A flotilla of colourful balloons floated up into the blue winter sky over Inyoni Creek on July 11.
The residents had packed the waterfront clubhouse to enjoy the Rand Aid retirement village’s 10th birthday.
A full programme of fun ended with residents lining the wooden walkway over the village dam to release their balloons and give thanks for the beautiful village they call home.
A surprise guest was reigning Miss South Africa Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters, whose ‘adopted grandfather’ Claude Pearce is an Inyoni Creek resident.
Demi-Leigh has been visiting the village since Claude, who is part of her extended family, moved into the newly-built complex 10 years ago.
South African pianist Rocco de Villiers’ hands flew over the keys as he showed why the title of his album, Beautiful Beautiful Hymns, is so suited to his music.
In between playing classic melodies, he had the audience laughing at his quick wit and funny anecdotes.
He shared the limelight when, during one song, Claude stood up and invited Demi-Leigh to dance.
Also read: Inyoni Creek resident celebrates 90th birthday
A three-course meal was enjoyed and despite a divine apple crumble, residents found room for the specially-baked birthday cupcakes afterwards. The first residents of the village, Graham and Dawn Kemp, were present and were reminded of a time when Inyoni Creek had little grass and few plants but the residents all had more hair.
“It is a little piece of heaven amongst the turmoil of South Africa,” said MC Peter Moore.
The village has put together a desk calendar in commemoration of its anniversary. It includes photos taken over the years by Inyoni Creek residents.
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