort Upgrades Special Moments Staff Spotlight Awards Notices

The bushveld has been full of life, and so has Mabalingwe. From exciting upgrades around the Reserve to unforgettable moments shared by our guests and Team, the past six months have brought growth, progress, and plenty to celebrate. Our passionate staff has been working hard to make every experience even more special.

So go ahead and pour yourself a cup of coffee, sit back, and enjoy the latest news from your favourite getaway destination. In this edition, we share the highlights of recent refurbishments, introduce you to some of the shining stars on our Team, and reflect on the moments and memories that make Mabalingwe the place we all love. There is plenty of excitement ahead, and we are so glad to have you with us on this journey.

As the cool autumn and winter months settle in at Mabalingwe, the landscape transforms, bringing new opportunities for guests to witness the wild in a whole new light. The crisp air and golden hues of the season make for perfect wildlife viewing, with sightings of majestic animals like elephants and buffaloes roaming gracefully through the changing terrain.

We’d love to see your wildlife encounters! Share your favourite moments with us on social media and tag us on Facebook and Instagram for a chance to be featured.

At Mabalingwe, we’re always focused on maintaining and improving your home-away-from-home. Over the past few months, we’ve dedicated ourselves to making thoughtful upgrades and addressing key areas to elevate the guest experience. Here’s a look at what’s been happening and what’s to come:

RESORT RENOVATIONS & UPGRADES

Sewage System

The compound’s sewage dump has been successfully rebuilt, ensuring better drainage and overflow prevention.

Signage & Indemnity Boards

Damaged boards have been replaced to maintain clarity and safety throughout the Resort and Reserve.

Ingwe Swimming Pool

Upgrades include new gum poles, latte fencing, and treated railings for a fresh and secure finish.

Resort main storage facility, Egoli Warehouse Enhancements

Egoli’s main store now boasts electricity, lighting, and Wi-Fi for improved operations.

Security Improvements

A variety of security improvements have been made across the Reserve to ensure the safety of our valued guests and staff.

Pathway Lighting

Lights were repainted for enhanced durability and a neater look.

Waste Water Treatment Plant, Maintenance and Servicing

All Resort wastewater treatment plants are inspected daily, and maintenance schedules in place for the general upkeep and operation of the network system.

Wildlife Spotting Board

Relocated to the game drive area, allowing rangers to regularly update animal sightings for guests.

Completion of the Padel Court

The Resort is glad to say the Padel court construction has been completed and is operational. For lots of family fun, please book your slot on the Playtomic app to secure your spot. Watch our Facebook page for upcoming Padel events.

Bush Clearing

With nearly 1000mm of rainfall this season, we’ve jumped into action with extensive bush clearing across several key areas to keep Mabalingwe looking its best. From the Buffalo Waterhole and entertainment zones to the Resort entrances and staff compound, our Team is working hard to clear the way for better accessibility and a more enjoyable experience at places like Ingwe Camps, Kubu Pool, and the laundry facilities.

VELD MANAGEMENT INITIATIVES

Veld Management Initiatives have focused on enhancing infrastructure, safety, and environmental upkeep across key operational areas. Recent efforts included repainting and essential repairs at the Veld Management Office and Store, alongside critical security upgrades at the Workshop and Dumping Site, such as gate and fence repairs. The Mechanical Workshop saw notable improvements with the installation of new equipment, enhanced electrical systems, and routine vehicle servicing. Grounds maintenance remains ongoing, with continued weed control measures in place to preserve the landscape. Additionally, the Resort dumpsite underwent a controlled burn to responsibly manage the disposal of garden foliage, including branches and leaves.

CHALET RENOVATIONS & UPGRADES

Refurbished Ash Pans

Replacement of built-in braai ashpans, removal of rusted and damaged pans, and fitted with newly built ash pans, where required.

Chimney Closures

As a security and safety measure, all fireplaces are to be closed and made redundant. A notice was placed in each unit confirming the closure of all unit fireplaces. Fire screens have been fixed to the fireplace to ensure no fires can be made.

Deep Cleaning

Scheduled deep cleaning conducted in all units to ensure all units are cleaned according to Resort standards.

SANRAL Signage Upgraded

Road signage has been placed on the R516 leading to the Resort from Bela Bela and another when driving from Rooiberg, notifying guests of the Resort turn-off.

Replacement of old
Louvre Windows

The Resort has embarked on a project, replacing all louvre windows in units. The louvre windows are outdated, and the mechanical systems are irreparable. New windows fitted in the lounge and loft sections.

ONGOING AND UPCOMING PROJECTS

Restaurant Repainting

The repainting of the Restaurant exterior commenced end of 2024. The project remains ongoing, as not to disturb or paint whilst guests visit the Restaurant. Forecasted completion date, July 2025.

