PHOTO OF THE MONTH

PHOTO OF THE MONTH

JULY 2021: "PETRIFIED GIANT ROMAN SANDAL"
Maybe there was a race of Giant Roman Soldiers traversing the Drakensberg in the past, and one of them lost his scandal, or maybe it is just our imagination? Just one of the interesting photos of ROCK SCULPTURES eroded by Sand, Wind and Water that Dave Sclanders has pulled together for our entertainment under the JULY 2021 REPORTS in the NEWSLETTERS SECTION.

JUNE 2021: "CARRIAGE HORSE"
Magnificent Carriage Horse spotted on return to Crab Apple Cottages, Dargle, after a hike through the Kilgobbin Natural Forest. Photo courtesy of Dave Sclanders from his June 2021 hike in the Dargle Valley.

MAY 2021: "GIANT'S CASTLE"
Two horses serenely grazing against with the magnificent backdrop of Giant's Castle looming behind them. Photo courtesy of Dave Sclanders from his May 2021 hike to Mount Lebanon.

APRIL 2021: "OVERCOMING OBSTACLES"
Overcoming obstacles, hiking compliant with Covid protocols, limited numbers, enforced distancing, properly worn mask, definitely something to look forward to in the future - unrestricted hiking and social engagement. Remember these times. Photo courtesy of Dave Sclanders from his April 2021, Three-Caves hike.

MARCH 2021: "BE KIND"
. From underneath the towering columns of the overhead carriageway the simple instruction "Be Kind". Photo courtesy of Janet Curuth. See more of Janet's photos from the GIBA GORGE Hike on the Photo Viewer at: GIBA GORGE PHOTOVIEWER SET, 14 March 2021

FEBRUARY 2021: "VIEW FROM NHLOSANE"
. Fantastic view from the top of NHLOSANE captured by Libby Deysel. See more photos from the NHLOSANE Hike at NHLOSANE FROM MOUNT PARK, 28 February 2021

JANUARY 2021: "HANG ON I'M DOING MY WEAVING"
. Action photo captured by Iain Kerr whilst on the BISLEY VALLEY Hike. See Penny Purchase's full report on on the BISLEY VALLEY hike at BISLEY VALLEY 10 January 2021

DECEMBER 2020: "GIRAFFE"
. Giraffes posing for the camera at the Cumberland Nature Reserve, always so much to take in at Cumberland. See Hettie Randall's full report on on the Cumberland hike at CUMBERLAND 20 December 2020

NOVEMBER 2020: "HIGH WINDS AT GREY FARE'S TAIL FALLS"
"May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind always be at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face..." Irish Blessing. See Keith Ashton's full report on what turned out to be a high wind hike to Grey Mare's Tail Falla:GREY MARE'S TAIL FALLS HIKE 28 November 2020

OCTOBER 2020: "THE SUNGAZER PILGRIMAGE"
This photo by Este Shearar taken along the Sungazer Pilgrimage trail reflects the vast awesomeness of our country, Este, reflecting on the Sungazer Pilgrimage, comments that the trail "was about two things: the camaraderie in our group, and the scenery". See Hettie Randall's full report report and photos from the hike at:SUNGAZER PILGRIMAGE 25-29 OCTOBER 2020

SEPTEMBER 2020: "MEANDER HUT WINDOW VIEW"
Taken from Dave Sclander's report on the Giant's Castle Meander Hut hike which was shrouded in mist, this photo taken from the Meander Hut "window" was from a previous hike to the hut during Winter with Dave reflecting on how differed, yet equally enjoyable though sometimes challenging, each hike is. See Dave Sclanders report and photos from the hike at: MEANDER HUT, GIANT'S CASTLE, 6 September 2020

AUGUST 2020: "ROMAN BATHS"
Crystal clear and cool inviting water, as Dave describes it the perfect day to take time "to enjoy the beautiful blue sky, a fresh breeze the scenery and hear some tales about this part of the berg". See Dave Sclanders report and photos from the hike at: MEANDER HUT, ROMAN BATHS, 2 August 2020

MARCH 2020: "THE SLEEPING GIANT"
Dave Sclander's photo of the Sleeping Giant, head resting on a cloud pillow. taken at the start of Dave's Moonlight hike at Highmoor. See Dave Sclanders report and photos as well as Kostya Zloschastiev's photos from the hike at: Moonlight Hike, Highmoor, 7-8 March 2020

FEBRUARY 2020: "DINING IN STYLE IN A CAVE"
Dining in style in the privately owned Cannibal Cave, on the Cannibal Cave Trail. See the full photoset for this hike at: Cannibal Cave Trail, 15-17 February 2020

JANUARY 2020: "TRANQUIL"
One way to describe Alistair Nixon's photograph taken on the Cedara hike led by himself is "Tranquil". See Alistair's full photoset for this hike at: Cedara Hike, 12 January 2020

NOVEMBER 2019: "PET FRIENDLY"
We do have the occasional "Pet Friendly" hike and on this occasion at Shawswood hike to the bottom of Grey Mare's Tail Falls this Lady accompanied us - obviously gratefull to dip her feet in the stream. See Penny Purchase's full report and photos for this hike at: Christmas Party 2019 and Hike to base of Grey Mare's Tail Falls, 30 November 2019

