02/07/2026
This year marks the end of an era. After 30 incredible years, we made the emotional decision to no longer cater at the Durban July. It wasn’t an easy choice, because this event has given us so many memories to treasure. We’ve worked alongside amazingly creative, hardworking people, shared in unforgettable moments, and been blessed by friends who stepped in to help whenever things became overwhelming.
In the early days, we worked out of Tent City in a space no bigger than three trestle tables, with one electrical plug, no running water, and just enough room to keep moving. From that tiny setup, we fed 300 guests, juggling pots, trays, and last-minute miracles in the heat and chaos of race day.
Then, about 15 years ago, everything changed when we moved into the grandstand and finally had a proper kitchen. This was a game changer, with stainless steel benches, more space to breathe, and a real base to work from, we suddenly found ourselves catering for 600 guests across nine hospitality suites.
Those years brought months of planning, endless lists, and logistics that most people never even imagined. Security, transport, crockery, cutlery, glassware, waiters, barmen, cleaners, flowers, buffet décor, coffee station, uniforms, equipment, refrigerated deliveries, vehicles, setup… and then, when the last guest had gone home, doing it all again in reverse to break everything down resulting in 18-hour days. There were aching feet, sore backs, and tired bodies—but there was also an extraordinary sense of purpose, pride, and achievement every time we pulled it off. Looking back, I feel incredibly grateful to have been part of such an iconic event.
This year, for the first time in three decades, I won’t be there. Instead, this Saturday I’ll be exactly where I want to be—at home. My feet won’t be running from kitchen to kitchen. They’ll be tucked comfortably under the kitchen counter as we cook a beautiful dinner, open a good bottle of wine, and spend precious time with friends.
After years of service, there is something deeply comforting about choosing home and I have realised that sometimes the greatest luxury isn’t being where the excitement is, it’s having the freedom to choose where your heart wants to be.
Thank you to everyone who was part of our Durban July journey. The memories will last a lifetime. ❤
