• Castaways Animal Sanctuary fundraiser
Support the Castaways Animal Sanctuary’s Market Day to be held on Saturday, April 2 from 09:00 to 14:30 in Wilbotsdal, Randfontein. There will also be live entertainment by Billy Forrest, Ryno, Nick Blackstone and Jessie Boston. Any donations also welcome. Contact Keagan on 074 019 0837 for more information.

• Cedar Tree Night Market
Perfect weather is predicted for Khosa Sport Club’s Cedar Tree Night Market on Friday, April 1 from 17:00 to 21:00. Entrance is free. Pet-friendly. Paid parking. The address is cnr of Shannon Road and Frederick Cooper Drive in Kenmare. Contact Chanelle on 081 500 6884 for more information.

• Honeydew Urban Market
Easter is in the air! So dress up silly and join the Honeydew Urban Market on Saturday, April 2 from 09:00 to 15:00. You will get all your Easter spoils at either the indoor market or pop-up stalls. The indoor market will have homemade jams, farm-fresh veggies, artisanal cheeses, upcycled furniture, and fabulous crafts. You can also enjoy breakfast, lunch or simply coffee and cake at the Not Bread Alone Bakery. Entrance is free. Follow them @honeydewurbanmarket on Facebook for more information.

• Ngwenya’s Easter Market
Shop to your heart’s delight at Ngwenya Glass Village’s Easter Market in Muldersdrift on Sunday, April 3 from 09:00 to 16:00. Expect yummy food, a gin bar, Gilroy’s brewery, live glass-blowing, beautiful arts and crafts, homemade produce, outdoor go-carting and vibey music. Entrance is free.

• Cedar Tree Craft Market
Pop in at the Cedar Tree Craft Market for their Sunday markets from 10:00 to 15:00 on Sunday, April 10 and 24. Apart from live entertainment, you can expect an array of excellent stalls selling high-quality products and mouth-watering foods. Venue is Khosa Sports Club at the cnr of Shannon Road and Frederick Cooper Drive in Kenmare. Contact Chanelle on 081 500 6884 for more information.

• Black Horse Easter Market
Spend a day out in the country at the Black Horse Easter Market at the Black Horse Brewery from 10:00 to 15:00 on Monday, April 18. There will be crafts stalls, craft beer and gin, live music, food trucks, ice cream tastings, helicopter rides, picnics and fun stuff to keep the kids busy. Or you can do a wine tasting for R120. Entrance is free. Visit blackhorse.co.za for more information.

• Brauhaus Boeremusiek and Market Day
Pencil the event in your diary and get ready for a fun-filled day at the Brauhaus Boeremusiek and Market Day on Saturday, May 14 from 09:00 to 16:00. Browse through a variety of stalls that will sell only homemade, handmade and local products. There will also be live music and mouth-watering street-style German food to tuck into. The event takes place at Brauhaus Afrika on the R24 between Rustenburg and Joburg. Kids under 12 enter for free. Contact 064 617 2423 for more information.

• Barry Hilton at Silverstar
Undoubtedly one of South Africa’s favourite comedians, Barry Hilton’s humour comes with an unmistakable flavour … funny, good, clean, family-friendly comedy fun dished out in generous portions. Whether you’re a die-hard Barry fan or you’ve never been to a comedy show, be sure to catch this icon in action at his hilarious best. His latest show Unscripted will be at Silverstar on April 8 and 9. Details: silverstar.co.za

• Mellville Koppies ‘a place of learning’
Many people who visit Melville Koppies want to test their fitness, see beautiful views or experience nature. But for some recent visitors it’s a place of learning. One dad brought his two sons and took them on the Heritage trail. He plans to show them all the heritage sites in and around Joburg and Pretoria. First-year Wits geology students got to feel what it means to be a geologist: getting out in the field, scrambling over rocks, finding your way through tall grass, regardless of the weather. You too can learn something new on Melville Koppies. Book a guided tour on 079 532 0083 (or be there by 08:30 and learn about the history and the way in which different living things on the koppies interact. Or guide yourselves on the 3km heritage trail. If learning is not your interest, you can still test your fitness on the 5km self-guided hike, join a guided 8km hike starting at 08:00 sharp on the first Sunday of the month. And if these are too demanding, just take a chilled self-guided walk for however long or short you want along the extensive network of paths. Adults R80, children R40; season ticket for a year per adult – R500 (not transferable). Income used for maintenance of the Koppies; R22 000 needs to be raised per month. Security on the Koppies is provided; park in secure parking opposite the entrance at Marks Park on Judith Road, Emmarentia. Contact wendavid@mweb.co.za or call 079 532 0083 to find out more. Check out www.mk.org.za for more detailed information about the history and what you can see or https://www.facebook.com/melvillekoppies.