OCTOBER 2019: "MOONLIGHT"
"By the light- of the Silvery moon,
I'll walk with you
Thro the mountains at night,
I know my friend
You won't forget it soon"
... See Dave Sclanders's full report and photos for this intereesting moonlight hike at: Moonlight Hike, Highmoor, 12-13 October 2019

SEPTEMBER 2019: "CATTLE WALK"
Hikers and cattle share a dusty route, albeit in diffent directions. See Alistair Nixon's full report and photos for this mid-week hike at: Spionkop, 2-3 September 2019

AUGUST 2019: "SAND, SEA, and SKY"
Stunning sea, sand and sky photo from the Club's Rocky Bay Camping weekend. See Brian Henwood's full report for this weekend at: Rocky Bay Camping WWeekend, 8-11 August 2019

JULY 2019: "ROAD TO NOWHERE LAND"
Dave Sclanders describes this scene: "The road led through this tall treed area almost giving one the impression of walking into "Nowhere land". See Dave's report and photos for this hike at: Blinkwater Trail 21 July 2019

JUNE 2019: "UMGENI VALLEY"
Umgeni Valley has always been a popular hike for MHC members and visitors, as can be seen from this photo it offers an easily accessible time away from urban life, pleasant indeed. See hike leader Libby Deysel's report for this hike at: Umgeni Valley, 2 June 2019

MAY 2019: "CONTEMPLATION"
A lone hike contemplates the view, or distance still to go, along the Mt Lebanon hike. As hike leader Dave Sclanders notes, the cairn, to the hikers left, used to indicate the start point of the path that would lead to the top, the cairn is there, however the path was gone, long lost and overgrown . See Dave's report for this hike at: Mt. Lebanon, 26 May 2019

APRIL 2019: "THE LONE RANGER"
Alistair Nixon's portrail of this inquisitive looking"Lone Ranger" along the Demagtenberg hike led by Chris Dobson. See Alistair's report for this hike at: Demagtenberg, Karkloof, 7 April 2019

MARCH 2019: "EVERLASTING DIZZINESS"
From Dave Sclanders camera this "dizziness" of everlasting flowers from his Highmoor Three Falls Hike. See Dave's report and photosset from this hike at: Highmoor 3 Falls Hike, 10 March 2019

FEBRUARY 2019: "THE CHALLENGE"
Every hike presents a challenge to some degree or other, for me this photo by Katy Hart on the Cobham hike, captures that thought. See Katy's photoset from this hike on the PhotoViewer at: Cobham, 10 February 2019

JANUARY 2019: "BENVIE GARDENS"
Charlie Guiot's photo captures a Lily on the quiet pond at the amazing Benvie Gardens. See Charlie's comprehensive photoset from this hike on the PhotoViewer at: Benvie Gardens, 20 January 2019

DECEMBER 2018: "DRAKENSBERG SUNSET"
This amazing view of the sky in the Drakensberg shows just how volatile the weather system is high up in the mountains. Thanks to Alison Chadwick for capturing this moment. See more of Alison's photos from this hike on the PhotoViewer at: ALISON CHADWICK PHOTOSET or Alison's report of the hike with hike leader, Keith Ashton's photos at: Bushman’s Nek Hut, 30 December 2018 to 2 January 2019

NOVEMBER 2018: "EERIE MOON"
This creative moonshot was taken Saturday evening (24th November) of the Hiking Club's Christmas weekend at Mount Park. See Chairman Alistair's full report and more photos at: MHC XMAS PARTY AT MOUNTPARK

OCTOBER 2018: "PROTEA"
Spotted and photographed by one of the hikers on the Caracal Cave weekend hike. Such a magnificent flower, indigenous and a real beauty in it's natural environment. See Keith's full report and other photos at: HIGHMOOR - CARACAL CAVE WEEKEND

SEPTEMBER 2018: "IDIOSYNCRASY"
There are things about this photo, taken on the Cyprus Cave hike, that only those who have hiked with Keith Ashton will understand! See Keith's full report and photos at: MKHOMAZI - CYPRUS CAVE WEEKEND

AUGUST 2018: "MOUNTAINS, MOUNTAINS, & more MOUNTAINS"
View from Sherry Cave (New) shows mountain leading to mountain as far as you can see. See Keith Ashton's full report and photos at: WHYTES CAVE BACKPACKING WEEKEND (Five caves weekend)

JULY 2018: "SEE THE VIEW!"
In contrast to last month's photo, here we see only the hikers stopping to admire the fantastic views on the way down from their Mt Gilboa hike. See Keith Ashton's full report and photos at: Mt. GILBOA via GREY MARE'S TAIL FALLS

JUNE 2018: "CLEOPATRA'S HEIGHTS"
Hike leader Dave Sclanders describes the scene as "breathtaking views below us, dramatic and clear". See Dave Sclanders's full report and photos at: CLEOPATRA'S HEIGHTS - HIGHMOOR

MAY 2018: "GROUP SELFIE"
INhlosane, one of the Big 4 challenges, is a testing hike, so why not indulge in a group selfie once the climb has been conquered - sense of achievement is evident on these MHC members faces. See Alistair Nixon's full report and photos at: INHLOSANE

APRIL 2018: "AVENUE THROUGH PLANTATION"
Power lines cut a wide swathe through the pine plantations on the Cedara hike return journey. See Alistair Nixon's full report and photos at: CEDARA HIKE