Scheduled Maintenance

Units allocated for scheduled maintenance. This includes repairs to kitchen cupboards and drawers, servicing of air-conditioning units, and inspection of plumbing and drainage networks.

Phiri Camp, Patios and Braais

Planned refurbishment of Phiri patios and braais to commence in June 2025. The refurbishment of patios includes the retiling of patio surfaces, repairs to patio columns and beams, and the replacement of all built-in braais.

At Mabalingwe, we’re always looking for ways to improve our operations and provide a seamless experience for both guests and staff. That’s why we’ve rolled out new systems across various departments to enhance efficiency and streamline our processes.

HotelTime is now helping us manage property and housekeeping with ease, while Vento and Radical are improving stock control across the Resort.

On the HR and payroll front, PaySpace and ERS are simplifying and automating our processes to ensure smooth operations and better service all around.

LENNY THE LEOPARD

Litter collection and awareness

We’re excited to introduce Lenny the Litter Collector to our Team, a fun and engaging initiative aimed at promoting a cleaner Resort and Reserve. With new signage in place, guests can easily find designated refuse areas for the proper disposal of litter, helping us all contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable environment.

FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS

At Mabalingwe, every day brings something worth celebrating. From birthdays and anniversaries to surprise proposals and quiet sunsets, we’ve been lucky to witness some truly beautiful moments. Take a look at the highlights that have made the past few months so memorable.

Christmas Day 2024

Christmas 2024 at Mabalingwe was filled with festive cheer and unforgettable moments. Le Fera set the tone with a vibrant Christmas event that brought guests together in true holiday spirit, complete with delicious food, entertainment, and plenty of laughter. The entire Resort embraced the allure of the season, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere for all who joined us.

New Years 2025

New Year’s Eve was an exciting evening at Vulture View, where guests gathered to welcome the year surrounded by the beauty of the bushveld. With stunning views, good company, and a relaxed atmosphere, it was the perfect setting to reflect, reconnect, and step into the new year with fresh energy and warm hearts.

Valentines Day 2025

Love was in the air this Valentine’s Day at Mabalingwe. Guests were welcomed with a refreshing drink and a beautiful protea, a small gesture to celebrate love in all its forms. Our Valentine’s photo frame added a fun touch, giving couples and families the perfect spot to capture their special moments in the heart of the bushveld.

Easter 2025

Easter at Mabalingwe was a joyful celebration filled with laughter, sunshine, and special moments for the whole family. Guests enjoyed a relaxing weekend in the bush with Easter-themed treats and fun surprises. From little ones on the lookout for hidden eggs to peaceful mornings surrounded by nature, it was a time of connection, reflection and plenty of smiles.

Blood Drive

In December 2024, Mabalingwe hosted a successful SANBS blood drive, bringing the community together for a cause that truly makes a difference. With a remarkable turnout, our guests and staff came together to give the gift of life, contributing to a vital cause and helping save lives. We are grateful for the generous participation and support in making this event a success.

Engagements

Love is always in the air, and this season, we had the privilege of helping several couples create unforgettable moments. Our Team worked closely with guests to arrange stunning proposals at Vulture’s View, offering breathtaking views and intimate settings. We also hosted a surprise proposal during our famous bush picnic, where nature provided the perfect backdrop for these heartfelt moments. It was an honour to be part of these beautiful celebrations of love.

Mother’s Day

Mabalingwe celebrated Mother’s Day in true style, treating all the special moms to a memorable experience. Guests were gifted beautifully scented candles as a token of appreciation, adding a personal touch to the day. Le Fera Restaurant hosted a delightful Mother’s Day Buffet, offering a warm atmosphere and delicious spread that made the occasion truly unforgettable.

We are excited to share that our brand new Mabalingwe website is now live!

It is easier to use, full of helpful information, and designed to give you a better online experience.
You can now check availability and book your stay directly on the website with just a few simple steps. No need to call or email, everything you need is just a click away.

Start planning your next getaway today.

Introducing Our New Booking Agent – MyResorts
We are pleased to introduce our new rental booking agent, MyResorts. This hospitality brand offers a carefully selected collection of resorts and holiday escapes, making it easy for guests to find and book memorable getaways. In addition, MyResorts uses smart technology to manage bookings, including those for private owners, with a focus on boosting occupancy and maximising revenue.

Explore all MyResorts benefits

Website

Managing Your Ownership Just Got Easier!
We’re excited to introduce new self-service features now available on Holiday Options:

View your ownership and occupation dates
Access financial info and statements
Make secure levy payments online
Deposit your ownership with ease

New Rental Flexibility: You can now place your ownership on rental per night, on the resort’s website.

Get Started: Register online today and take control of your ownership, anytime, anywhere.

LOGIN NOW!

We are excited to announce that Mabalingwe has been nominated for several prestigious RCI Awards! We’ve been recognised for our exceptional service with nominations for

Top Housekeeping, Top Check-In & Check-Out Experience, and Top Unit Maintenance.