• Friends of Kloofendal (FroK) events this April
Why not spend the autumn walking in nature and learning about creepy crawlies, insect bites, flowers, trees and more? Don’t miss the Friends of Kloofendal events below:
• Historical Mine Tour on Sunday, April 3 @14:00 – Join Rod Kruger on a walk through the past from the Stamp Mills up to and into the Struben Confidence Reef gold mine, highlighting where the gold came from, and the people who discovered it, leading to the rise of the City of Gold, Johannesburg. Rod will take you back to the 1880s and the characters who found gold here and changed the history of South Africa.
• Weekday birding on Wednesday, April 6 @ 07:00 – Kloofendal is a hotspot for a large number of bird species. Join one of the Kloofendal birding guides on a exploration of Kloofendal Nature Reserve.
• Creep Crawly night Walk on Friday, April 8 @ 18:00 – Join Jonathan Leeming on a night time exploration in search of all kind of animals that creep and crawl. It will be an evening of spiders, scorpions, insects, frogs, toads and if we are lucky snakes! This family event is both fun and educating.
• FroK Open Day on Saturday, April 9 @ 08:00 – Friends of Kloofendal Open Days are held in the Ecological Centre in Kloofendal. They provide an excellent way for you to get to know the reserve, what is happening, and how to get involved with the numerous conservation and community projects.
• Geology Walk on Saturday, April 9 @ 08:00 – Join FroK in a two-hour guided walk. The Kloofendal Nature Reserve is located at the intersection of two major geological faults, the Rietfontein and Witpoortjie faults, creating geological complexity that brought the gold, ultimately leading to the establishment of Johannesburg.

• Grasses identification course on Saturday, April 9 @ 09:00 – Join Karin Spottiswoode on a grasses identification course in Kloofendal Nature Reserve. Includes course training material.
• Spider Nature Explorer Book Launch on Saturday, April 9 @ noon – Jonathan Leeming will be launching his new Spider Nature Explorer and will be giving a short presentation on the importance of developing the next generation of conservationists, responsible leadership and the role of FroK in educating the next generation.
• Spider and Scorpion Identification course on Saturday, April 9 @ 13:00 – A practical three-hour spider and scorpion identification course that includes outdoor lectures, 60-page spider and scorpion Grade and Certificate. Presented by Jonathan Leeming.
• Birding on Sunday, April 10 @ 07:00 – Kloofendal is a hotspot for a large number of bird species. Join one of the Kloofendal birding guides on an exploration of Kloofendal Nature Reserve.
• Goudmyntoer op Sondag, 24 April om 14:00 – Ontdek alles van die outydse goudgrawers en hoe Johannesburg begin het. Die Confidence Rif is die eerste goudmyn in Johannesburg.

• Almal welkom by Bybeltoespraak
Dit is amper tyd vir die belangrikste geleentheid van die jaar! Willem Teessen het dit so verduidelik: “Toe Jesus Christus sy lewe vir ons opgeoffer het, was dit inderdaad die grootste liefdesdaad wat ooit betoon is. Dit kan ewige voordele vir ons beteken. Hoe dankbaar is ons tog vir wat God en Christus vir ons gedoen het. Almal word hartlik uitgenooi om saam met ons as Jehovah se Getuies Vrydag 15 April 2022 bymekaar te kom om Jesus se dood te herdenk. U word ook uitgenooi na ‘n spesiale Bybeltoespraak wat omtrent ‘n week vroeër wêreldwyd gehou sal word met die tema: “Waar kan jy ware hoop vind?” Die hoop wat die Bybel gee, wat deur Jesus se losprysoffer moontlik gemaak word, sal in hierdie 30-minute toespraak bespreek word. In Randfontein sal die Afrikaanse toespraak Sondag 10 April om 08:45 plaasvind. Hierdie geleenthede sal beide in persoon en deur Zoom-videoverbinding plaasvind.” Vir meer besonderhede hoe om dit by te woon, skakel of WhatsApp 078 553 4376. Besoek ook gerus www.jw.org/af.

