This past year at Darling Green Country Estate has been nothing short of extraordinary. As we reflect on our achievements and milestones, it’s clear that 2024 was a year of progress, celebration, and community building. Here’s a recap of what made this year unforgettable, drawn from some of our most exciting stories and developments.
The First Ever AGM: A Momentous Occasion
The first-ever Darling Green Country Estate’s Homeowners Association AGM was hosted on the 7th of June 2024, marking a critical milestone in the development of our community. This gathering was a platform for homeowners to actively participate in shaping the future of the Estate, discussing topics ranging from infrastructure updates to community engagement initiatives. It was an opportunity for residents to voice their ideas and concerns, building a culture of collaboration and transparency. This AGM not only strengthened the bond within our growing community but also set a strong foundation for future development and shared decision-making.
Solar Power Farm: A Greener Future with SPS
One of the most groundbreaking achievements of 2024 was the installation of the first solar panel at the Estate’s solar power farm in partnership with Sustainable Power Solutions (SPS). This ambitious project is set to provide 1MW of renewable energy, first to the Estate and the balance to the Swartland Municipality in terms of a 3-year PPA, reducing dependence on non-renewable resources and ensuring a self-sufficient energy solution for residents. The installation of the first panel symbolises a bold step toward a cleaner and more sustainable future, aligning with Darling Green Country Estate’s eco-conscious vision.
Welcoming Our First Resident: A Historic Milestone
2024 marked a defining moment for Darling Green Country Estate as we proudly welcomed our very first resident. This occasion wasn’t just a step forward for the development; it was a celebration of the Estate’s vision becoming a reality. The new resident shared their joy at finding a home that balances comfort, sustainability, and Darling’s serene charm. Their excitement reflected the fulfilment of our promise to deliver not just houses, but homes that embody a sense of belonging and community.
Since that first move-in, the Estate has truly blossomed, with more families settling into their dream homes. The once-quiet streets are now filled with the sounds of neighbours connecting, creating a lively and warm atmosphere. Darling Green Country Estate has evolved into a thriving community, where shared experiences and camaraderie flourish.
This milestone is a testament to the growing appeal of the Estate’s unique offering: an ideal blend of modern living, eco-conscious design, and the tranquillity of the countryside. It’s a source of immense pride to see our vision coming to life, and we look forward to welcoming even more families in 2025 as we continue to grow our vibrant community.
A Visit from Premier Alan Winde: A Testament to Progress
A landmark moment for Darling Green Country Estate, Premier Alan Winde, leader of the Western Cape Government, visited the Estate in 2024 to witness first-hand its transformative contributions to regional growth. The visit highlighted the Estate’s alignment with the Western Cape’s strategic priorities, including environmental sustainability, economic development, and community upliftment.
Premier Winde’s tour included key facilities such as the solar power farm, emphasising the Estate’s strides in renewable energy in collaboration with Sustainable Power Solutions (SPS). He was also introduced to the Apolisvlei Wetland conservation project, which underscores the Estate’s commitment to biodiversity preservation. During discussions with Estate management, the Premier commended the community’s innovative integration of green infrastructure with residential development, showcasing Darling Green as a model for eco-conscious living.
The visit further solidified the Estate’s position as a strategic partner in fostering growth within the Darling region and beyond. By aligning with the Western Cape Government’s goals, Darling Green has attracted attention as a blueprint for balancing modern development with ecological and social responsibility. Premier Winde’s support underscored the importance of provincial backing in amplifying the Estate’s impact, affirming that collaborative efforts can set the stage for a more sustainable and inclusive future.
The Sport Club: A Hub for Community Spirit
The Darling Sport Club truly came into its own in 2024, establishing itself as a vibrant hub for fostering relationships, celebrating community achievements, and promoting active lifestyles. A standout highlight was the Darling Classic Golf Day, an event that perfectly combined the thrill of competition with the joy of camaraderie. Featuring the inspiring guest speaker, Kobus Wiese, attendees were treated to both athletic excellence and motivational storytelling, making it a day to remember.
This year also saw the launch of the Darling Equestrian Club, an exciting new addition to the Sport Club. The Equestrian Club has already made waves, offering top-tier facilities for riders and hosting activities that emphasize the beauty and skill of equestrian sports. The Darling Sport Club’s expansion into equestrian events has been a testament to its dedication to diversifying and enriching the sporting opportunities available to the community.