Additionally, we’re thrilled to be a finalist for the coveted Top Gold Crown Resort of the Year.

This is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our Team, and we couldn’t be more grateful!

It is with great excitement that we announce Mabalingwe has been awarded the prestigious Service Excellence Award for 2024 by iExchange. This accolade is a testament to our Team’s dedication to providing outstanding service and creating lasting memories for every guest.

We’re also excited to share that Mabalingwe has been named a finalist in the Large Resorts category for the 2024 Great Awards by GuestRevu. This recognition highlights our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for our guests, and we are honoured to be part of such a prestigious group.

WELCOME TO THE MABALINGWE FAMILY!

Our staff members go above and beyond, and here are some shoutouts from you,
our valued guests. Thank you for recognising their dedication and helping us
create memorable experiences for everyone!

Reception was courteous and welcoming. - NE Mosholi

Elizabeth was friendly, helpful, and courteous. – Trevor Meyer

Smiley and Modise are truly a major asset to Mabalingwe. – J Walker

Loryn is the friendliest and most helpful hospitality worker I've met. – Annerie Dinkelmann

All staff—from reception to cleaning—were fantastic! – R Freeman

And many more!
We deeply appreciate your kind words.

Rainfall

The Resort has experienced a significant amount of rainfall this season, bringing both benefits and challenges. While the heavy rains have supported healthy grazing veld, they’ve also caused some flooding along certain roads within the Reserve. Our Team is actively working on bush clearing and grass cutting along the roads, alongside ongoing maintenance to ensure that all Resort and Reserve roads remain accessible and in good condition.

Eco Initiatives

Sustainability is a key focus at Mabalingwe, and we’re excited to share our ongoing efforts to protect our beautiful environment. Through the Eco-Cubs program, children can engage with nature and learn about the animals and veld around them, while the Lenny Litter Control initiative raises awareness and works towards reducing litter throughout the Resort and Reserve.

Archery & Air Rifle Shooting

Unleash your inner marksman with a fun-filled archery and air rifle shooting experience. Suitable for all skill levels, this activity promises excitement and a little friendly competition.

Check the schedule at Reception for availability.

Padel

Get ready for fast-paced excitement on our brand-new padel court, perfect for players of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re rallying with the kids or challenging your partner to a friendly match, padel is the ultimate way to add fun and energy to your family getaway. Book your padel session and hire your gear hassle-free on the Playtomic app.
Fast, easy, and all set for fun!
GO TO THE
PLAYTONIC APP

Game Drives

The bushveld comes alive at Mabalingwe. Whether you are tracking the Big Five, admiring the graceful plains zebra, or catching a glimpse of a rare nocturnal creature, every game drive offers a unique and unforgettable safari experience.

Day & Night Drives Available

Plaaswinkel / Farmshop

Whether you're looking for groceries, sweet treats, or unique souvenirs, our charming shop has something for everyone.
With new games, gifts toys, it's the perfect spot to stock up.

Boeretroos

Treat yourself with freshly brewed coffee, mouthwatering waffles, and a variety of light snacks and refreshments.
Don't miss our daily specials on cakes, ice cream, and more!

Mbali Day Spa

Indulge in pure relaxation with our luxurious treatments. Whether it’s a soothing massage, a rejuvenating facial, or a pampering mani-pedi, we’ve got the perfect way to help you unwind.

at Mabalingwe

Looking to make your special occasion truly unforgettable? Whether it's a birthday, anniversary, or any milestone worth celebrating, let our dedicated Mabalingwe Team handle every detail to ensure your event is perfect.
Contact us on 014 001 7011 or contactus@mabalingwe.com today to start planning your dream celebration!

June 15 – Father’s Day

June 16 – Youth Day

August 9 – Women’s Day

September 4 – Heritage Day

December 25-26 – Christmas Weekend

January 1 – New Year’s Day

School Holidays

June 27 – July 22

October 3 – October 13

December 10 – January 14

At Mabalingwe, ensuring our guests’ happiness is at the heart of everything we do, and we’re excited to see our hard work making a positive impact. A big thank you to all our guests and cherished Shareholders for your kind feedback and ongoing support.

A weekend to remember! We saw all of the Big 5. – Nicola McLeod

Spotless room, warm welcome, and the predator park was a blast! – Luke Pfister

We come back again and again. The animals even came to our doorstep!
– Hesitant Adventurer

34 years of unforgettable memories!
– J Walker

Thank you for sharing your stories and feedback, it inspires us to keep improving.

Want to share your Mabalingwe moment?

Send your stories or photos to contactus@mabalingwe.com and you could be featured in the next edition.

TENDER WEEKS AVAILABLE!
Contact the VRS Property Admin team for more information.
propertyadmin@vrs.co.za

Book Your Stay through MyResorts
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Important Notices

Resort Calendar
2025