MARCH 2018: "BUTTERFLY"
I was spoiled for choice in selecting this month's photo so to avoid favouritism I selected one of my own photos! See Rod Hart's full report and photos at: CUMBERLAND NATURE RESERVE

FEBRUARY 2018: "HOWICK FALLS"
Magnificent view of Howick Falls from what hike leader Keith Ashton describes as "a rarely visited spot". See Keith Ashton's full report and photos at: UMGENI VALLEY NATURE RESERVE

JANUARY 2018: "PERSPECTIVE"
From Hike Leader Dave Sclanders report on this FORT NOTTINGHAM hike: "The road slunk into a path and the path slunk into a very overgrown hard to follow, game track through the long grassy undergrowth, hidden rocks under the grass did their bit to hinder progress." Dave's accompanying photograph does give perspective to what may feel as the vastness of ground covered. See Dave Sclanders full report and photos at: FORT NOTTINGHAM

DECEMBER 2017: "STORM BREWING"
Hike Leader Keith Ashton writes "Storm clouds gather on our return from Painters Cave". My experience of weather in the Berg is one of being in the middle of where weather is generated and this photo of Keith's, for me reflects that image. Moments later the hikers were being drenched and in a thunderstorm still some distance from the hut. See Keith Ashton's well documented report and photos at: BUSHMAN'S NEK

NOVEMBER 2017: "TRANQUIL SETTING"
Photo shows the tranquil setting of MOUNT PARK where MHC held our 2017 Christmas Party. To see the less tranquil activities of this weekend see Keith Ashton's report and photos at: MOUNT PARK or view Alistair Nixon/Brian Henwood PhotoViewer set at: MOUNT PARK PHOTOS or Andy Pepperell's pdf report at: MOUNT PARK REPORT

OCTOBER 2017: "NETWORKING"
On an Umgeni Valley hike Harry puts his own spin on 'networking'. See Keith Ashton's full report and photos at: UMGENI VALLEY

SEPTEMBER 2017: "STOP & LOOK BREAK"
Quoted from Alistair Nixon's report on the WHALE TRAIL "First day of hiking is long and quite demanding. Our group took 8.5 hours allowing for plenty of 'stop and look time'. The climb is a 600m elevation." The photo shows one of these such "stop & look" times! See Alistair Nixon's report at: WHALE TRAIL

AUGUST 2017: "THE BIG FOUR"
Celebration by Loga, Carolee, and Eric who became the first three to do Midland's Hiking Club "The Big 4" peaks. The other three being Nhlazane, Mt Gilboa, Bulwer Mountain. From Alistair Nixon's report on the climb up SWARTKOP

JULY 2017: "GIRAFFE"
Just 10km or so outside of Pietermaritzburg Cumberland Nature Reserve offers hikers the feel of the South African bushveld, little wonder that hikes here are always popular. See more of Rod Hart's pics from the Cumberland hike at: CUMBERLAND

JUNE 2017: "FINE or FAR"
I find myself needing to showcase, from the same Monks Cowl hike, two photographs this month - in the first Dave Sclanders captures the fine detail that may be missed as our gators brush past the early morning dew soaked grass. In the second photograph Brian Henwood captures the more classic hiking scene, with the hiker possibly contemplating the distance to her goal. See Dave Sclanders's report and pics from this hike at: Monk's Cowl Tenting Week End and more of Brian Henwood's photos from the same hike at: MONKS COWL WEEKEND

MAY 2017: "SWING BRIDGE"
A "Swing Bridge" does exactly that - swings as you walk on it! Hikers here seen tentatively tackling the swing bridge at Cobham. See Dave Sclanders's report and pics from this hike at: Cobham Tenting Week End

APRIL 2017: "LOOKING AT YOU"
As hikers we frequently see birds of prey in their natural habitat, but are seldom able to see them in the stunning detail that the "African Birds of Prey Sanctuary" affords us. See more of Rod Hart's pics from the MHC visit to the African Birds of Prey Sanctuary at: AFRICAN BIRD OF PREY SANCTUARY (Ashburton)

MARCH 2017: "TAKING A BREAK"
Brian Henwood's photo captures an essential element of every hike - the welcome break! See more of Brian Henwood's pics from the Bulwer Mountain hike at: BULWER MOUNTAIN

FEBRUARY 2017: "HIKERS & BOVINES"
Sometimes weather conditions are not ideal. The cattle could well question what drives the hikers courageous strides in such weather! See Libby Deysel's report and more of John Fourie's pics from this hike at: BUFFELSBOSCH HIKE

JANUARY 2017: "CHRISTA ROCKING"
Keith Ashton's photograph shows Christa Gadd "rocking", as Keith describes it with Devil's Knuckles background on the left and Thaba Ngangwe to the right. See Keith Ashton's report and more pics at: NEW YEAR AT BUSHMANS NEK HUT

DECEMBER 2016: "RIVER CROSSING"
On the hike on which this photo was taken, though the water and green vegetation make for a cool inviting scene, as they hiked Dave recalls "the temperature rose very quickly to become quite unbearable". See Dave Sclanders report and more pics at: Swiman Hut Hikes

NOVEMBER 2016: "MAJSTIC RHINO PEAK"
Photo from "Another Absolutely Amazing Ashton Adventure" taken on a hike from the Drakensberg Gardens Cottage. See Rose Dix's report and more of Keith's pics at: Blinkwater Trail

