fred's bush telegraph sounds the drum Dear Friends of Bushmans Kloof, It's the height of summer and I'm reporting from the lodge, where we are averaging temperatures in the high 30's and even 40 degrees Celsius. The lodge is chock-a-block, and here at midday, many of our guests are lounging in cool shade, taking rejuvenating dips in the pools, and enjoying our signature beverage - chilled iced Rooibos tea READ MORE Typical of the Fynbos Biome's 'Mediterranean climate', Bushmans Kloof is undergoing its normal dry spell this time of the year. Our guests are experiencing exceptional animal sightings as many large fauna make their way from the hills in the Northern and North-Eastern parts of the reserve, to our three large dams. One of these prominent species is the Gemsbok, which is almost entirely independent of standing water, and always provides a rnagnificent sight here in its natural habitat. READ MORE Summer has also brought with it many of Nature's true wonders and miracles: newborn Springbok lambs making their debut READ MORE and the beauty of Agapanthus in full bloom READ MORE And talking about conservation, I was very proud to swop my khaki bush gear for a formal dinner suit to represent Bushmans Kloof at the recent glittering Relais & Chãteaux awards that was held in Monaco in November 2006, where Bushmans Kloof received the coveted Environment Trophy 2007 for its outstanding conservation achievements. READ MORE We are excited to bring you news of plans to renovate a glorious traditional farmhouse on the reserve to create a private wilderness experience as an all-year round venue. That will provide exclusive accommodation to a family with children or couples travelling together. READ MORE Nothing gives me greater pleasure than receiving and reading your feedback - especially when you mention our 'warm and friendly team the highlight of your stay! lf I can single out an achievement above all our other wonderful accolades, it is seeing our waitress, chefs, guides, bar tenders, gardeners and housekeepers grow in poise and confidence every day. My gratitude must also go to the managers who dedicate enormous amounts of time - training, nurturing and centering their staff. We share the view that training and restoring is not just philanthropy, it's an essential strategy. Natalie Wolf, Marketing Assistant of Bushmans Kloof was one of six overjoyed Bushmans Kloof employees who recently jetted out to London to attend the Annual Staff Appreciation Ball of sister hotel group Red Carnation. In recognition of their outstanding service to Bushmans Kloof, our deserving young people were guests at the glamorous ball held at the Hilton Hotel on Park Lane. Natalie relays the experience with much aplomb READ MORE In closure, I would like to thank all our loyal and supportive sales agents, guests and everyone who has become a friend of Bushmans Kloof for helping us turn the Bushmans Kloof dream into a reality.I cannot begin to describe what an amazingly positive influence you have on this often forgotten corner of our beautiful country. We look forward to your return - there's a very sincere warm and friendly smile waiting to welcome you back here. Have a look at our upcoming special events and Winter offers to experience Bushmans Kloof differently - with greenery stretching as far as the eye can see, raging rivers rushing past the lodge, and crackling log fires providing a sanctuary from the cold. Hard to imagine, but Winter will be here sooner than you think! READ MORE Best regards, Fred Stow General Manager