SWEET TASTE OF NATURE’S BOUNTY

On Wednesday 11 September 22 Ambers residents traveled to Freelands Farm along the Dargle Road where they were greeted very warmly by Gillian Milne and her staff. Many of you will remember Gillian from Karkloof Farmers’ Market where she used to sell her homegrown vegetables on a Saturday morning. Now Gillian, and her husband, Bruce, operate Country Bounty from Freelands Farm.

SOME UNUSUAL BIRDS RECORDED ON THE ESTATE

A number of unusual birds have been recorded in the first seven months of 2024. In the middle of July a male Narina Trogon was reported by a non-birder near the “Man Cave” in Amber Lee. The following morning Crystelle Wilson investigated and was able to get some lovely photos of the bird. This was only the fourth record for the Ambers although it is not uncommon along the uMngeni River.

FREEME BOASTS WORLD-CLASS FACILITY

FreeMe Wildlife has achieved another first for wildlife rehabilitation in South Africa. With the completion of the wildlife aerodrome, FreeMe Wildlife now boasts the first of its kind continuous flight tunnel for the rehabilitation of birds in Africa. It is also the largest tunnel of its kind in the world.

MANY EYES MAKE LIGHT WORK OF GAME COUNT

The Greater Ambers Natural Resources Club has organised nine annual Game
Counts for the management of Amber Valley since 2016. The 2024 count took place in pleasant conditions on Wednesday 12 June. Of the 115 people who participated in the count, most were members of the club, but anyone interested in participating was welcome to do so.

The count was followed by the traditional “bring & braai” at the Lakes where the preliminary results were announced. The convivial atmosphere bore testimony to the fact that people enjoyed themselves.