OCTOBER 2016: "FARAWAY TREE"
The Blinkwater Trail seems to be quite a gem of a hiking trail, largely unreported by the MHC, that was until Katy Hart went on the trail, her fascinating report includes this photo of what she calls Enid Blyton's "faraway tree". See Katy's report at: Blinkwater Trail

SEPTEMBER 2016: "CLIVIA"
Another "tradition" that MHC follows is an annual pilgrimage to see the wild Clivia on the way to Grey mare's Tail Falls at Bushwillow Park, undaunted by the wet and slippery conditions this dedicated team of hikers led by Neville went to see the Clivias. See Neville's report on this hike at: Grey Mare's Tail Falls

AUGUST 2016: "WHOSE UNDERWEAR?"
From Dave Sclanders Nhlosane hike report: "There is a sort of a tradition that is expected of those whole do reach the beacon at the top of the mountain, and that is that maybe you should leave a piece of your underwear tied onto the beacon. As a few of our party had disappeared from time to time, just as we were ready to start the downhill part, the question was asked "Who had left some underwear on the beacon ??. The response was surprising, hands shot up all from all around the group". Personally I suspect the photographer was asking "who has had enough of this weather and wants to go back down now?" See Dave's full report on this hike at: Satori to Nhlosane

JULY 2016: "FRAMING THE MOMENT"
This is one of a series of photos, taken from a Keith Ashton "AMAZING ADVENTURE" launched from the Drakensberg Gardens Cottage, it is all about framing the moment. See Rose Dix's full report on this hike together with Keith Ashton's photos at: Drakensberg Gardens Cottage - Mid Week

JUNE 2016: "SETTING OUT"
For June I move away from the Berg to Boulder Dam at Ferncliffe, Pietermaritzburg, my picture shows hikers setting off on this hike into the still rising sun, the experience of the hike lies still ahead. See my (Rod Hart) photoset of this interesting hike led by Julia Preese : Boulder Dam

MAY 2016: "REFLECTIONS"
Keith's photo, besides being imaginative, shows another aspect of the beauty of the Berg as well as something of the camaraderie of the hiking club. See Rose Dix's full report on this hike together with Keith Ashton's photos at: Drakensberg Gardens Cottage

APRIL 2016: "I LOVE HIKING"
On pure marketing appeal the April photo of the month has to go to Katy's "I love hiking". This photo taken on the hike to Aasvoelkrans cave. You can ask Katy Hart about the full story behind finding heart-shaped stones in the Berg! See Katy's full report at: Aasvoelkrans Cave

MARCH 2016: "Watching the Weather Brew"
The fascinating thing about the high Berg is that you can literally watch the weather brewing up - not so good is that you have little chance of out running it. This photo from Keith Ashton's set taken on the hike to Wonder Valley. See Keith's full report at: Wonder Valley

FEBRUARY 2016: "Red Hot Pokers and Bees"
This photo snapped by new member Rose Smith while on the Cedara morning hike led by Brian Henwood. See more of Rose's pics at: Cedara Morning Hike

JANUARY 2016: "Holding up the rock - quick hurry past!"
'Holding up the rock' is one of the fun photos from Keith Ashton's report on their trip to McKenzies Cave. See Keith's full report at: McKenzies Cave report

DECEMBER 2015: "A Trail of Hikers"
A 'Trail of Hikers' in Dave Sclanders photo from the December/January hike at Bushman's Nek. See Dave's full report at: Bushman's Nek report

NOVEMBER 2015: "Baynesfield Dam"
Peace and Tranquility, in Katy Hart's photo from the Baynesfield Dam hike. See Katy's full report at: Baynesfield report

OCTOBER 2015: "View from White Horse Cave"
What a view - this photo from the adventurous hike led by Keith Ashton, over the weekend visiting 5 caves in the Bushman's Nek area. See the full report at: Five Cave Weekend

SEPTEMBER 2015: "Along the Way"
Between the hikes led by Deon to Marble Baths and Neville's misty hike to Grey Mare's Tail Falls, I was spoiled for selection for this month's photo choice. I have opted to showcase what can be seen "along the way" by the astute hiker who takes time to view some of the smaller things along the route, together with a photo looking back at the trail from Marble Baths Cave. These pics were selected from the photosets supplied by Deon (Protea), Katy (White flower, and trail) and Charlie (Ladybug): Their respective full photosets are filled with great photos from the Marble Baths Cave hike and can be viewed at: Deon; Katy; Charlie

AUGUST 2015: "Nguni Bull"
Not only do we share tracks with the wild, but in August the Club, thanks to Penny Purchase who also took this photo, was privileged to walk on the private Michaelhouse Conservatory, and walk among their herd of Nguni cattle. See the full report at: Michaelhouse Nature Reserve

JULY 2015: "Wildebeest"
From Keith's UMGENI VALLEY hike - how privileged we are to be able, half-an-hour outside of our City, to be able to share tracks in this beautiful Umgeni Valley with the Wildebeest. See the full report at: Umgeni Valley

JUNE 2015: "Cathkin Mirror"
In his Makulumane report Alistair Nixon describes the view back towards Cathkin as "... stunning, probably one of the best." His photo of Cathkin mirrored in the water gives an idea of what he is talking about. See the full report at: Makulumane