Another notable achievement was hosting the Darling Wildflower Show 2024, which took place at the Sports Club for the first time since 2019. This event broke attendance records, attracting over 6,000 visitors from across the globe, and showcased the region’s stunning biodiversity. With interactive exhibits, floral displays, and a vibrant community spirit, the Wildflower Show highlighted the Sport Club’s capability to host large-scale events that celebrate both nature and the Darling community.
Through these events and developments, the Darling Sport Club has cemented its role as an invaluable asset, not just for residents of the Estate, but for the entire Darling area. Its ability to evolve, expand, and bring people together is a shining example of what makes Darling Green Country Estate such a special place to live.
Sustainability Achievements: Leaving a Green Legacy
Environmental sustainability took centre stage at Darling Green Country Estate in 2024, setting new benchmarks in green living and community responsibility. A key highlight was the Estate’s partnership with Vula Environmental Services, which championed waste management initiatives and ecological awareness among residents. Their efforts in waste reduction and recycling programs have transformed daily practices, fostering a culture of accountability and care for our natural surroundings.
The Apolisvlei Wetland continued to stand as a beacon of biodiversity, with dedicated efforts to protect and enhance this vital ecosystem. Home to countless species, the wetland underscores the Estate’s commitment to ecological preservation and harmonious coexistence with nature.
Adding to these remarkable achievements was the first solar panel installation on our solar power farm, a groundbreaking step towards renewable energy in partnership with Sustainable Power Solutions (SPS). This 1MW solar power farm will not only provide sustainable energy to the community but also significantly reduce our carbon footprint. It’s an initiative that combines visionary planning with impactful action, positioning the Estate as a leader in sustainable living.
From robust environmental management practices to forward-thinking renewable energy solutions, Darling Green Country Estate is proving that sustainability isn’t just an ideal – it’s an achievable reality and a core pillar of our shared legacy.
Giving Back to the Darling Community
At Darling Green Country Estate, we believe in uplifting the community around us. This year, our participation in initiatives like the Jo-Dolphin Swartland APD Potjiekos Competition was a testament to this commitment. Not only did we bring home accolades for our culinary skills, but we also helped support a daycare centre for individuals with severe intellectual disabilities. Through events like these and continued collaboration with local businesses and organisations, Darling Green strives to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those beyond the Estate’s borders.
Oude Post Retirement Village Launching February 1st 2025
In an exciting development for 2025, we’re proud to announce the upcoming launch of the Oude Post Retirement Village, created in partnership with TOTALCARE. Construction of this state-of-the-art village will start during the first half of 2025 and first sectional title units are expected to be completed by December 2025. The Oude Post Retirement Village is designed to offer retirees a blend of comfort, care, and independence. With world-class healthcare facilities and serene surroundings, the Retirement Village represents our commitment to providing diverse lifestyle options within the Estate. This project is a beacon for those looking to enjoy their golden years in a peaceful yet connected community.
Celebrating an Incredible Year Together
To close off an extraordinary year, the team at Darling Green Country Estate gathered for an unforgettable end-of-year celebration at Ormonde Wines in Darling. The event offered a chance to reflect on 2024’s many milestones, from hosting large-scale events like the Darling Classic to launching groundbreaking sustainability projects. Set amidst the picturesque vineyards, the celebration epitomised the camaraderie and shared achievements of everyone involved. A heartfelt thanks goes to Ormonde Wines for hosting this event and making it an occasion to remember.
Things to Look Out for in 2025 on the Estate
The upcoming year promises to be just as exciting as the last, with several projects and milestones on the horizon:
- Oude Post Retirement Village: Launching on February 1st, 2025, this state-of-the-art village in partnership with TOTALCARE will offer retirees a perfect blend of independence, comfort, and world-class healthcare in the serene environment of the Estate.
- Continued Community Growth: With more families moving in, Darling Green Country Estate is set to expand its vibrant, close-knit community, offering even more opportunities for connections and shared experiences.
- Sport Club Events and Expansion: Building on the success of 2024, the Darling Sport Club will host more events, activities, and enhancements to enrich the lives of both residents and visitors.
- Solar Power Farm Progress: We are one step closer to the commencement of our 5MW solar power farm, thanks to receiving most of the necessary approvals from Eskom. However, there are still some regulatory matters that need to be resolved. Plans are underway to begin construction in mid-2025, with the goal of having the plant operational by the end of the year. This marks a major stride towards achieving sustainable energy goals and reinforcing our commitment to eco-friendly living.
Commissioning of the 1MW plant is set to take place by February 28th, 2025.
With these exciting developments on the horizon, 2025 promises to be another year of growth, innovation, and community spirit at Darling Green Country Estate. Stay tuned for more updates as we bring our vision for the future to life!
