DNA Newsletter
Dear Residents,
On behalf of the Dainfern Nature Association, it is with sadness that we share the news that one of our long-term Nature Committee members, André Marx has passed away.
André was one of the first members of the committee and gave over 20 years of his time to assist with what the DNA stands for:
André with his passion and knowledge, played a huge part to us succeeding in these goals. André led the Bird Walks in Dainfern, his knowledge was absolutely amazing. Just hearing a bird call he would stop the group and describe the species in detail, its features and way of life. He was unbelievably gifted. His excitement in seeing a bird that is rarely seen in Dainfern was contagious and all shared in his excitement
at that moment.
In 2022 André received one of Birdlife’s South Africa Owl Awards, which he never wanted praise for, but was so proud to receive. With over 40 years of experience, André was an incredible talented birder and he had time for everyone and especially novices. He got excited for those who were just starting out in bird watching!
However, Andre’s amazing knowledge extended beyond just birdlife, he was the sounding board to any decisions regarding the estates natural environment and assisted in creating new trails. He was always the person too, who measured and kept us updated on rainfall patterns.
André even presented at the DNA AGMS. One, which we will never forget, he described in detail the changing birdlife and animal life due to the environmental changes in Dainfern from the early days to current. He had everyone glued to the presentation and no-one left. He received a standing ovation, which one rarely gets at an AGM.
André was a humble gentleman. His passion for nature and his great knowledge thereof deserved to be honoured, which is why the Dainfern Nature Association have decided to name the DNA trophy the ANDRÉ MARX TROPHY.
The trophy, depicting a Paradise Flycatcher, is presented to any Dainfern Estate resident who has done something extraordinary for nature within the estate. It is on display in a glass cabinet at the entrance to the Clubhouse for all to see. There will also be a photo of André on display in the cabinet. His memory will live on in Dainfern forever.
A while back Olivia Denny, our landscaper, came up with the idea of creating another nature trail. André was very excited about her vision. They agreed to keep the new trail as natural as possible. This trail was coincidently called Bird Walk, but will now be renamed to André Marx’s Bird Walk.
Olivia and her team will start work on the trail in the near future. A bench, in honour of André, will be placed where one can ponder and have fond memories of our colleague, mentor and friend, André!
Rest in peace André!
Operational Report
Ladies Club Champs
16 and 17 May 2023
Our ladies enjoyed two wonderful days of Club Championships. We were faced with all adversities of weather – from pouring rain to sunshine with a definite chill in the air!!
This did not deter any of the ladies and there was amazing comradery throughout both days of the Championship, culminating with our very special prize-giving and a wonderful lunch at SIX33 afterward.
The winners of each division were: –
Congratulations to all our winners and to everyone who took part in our 2023 Club Championships.
Thank you to the residents that supported our blood drive on Saturday 6 May.
We received 15 donations on the day for the South African National Blood Service.
Mother’s Day
We celebrated Mother’s Day with a very special menu at SIX33, including live music and clamber club joined us on the day to ensure our little ones were also looked after. It was certainly enjoyed by everyone.
Cricket Nets
Our DHA Maintenance Team have been hard at work putting in cricket nets at the Hertford Village playpark and we are thrilled to have this facility for our children. We had some unfortunate delays in completion due to the rain, uncommon for this time of the year. But progress has been made and we are near completion. Watch this space!
In the gradual evolution from autumn to winter, nature showcases its resilience and beauty. It is a time to gather with loved ones, to share stories and laughter, and to find joy in the simple pleasures of life.
By Peet Trollip – Operations Manager