MAY 2015: "Misty View"
Dave Sclanders captured this photo and describes the scene "...we climbed higher, and came to a point, where as the mist swirled an twisted and turned, we could get some views of the valleys and lakes below us. Most awesome of all, across the valleys from us, the dancing grey veil of mist threw us glimpses of the most incredible subtle views of the valleys and high berg beyond." See the full Photoset at: Lakes Cave

APRIL 2015: "Valleys"
Dave Sclanders stands above a valley on an "explaratory hike" one of many such hikes that Dave undertakes in search of new hikes (and elusive caves...)for the club. See the full Photoset at: Highmoor Exploratory Hike

MARCH 2015: "Ouch!"
We are spoilt for choice to select for this months photo, with good photosets coming in from Gilboa, Adamshurst and McKenzies hikes, so I opted for the accompanying imaginative "one of a kind" pic from Katy & Charlies's photoset of the McKenzies hike. See the full Photoset at: McKenzie's Cave

FEBRUARY 2015: "TRACK TO WHYTE'S CAVE"
Dave Sclanders photo of hikers setting out early to Whyte's Cave captures a sense of exploration and expectency with this pic - a world of adventure awaits the hikers. See the full Photoset at: Whyte's Cave

JANUARY 2015: "LONG-WINGED KITE SPIDER"
From Charlie Guiot, a vicious looking little spider (Long-winged kite spider - Gasteracantha versicolor) spotted along the way of the Dwarf's Dawdle hike at Umgeni valley, in spite of its looks this spider's bite is generally described as "harmless" . See the Dwarf's Dawdle hike full Photoset at: Dwarf's Dawdle

DECEMBER 2014: "AASVOELSKRANS"
Keith Ashton's photo from inside this amazing cave (with en suite shower). See the full Photoset at: New Year at Aasvoelkrans Cave

NOVEMBER 2014: "MOUNTAIN MORNING"
Dave Sclanders describes the scene: "shadowy blue/grey mountain tops of Cathkin and Champagne venture out above a blanket of low cloud". See the full Photoset at: Stable Cave

OCTOBER 2014: "WORN TRACK TO BANNERMAN'S"
From Charlie Guiot & Katy Hart's photoset this worn track to Bannerman's Hut stretching far into this distance; as with last month's photo means "lots of ground to be covered" and in this case it better also be quickly before the clouds in the background let loose their vegeance. See the full Photoset at: Bannerman's Hut

SEPTEMBER 2014: "GIANT'S CUP"
Alistair's photo of the Giant's Cup in the distance captures the layers so often seen in the Burg, the rough texture of the foreground layers smoothing out as the eye is led into the distance - for the hiker this means "lots of ground to be covered"!. See Alistair Nixon's report at: Cobham Weekend Camp

AUGUST 2014: "iNhlosane"
Always a sense of achievement in gathering around the trig beacon on top of iNhlosane. The beacon itself has suffered a bit from graffiti since last appearing as the Photo of the Month in February 2007. See Daves's report at: iNhlosane

JULY 2014: "MAGICAL MORNING LIGHT"
Magical morning light streaming through the trees in this gum tree plantation. Photographer Peter Rippon writes "...not sure if it was mist, smoke, or dust, but the effect is just as beautiful regardless." See Peter's report at: CEDARA

JUNE 2014: "SUN, SAND, STEPS & SEA"
From of Katy Hart & Charlie Guiot's sets of photos from the T.O.STRAND long weekend camp - what an interesting time they had, organised by Bushy Kirby. See Katy's report at: T.O.STRAND There are also three photosets with over 100 photos - access them via the Newsletters page, look under June 2014 reports.

MAY 2014: "AS FAR AS THE EYE CAN SEE"
Another magnificent panoramic view - you will have to climb to the top of BULWER MOUNTAIN to see this one. From the hike led by this pics photographer Brian Henwood. See the full report & photos from this hike at: Bulwer Mountain Hike.

APRIL 2014: "LOST VALLEY"
I have "lifted" this photo from the exploratory hike led by Dave Sclanders - the hike on which he suffered a heart attack - his report on the hike and his subsequent recovery makes interesting reading. See Dave's report & more photos from this hike at: Lost Valley.

MARCH 2014: "PHOTOGRAPHER"
View from the trail on the Lammergeier Cave hike taken from Katy Hart & Charlie Guiot's photoset captures the photographer lining up his shot of the magnificent panorama below. See the full all the photosets from this hike at: �Katy Hart & Charlie Guiot Photoset� or �Dave Sclanders Report & photos�

FEBRUARY 2014: "MORNING VIEW FROM SHERRY CAVE"
With Dave Sclanders, Irene Wisdom, Charlie Guiot, & Katy Hart all on the same hike we were bound to be spoilt for choice of photos for February. The pic I have selected shows the magnificence of camping out in "the Berg" - this is the early morning view from Sherry Cave taken from Katy Hart & Charlie Guiot's photoset. See the full all the photosets from this hike at: �Katy Hart & Charlie Guiot Photoset 1� �Katy Hart & Charlie Guiot Photoset 2� �Dave Sclanders Photoset� �Irene Wisdom Photoset�

JANUARY 2014: "POWER SHOWER"
Hiker taking a swim in the waterfall alongside Aasvoelkrans Cave provides a powerful picture photographed by Dave Sclanders. See the full report at: �New Years Hike Aasvoelskranz�.

