Popped into the Shongweni Club lately? If not, you’re in for a surprise: this wonderful old venue has been given a makeover, thanks to Anton and Heather Mostert.
Anton, well known Hillcrest property developer, and his wife Heather (formerly Hamilton) have taken over the reins of the club and the transformation is phenomenal. The formerly tatty and tired club is suddenly stylish and welcoming, its facilities vastly upgraded and its restaurant and kitchen radically improved.
Says chairman Anton: “Our aim was – and is – to create a sporting hub in the Highway area that subscribes to good values, healthy living and an appreciation of the outdoors.”
The Shongweni Club was founded in the 1960s and has a fascinating history, but over the past few years it has changed considerably. In an era of ever-declining sport and recreation venues, the club, which has traditionally been regarded as one of the best equestrian facilities in the country, saw membership decline and the venue itself assume a slightly grubby appearance, with questionable service standards.
Sports hub reborn
With the Mostert takeover, that’s all changed: apart from its spruced up and extended clubhouse, it has also arranged reciprocity agreements with various other clubs in the Highway area, creating a sporting hub where families can spend quality time together in the outdoors while enjoying (spectating or participating in) the various sports on offer.
By welcoming the Hillcrest Villagers Rugby Club, the Shongweni Model Flying Club, single-track cycling and the Assagay Arrows (trail running and mountain biking) into its fold, a true sporting destination has been born.
“We want to create a venue that is healthy, safe and very child-friendly,” says Heather. “Sport definitely brings people together, and I want my children to enjoy the same sporting and wholesome upbringing I enjoyed. That won’t be possible if we let clubs like this die.”
Top-flight facilities
Safety is critical and the DSC is proud to be hosting the SAPS dog unit and Mounted Horse Unit on the grounds. Not only will it improve safety for members but it will also have a huge impact on the community as a whole, as an increased police presence and effective response times are critical if we want to tackle crime head on.
The Durban Shongweni Club remains a top equestrian venue and is investing in infrastructure, time and energy in this direction. Through the support of sponsors, the club has built a world class fibre show jumping arena and practice arena, and has set its sights on hosting a show jumping World Cup qualifier this year. That’s in addition to the Shongweni show jumping derby, the BMW International Polo Series, a dressage extravaganza and many more exciting events that draw competitors from around the country to our leafy suburb.
Family focus
Everyone is welcome, not only members. The clubhouse is being upgraded and the restaurant is under the excellent leadership of Bev Jaber, who ran the much loved Woodrose Coffee Shop at Heritage Market for many years.
“We’ve created an environment where we could share our passion with the community in a way that fosters quality family time,” adds Anton. “No Playstations or DVDs – just wholesome food, plenty of sport to watch (or get involved in), a safe play area for the kids with jungle gyms, a bright red tractor, sandpits and pony rides.”
Add it to your list of places to go this weekend!
Call 031 768 1251 or visit shongweniclub.co.za
2 Comments
A phone number in the local Durban directory would be invaluable.
No precise indicator of your location on Google maps and your phone is not being answered, despite the call being made during office hours???