• The Absa RUN YOUR CITY (RYC) Series’ 3rd Strava Challenge
The Absa RUN YOUR CITY (RYC) Series is inviting runners to take part in one of its ‘tougher’ Strava Challenges – the RUN.CLIMB.RUN Challenge – on Sunday, April 3. It’s good to get out of one’s comfort zone. The good news is that this challenge does not require speed; slow and steady can also win the race. Runners will need to complete the challenge any time between 05:00 to 23:00 on Sunday. They can also run any distance. The event organisers are looking for the runner who clocks the most amount of climbing, irrespective of the distance run. Click here [https://www.stillwatersports.com/event/absa-run-your-city-cape-town-10k/] for more information.

• Randfontein Youth Rugby Club Open Day
Be part of the Teine team during an Open Day for the Randfontein Youth Rugby Club on Wednesday, April 6 from 18:00. All U/6s to U/18s are welcome. Pre-season training includes ball handling, fitness, kicking and tackling. For more information contact Riaan on 083 640 7070.

• Markdag deur Betesda Bedieninge
Hou Saterdag, 9 April oop vir ‘n Markdag deur Betesda Bedieninge op die hoek van Main Reef- en Battery Reefweg in Randfontein. Daar sal iets vir almal wees, onder andere sangers wat optree, kos, springkastele, tuisgebak, pannekoek, lekkergoed, speelgoed en handwerk. Kontak Nita by 061 083 5470 of 084 458 2151 vir meer inligting.

• Upcoming U3A West Rand events
Are you retired or semi-retired and looking for something stimulating and affordable to do? If so, then join The University of the 3rd Age (U3A).
Tuesday, April 12 – The monthly meeting of the U3A West Rand will take place at The Church of the Ascension on Red Thorn Street, Rangeview at 09:30. All retirees welcome and bring some friends. Come and enjoy a cup of tea and biscuits before the talk. Rod Kruger will speak on the history of the West Rand and the discovery of gold. There are no membership fees payable for 2022.
Wednesday, April 20 – Outing to Midrand where they will visit the farm Pico Gro where they grow all sort of edible flowers and micro greens in greenhouses. There will be a tour through the greenhouses. On the way home they will stop at Herbland for lunch, which in itself is something to experience. Come and join them for a day away from the city! Phone or WhatsApp Marthie Coetzer on 083 297 9565 for bookings.

• Bruce Springsteen Tribute show at Silverstar
Jack Stone will be hosting his Bruce Springsteen Tribute show at selected venues all over South Africa during April. Don’t miss the show when it comes to the West Rand at Silverstar’s Barnyard in Krugersdorp on Saturday, April 2.
A homage to the great patriot
From the glory days of Dancing In The Dark to the Streets Of Philadelphia, from the spirit of Blood Brothers that stand together while singing Fire from the top of their lungs, comes the story of the great patriot who stood up for the blue-collar and the right from the wrong. This is a homage to The Boss, the influence he was to many, and the hero to the average man on the street who heard the message … Dream Baby Dream – a story that local charting artist Jack Stone completely relates to in more ways than it might seem. Not only did the songs of Bruce Springsteen influence the sound of his debut album (Walk On), it is also the catalyst that grew his love for music at a young age. A journey of growth, behind-the-scenes moments of each song, and the heartbeat of every emotion relate to years of musical infatuation and creation of vision and sound for singer-songwriter Jack Stone, and oh does he present it well. You can expect an all-original take on the music of hope, the songs of Bruce Springsteen, and a little bit of ‘Did You Know Facts’ about The Boss. Once called South Africa’s very own Bruce Springsteen by the owner and radio personality of Zone Radio (The Unicorn), has become a reality in this soulful yet on fire showcase of the songs of Bruce Springsteen.

• The Bell of Hope charity ride for mental wellness
Ebenezer Psychiatric Home is proud to announce that they are hosting their Bell of Hope Charity Ride for Mental Wellness again this year. Ebenezer House is a licensed non-profit organisation (NPO 088 960) taking care of fully functional adults suffering from bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. They depend on donations and assistance from the public and corporate sectors to keep the home open and functional. Every year they host a charity road cycle event, the Bell of Hope Charity Ride for Mental Wellness, in the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site. The proceeds of this event go towards sustaining Ebenezer Psychiatric Home in Witpoortjie, Roodepoort. The Charity Ride will be held on Sunday, June 5 at Valverde Eco Hotel in the Cradle of Humankind. Starting times: 07:00 for 50km at R220 per cyclist; 07:30 for 15km at R150 per cyclist; and on the day R250 per cyclist. You can enter at Cycle Events at www.cycleevents.co.za, and for more information, contact their office on 011 955 6595 or email to bellofhopecycle@gmail.com.