DECEMBER 2013: "STINKHORN FUNGUS - ASEROE RUBRA"
An alien looking growth found below Beacon Hill on the pre-Xmas Party hike, spotted and photographed by Rod Hart. The smelly brown spore-bearing slime on top of the fungus attracts flies which serve to spread the spores. See the full report at: �Beacon Hill pre-Xmas Party Hike�.

NOVEMBER 2013: "WEAVER WEAVING"
Well not actually weaving, but taking a break to swing on the frame of his "in construction" nest, photographed by Charlie Guiot along the banks of the Umgeni river on the Howick Meander hike. See the full report at: �Howick Meander�.

OCTOBER 2013: "EVERLASTINGS"
Among the first plants to flower in Spring the "Brilliant crimson flowers of Helichrysum vernum" photographed on the Baynesfield Hike by Rod Hart. See the full report at: �Baynesfield�.

SEPTEMBER 2013: "CLIVIA"
Clivia are described as "typically forest undergrowth plants, adapted to low light" they are native to Southern Africa it is not all that often we come across them in the wild, certainly not in the expanses that they can be found in on this Grey Mare's Tail Falls hike. This photo of a single cluster of Clivia flowers was taken by Rod Hart. See the full report at: �Grey Mare's Tail Falls�.

AUGUST 2013: "QUIET REFLECTIONS"
This tranquil morning photo supplied by one of the hikers on the Whale Trail that Neville Lee participated in. See the full SimpleViewer photoset at: �Montebello�.

JULY 2013: "AFRICAN BLACK OYSTERCATCHER"
Photo supplied by Keith Ashton from the Rocky Bay Camp. I love the contrast between the Black Oytercatcher and the brilliant white surf behind her in this photo. See the full report at: �Rocky Bay�.

JUNE 2013: "MQEKU RIVER VALLEY"
This photo was taken by Brian Henwood during a "spectacular hike on the edge of Mqeku river valley"led by Bushy Kirby. See the full report at: �Montebello�.

MAY 2013: "SUNRISE"
On (yet another) exploration into the Central Drakensberg to look for the so called "Lost Cave" Dave Sclanders describes getting up early to watch the sunrise over the mountains - resulting in this stunning photo. See the full report at: �Lost Cave Exploration�.

APRIL 2013: "AUTUMN"
"The Kamberg valley is a beautiful farming valley, and at this time of year the Autumn colours of the trees are beautiful, and the red lands being prepared for winter feed are a stark contrast" so Dave Sclanders describes his photo taken on his way to the Highmoor Tenting Weekend. See the full report at: �Highmoor Tenting Weekend�.

MARCH 2013: "PROTEA & MIST"
From a misty wet walk to "somewhere near the top of Bulwer mountain" the lesson here is that it is wiser and safer to turn and retrace your steps rather than continue blindly - here we follow that sage advice and make our way back. Rod Hart pauses to get this photo as we pass a protea. See the full report at: �Bulwer Mountain Hike�.

FEBRUARY 2013: "CYPRUS CAVE"
From one of our most reported on caves, Cyprus Cave, Charlie Guiot's photo captures the view from inside the cave through a curtain of water. See the full SimpleViewer set of 50 pics at: �Cyprus Cave�.

JANUARY 2013: "WILDFLOWER POSY"
From the Giant's Castle Hut, tenting weekend hike, Dave Sclanders finds a posy of wildflowers. See more of the flower pics in the full hike report at: �Giant's Castle Hut�.

DECEMBER 2012: "MIDLANDS HIKING CLUB"
From our last hike of the year Brian Henwood leads as members stride out along the path in the Hilton College Conservancy trail to Gwen Falls. See more of my pics from the Hilton College Conservancy Hike at: �Gwen Falls Hike�.

NOVEMBER 2012: "MOUNTAIN CASCADE"
Some words of advise from Dave Sclanders on the Bushmans Nek hike "...the climb became steeper and quite an effort for the not so fit hikers. The scenery was very pretty. If one could spend some time dwelling on this changing scenery, and not where the badly overgrown path was leading, the climb was very rewarding" See more of Dave's pics from the Bushmans Nek Hike at: �Bushmans Nek Hike�.

OCTOBER 2012: "DAVE WITH BROLLY"
We so often feature Dave Sclanders photographs and highlight his reports, it is about time he in turn is shown. Here MHC newby hiker, Kate Hart, captures "the old Man of the Mountain" huddled under his brolly on the Everdon Estates Hike. See more of Kates pics from the Everdon Estates Hike at: �Everdon Estates Hike�.

SEPTEMBER 2012: "THE TARN"
On a hike from Sehlabathebe Lodge, Dave Sclanders describes the scene when this magical picture of a tarn was taken: "the ever changing views as the mist lifted, rolled here and there, then finally settled over the lowlands of KZN, we had plenty to take our minds off the hard climb" See Dave Sclanders full report and pics at: �Clear, Cool Sehlabathebe Lodge�.

JULY 2012: "THE OLD BORDER POST"
In the middle of no where, on a bleak and wind swept open plateau, the remains of a long forgotten border post of the Mountain Kingdom of Lesotho. See Dave Sclanders full report and pics at: �Windy, Snowy, Bleak Tarn Cave�.

JUNE 2012: "HARRY AT HALF-MAST"
During the June Boston T Party Weekend Keith Ashton captured this pic of "Harry at half-mast" the caption alone entitles it to this Photo of the Month spot. Keith's full report and more pics are at: �BOSTON T PARTY�.

