Bonsai association’s open day takes firm root in Mbombela

The Bonsai Regional Association of Transvaal (BRAT) held its annual open day in the Lowveld on July 29, hosted by the Nelspruit Bonsai Kai for the first time.
The open day was held at The Shed at Mbombela Stadium.

With six people from the Suikerbos Kai in Heidelberg and three from the Pretoria Kai, the event’s programme was jam-packed with interesting and informative talks and discussions surrounding bonsai as well as demos. The highlight of the day was the judging of the BRAT’s members’ trees and the prize-giving.
The day also included a raffle, tea and refreshments, and the club’s AGM. It ended off with a bring and braai for its members.

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BRAT’s president, Francois van As, said it was an historical event for the Lowveld, as it was the first time it was being hosted in Mbombela. He said BRAT has three open days a year, the first being in April, the second in July and the last in September.
“It was a very good day for all who attended, especially the members from Gauteng who love the Lowveld’s warm winter weather. The trees on show were of extremely high quality and very impressive,” he said.

Van As encouraged lovers of nature and art to join the club.
“It is a form of natural art, so people who have a love of both nature and art will enjoy being a part of the club. It is not costly and can be very therapeutic. The club has a wonderful community filled with friendly people who are very knowledgeable about bonsai and are always willing to help one another and offer advice,” Van As said.