• Magalies Monster and Platinum Trail Run 2022
Entries are open for the 2022 Fedhealth Magalies Monster MTB Classic on Saturday June 4, and the Fedhealth Platinum Trail Run on Sunday June 5 that will take place at the ATKV Buffelspoort in the North West province. This is the perfect weekend getaway for adventure-seeking families. Both events boast routes that incorporate the best trails on offer in the Magaliesberg. Irrespective of the distance entered, mountain bikers and trail runners can expect an exciting on-route challenge. Both events also feature a 2,5km distance for junior adventure-seekers. Families can look forward to spending the entire weekend outdoors celebrating health and wellness. For more information and/ or to enter the Fedhealth Magalies Monster MTB Classic or the Fedhealth Platinum Trail Run visit www.stillwatersports.com or email entries@stillwatersports.com.

• Silverstar’s Pop-up Market
A weekend on the Square at Silverstar is all about enjoying a little shopping at their pop-up market, a delicious meal with family and friends at any of the variety of restaurants, while the live music of local talent fills the air. Find everything from arts, crafts, decor and fashion to toys, eats and treats. There is something for everyone at the Silverstar Pop-up Market. Free entry. Visit their website https://www.silverstar.co.za/whatson/events/pop-up-market/ for more information.

Movies not to miss!

• THE CONTRACTOR – From March 18
Chris Pine stars in this action-packed thriller as Special Forces Sergeant James Harper, who is involuntarily discharged from the Army and cut-off from his pension. In debt, out of options and desperate to provide for his family, Harper contracts with a private underground military force. When the very first assignment goes awry, the elite soldier finds himself caught in a dangerous conspiracy and on the run for his life. Also starring Kiefer Sutherland, Ben Foster, Gillian Jacobs and Eddie Marsan.

• C’MON, C’MON – From March 25
Joaquin Phoenix plays Johnny, a kind-hearted radio journalist deep into a project in which he interviews children across the US about our world’s uncertain future. His sister, Viv (Gaby Hoffman), asks him to watch her eight-year-old son, Jesse (Woody Norman), while she tends to the child’s father, who’s suffering from mental health issues. After agreeing, Johnny finds himself connecting with his nephew in ways he hadn’t expected, ultimately taking Jesse with him on a journey from Los Angeles to New York to New Orleans. Anchored by three remarkable actors, C’mon C’mon is a gentle yet impeccably crafted drama about coming to terms with personal trauma and historical legacies.

• FANTASTIC BEASTS: THE SECRET OF DUMBLEDORE – From April 15
Professor Albus Dumbledore (Jude Law) knows the powerful Dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald (Mads Mikkelsen) is moving to seize control of the wizarding world. Unable to stop him alone, he entrusts Magizoologist Newt Scamander (Eddie Redmayne) to lead an intrepid team of wizards, witches and one brave Muggle baker on a dangerous mission, where they encounter old and new beasts and clash with Grindelwald’s growing legion of followers. But with the stakes so high, how long can Dumbledore remain on the sidelines?

• UNBEARABLE WEIGHT OF MASSIVE TALENT – From April 22
Nicolas Cage stars as … Nick Cage in the action-comedy The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent. Creatively unfulfilled and facing financial ruin, the fictionalised version of Cage must accept a $1 million offer to attend the birthday of a dangerous superfan (Pedro Pascal). Things take a wildly unexpected turn when Cage is recruited by a CIA operative (Tiffany Haddish) and forced to live up to his own legend, channelling his most iconic and beloved on-screen characters in order to save himself and his loved ones. With a career built for this very moment, the seminal award-winning actor must take on the role of a lifetime: Nick Cage

• MEMORY – From April 29
Alex Lewis (Liam Neeson) is an expert assassin with a reputation for discreet precision. Caught in a moral quagmire, Alex refuses to complete a job that violates his code and must quickly hunt down and kill the people who hired him before they and FBI agent Vincent Serra (Guy Pearce) find him first. Alex is built for revenge but, with a memory that is beginning to falter, he is forced to question his every action, blurring the line between right and wrong.

• Source: Empire Entertainment