MAY 2012: "GOLDEN MORNING"
Irene Wisdom captures the glorious golden morning colours before the start of the CANNIBAL TRAIL at Clarens. See more of Irenes pics at: �CANNIBAL TRAIL�.

APRIL 2012: "I'M WATCHING YOU!"
Lettie Oosthuizen is a keen hiker and her reports are filled with interesting photos providing comprehensive overviews of the hikes she reports on - great records for future hikers to view. Here Lettie's photographic endeavors are watched by a curious little lizard. See Lettie's full report on this particular hike at: �CYPRUS CAVE�.

MARCH 2012: "THAWING OUT"
Quoting Dave Sclanders again: "As we passed a tree in the very thick, wet mist, a sudden fluttering in the bush caught my eye. On closer inspection , a very wet and bedraggled Dragon Fly was seen holding it�s very wet wings out to dry". See Dave's full report at: �SHERRY CAVE�.

FEBRUARY 2012: "NO BETTER FEELING"
To quote Dave Sclanders whose photo this is "There can be no better feeling than walking through the great mountain spaces and enjoying a view that starts at your feet, and runs uninterrupted for as far as one can see". See Dave's full report at: �SINCLAIRS�.

JANUARY 2012: CHRIS & BRIGITTA
Photo of Chris & Brigitta at the Mzimkhulu River by Keith Ashton to me is a classic "take home to remember" portrait in the Berg. See the full report at: �GARDEN CASTLE WEEKEND�.

DECEMBER 2011: DERELICT ST.MARY'S SEMINARY
Different type of subject matter for this photo of the month, taken by Rod Hart (me), the eerily derelict St. Mary's Seminary built by the Trapist monks in 1928. See the full report at: �DLANGALE�.

NOVEMBER 2011: BRIDGE OVER THE DELMHLWAZINI RIVER
Keith Ashton's photo of 9yr old hiker "Mishy" on the Bridge with Champagne Castle, Monks Cowl and Catkin Peak in the background. See the full report at: �WONDER VALLEY�.

OCTOBER 2011: FIELD OF FLOWERS
Photo of this stunning field of flowers sent in by Brian Henwood from a hike at Didema. See more of the flower pics at: �DIDEMA�.

SEPTEMBER 2011: I GOT TO THE TOP NOW WHAT?
Photo submitted by John Fourie from an "exploratory" hike seeking out an "alleged secret cave" . See John's full report at: �NDLOVINI�.

AUGUST 2011: WINTER WONDERLAND
Photo submitted by Keith Ashton. We don't often get snow scenes from the Berg. In his report Keith describes this as a spectacular hike despite the harsh conditions as they braved the bitter cold and deep snow. See the full report at: �SWIMAN HUT�.

JULY 2011: SHERRY CAVE - JUST CHILLING
Photo submitted by Irene Wisdom but since she is the subject I assume the pic was taken by either Mark or Keith. Photo captures the relaxation after a hard hike, this is what hikers come to the Berg for, though a little too close to the edge for my liking. See the full report at: �SHERRY CAVE�.

JUNE 2011: ENGAGEMENT CAVE
Photo submitted with Margret Kirsten's report, it most likely taken by Keith Ashton. The photo captures in one shot the grand scale of the rocks in the region of Engagement Cave. See the full report at: �DRAKENSBERG GARDENS, SWIMAN HUT�.

MAY 2011: COBHAM
Photo by Dave Sclanders. From an exploration hike to the high Indlovini Ridge, this worthwhile view of the deep and spreading valleys. See Dave's full report at: �COBHAM TENTING WEEKEND�.

APRIL 2011: STRANDLOOPER TRAIL
Sent in by Irene Wisdom this pic epitomises some experiences of their Strandlooper Trail. See the full report at: �STRANDLOOPER TRAIL�.

MARCH 2011: Sunrise at Whytes Cave
As Dave Sclanders describes it "...with an exciting expectation of a special sunrise, a few of us awoke a bit earlier than the rest, and made our way up to the vantage point from where an un-interrupted view of the sunrise could be enjoyed." See his full report at: �Whytes Cave�.

FEBRUARY 2011: Lake Lyndhurst
Beautiful colours and tranquility captured in Mary Clover's photo taken at Lake Lyndhurst. See the full report at: �Lake Lyndhurst�.

JANUARY 2011: Little Bug
January's photo of the month goes to Deveen Hollingworth's little bug photo for noticing the smaller things along a hike and sharing it with us. See the full report at: �Umgeni Valley Hike�.

DECEMBER 2010: Nandi Falls
Mary Clover's nicely positioned and framed photo of Nadi Falls with the hiking group sheltering behind the falls. See the full report at: �Makukumane Weekend�.

NOVEMBER 2010: Christie must take a closer look
Chris Simpson is to be congratulated on his framing and quick eye to capture this pic. See the full report at: �Sweetwaters Cotage Weekend�.

SEPTEMBER 2010: Highmoor
Tucked away in the Berg is this remnant shell of a cottage, sturdy and with a panoramic view over the valley - but with no close source of water. One can only marvel at the dreams that must have inspired the building of this little home in the Berg. Pic by Dave Sclanders see the full report at:�Club weekend at Maountain Shadows�.

JULY 2010: Tarn Cave
From a number of photos submitted by Irene Wisdom of the Tarn Cave weekend I have selected her pic of Keith standing, somewhat defiantly on crutches, against the rugged backdrop of the Devil's Knuckles. See all the pics at �Weekend Hike to Tarn Cave�. (Click on the photo to give an enlarged image)

MAY 2008: Ride To Rhodes
My favourite of all the wonderful scenic photos provided by Brian Henwood is this scene of the bikers in the tranquil rural environment they often travelled through with foreboding mountain climbs providing the backdrop. Report is at �Ride to Rhodes�. (Click on the photo to give an enlarged image)

MARCH 2008: Dinosaur Cave
What intrigues me about this photo of water cascading over Dinosaur Cave are the sharp contrasts and whiteness of the water giving a rather sinister appearance, Dave Sclanders describes the scene "Water casscades over the cave area and provides a freezing shower (took my breath away as I stood beneath it)" been out in the mountains a bit long I think... Report is at �Dinosaur Cave�. (Click on the photo to give an enlarged image)

JANUARY 2008: New Years Eve
Classic pic of our own Keith & Margaret Ashton celebrating New Years Eve in a cave in the Berg! Photo by Dave Sclanders. Report is at �New Years Eve in A Cave in the Drakensberg�. (Click on the photo to give an enlarged image)

NOVEMBER 2007: Three PHOTOS
Difficult to select one photo from the fine selection submitted for reports published in November so I have chosen three and will let you, the viewer, decide how you would rate them! First is Brian Henwood's "Picture Postcard" shot from Cobham see the report at Bikers and Scenic Shots. Second is Irene Wisdom's own "Picture Postcard"shot taken while on the way back from a weekend stay at "Sweetwaters" see this report at Sweetwaters. Thirdly Dave Sclanders had been trying out the close up features on his new camera when he had the perception to capture this angle of a dew laden protea, report (and more of Dave's flower pix) at Wonder Valley.(Click on the photos to give an enlarged image)

OCTOBER 2007: 3 Hippo
From the Oct 2007 report submitted by Keith Ashton of the June 2007 Kosi Bay trail. Upriver at St Lucia , Keith captured this spectacular pic of 2 adult Hippo with baby trying to get in on the act. (Click on the photo to give an enlarged image)

SEPT 2007: Hikers on the beach
From the Sept 2007 report by Mark & Mary Nellist: Kwelapha Cottage, this photo of the foottrails of four hikers walking along the beach towards Rocky Bay. Mildly disturbing the symmetry of the pattern is a partial set of prints which appears to join the third persons tracks - see of you can work it out! (Click on the photo to give an enlarged image)

MAY 2007: Tarn Cave - Devil's Knuckles framed
Irene Wisdom has a great eye for framing her scenes - have a look at her photos in these two reports. From the March 2007 Report: Tarn Cave and from February 2007 Report: Whytes Cave. Petro Mostert's delightful writeup of the Whytes Cave weekend is in May's Newsletter

APRIL 2007: The awesome descent down Bannermans Pass
Submitted by Keith Ashton,this photo showing the wet and misty conditions during the MHC Re-Supply Team's descent down Bannermans Pass. From the April 2007 Report: Grand Traverse Re-Supply

MARCH 2007: Peter Wedge nearing Austrian Hut (Mt Kenya)
Submitted by Allison Gunning, though I am not certain who the photo credit belongs to, this picture of Peter Wedge nearing Austrian Hut at 4700m on the Mt Kenya climb tells the story of the high altitude weariness. From the March 2007 Report: Climbing Mt.Kenya

FEBRUARY 2007: Nhlazane
Submitted by Brian Henwood the February Photo of the Month goes to the Midlands Hiking Club group pic on top of Nhlazane - a classic group shot with the participants seemingly frozen in time. From the Newsletter February 2007 Report: Nhlazane

DECEMBER 2006: Father Christmas & the Christmas Fairy
December's photo of the month just had to go to Irene Wisdom's photo from the MHC Christmas Party. Pat and Bushy provide much cheer

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NOVEMBER 2006: A Helping Hand
MAIN PIC: This photo submitted by Dave Sclanders for the Giant's Castle - Langalibalele Pass Hike in November 2006, truly captures the moment. Other pics from the same hike receive worthy mention - notably Keith (again) with trowel in hand and then the more scenic shot of hikers seemingly outrunning the cloud banking up behind them

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Sunsetting in the Berg
This series of pics courtesy of Dave Sclanders, taken in the Kamberg area looking towards the setting sun, shows the striking lighting changes that occur at sunset. The first pic in the series was taken at 18:05, the second at 18:26 and the last at 18:30. Hikers in the foreground of the first pic are Chantel, Teresa and Allison.

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Sunset in the Berg
This month I have taken poetic license and chosen one of our Chairman's (Dave Sclanders) photos from a non MHC hike. Dave was commissioned to spend a week in the Berg with a group of British School leavers (British Schools Exploration Society) when he took this sunset scene. To me what sets it apart is the stark simplicity with the lack of detail leaving the strata of tones to visually impact. You can see more of Dave's photos in his Bergfree Newsletters on his site www.bergfree.co.za

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Flower
This delicate picture was captured by Elmarie Crous whilst on the Giant's Cup Trail

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Morning over Tarn Cave
Picture by Keith Ashton, capturing early morning clouds reflected in a tarn over Tarn Cave. Fellow hikers, Rod and Dave, stand silhouetted against the rising sun

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