About Us

History

Roselands farm, one of the original homesteads of the Byrne Settlers, is steeped in history. This 1150 hectare farm lies in the heart of the Midlands, in an area called the Hella- Hella which overlooks the Umkomaas River.It has belonged to the same Nicholson family for nearly 160 years.

Nature Reserve

Originally chosen as one of the National Heritage Sites in the country, Roselands is blessed with stunning scenery, indigenous bush and waterfalls. It is home to the endangered Blue Swallow, Oribi and the Hilton Daisy. There are some 200 bird species, as well as numerous buck and other wildlife in the area – hence its status now as an official Nature Reserve. Due to varying altitudes on the farm, there are extreme differences in vegetation, from thornveld to evergreen forest….Roselands Nature Reserve is a feast for anyone wanting to experience the breathtaking beauty of our environment.

Roselands Trust 056-016-NPO PBO 930020334

Established in 2006, the Roselands Trust, a Sec 18 A non-profit registered organization, has raised funds to sponsor vulnerable children in poverty and abuse- stricken communities in and around Richmond KZN.

Staff Profiles

Roselands Outdoor Centre’s heart is to provide a homely environment and genuine care for each individual that passes its way. The Nicholsons are actively involved in the Centre, ensuring that the venue’s ambiance is maintained and their original vision “to share Gods creation” remains the main focus of the Centre.

Hazel Hosking, a qualified teacher from the area has been running educational excursions at the Centre for 19 years. She is passionate about “growing” young people and is very much involved in devising programmes that nurture the individual child.

Nathan Bam, an inspirational role model for all who pass through the Centre, heads up the staff and motivates all with his passion and enthusiasm.

Wanda Zondi, our senior facilitator  has a special gift in relating to troubled youngsters.  He continues to guide and nurture our new leaders.  We have as many as 15 young adults helping us at times, several who have been with us over the last few years.

Paulus Mbanjwa, a valued member of our staff, whose workshop on the bushman culture is a priority on many schools’ agendas, has been with us well over 10 years now.

Louise Smit and her staff, many who have worked in the kitchen for years, have a reputation for providing excellent wholesome meals, catering for the various special dietary requests we receive with aplomb.

Nicola Cooke, the admin foondie who does all the behind the scenes work, from liasing with schools to programme co-ordination. She has a passion for education and NGO work and is active in making a change in young people's lives.

FAQs

1. What are the rates for a group to stay at Roselands Outdoor Centre?

   Prices vary depending on the nature of activities, group sizes and number of meals required. Please contact us for rates applicable to your requirements.

2. Does Roseland’s cater for special food requirements?

   Yes, we ensure that all special diets are catered for, and that the food is sourced from accredited retailers.

3. Is it possible to self-cater at Roselands?

   Regrettably we do not offer self-catering.

4. Can we come to view the premises and facilities beforehand?

   Yes, all groups are very welcome to visit the premises before booking a camp, kindly inform us in advance so we can be on hand to show you around.

5. Who actually runs the programmes?

   With school groups, the programme coordinators are trained teachers and the facilitators have been handpicked and trained accordingly. Facilitators are available on request to help with church or other groups.

6. What is the staff ratio?

   1 facilitator to 8 learners.

7. How do we go about booking a camp at Roselands?

   We encourage booking up to one year in advance, as our calendar fills up relatively quickly, contact us on the enquiry form provided or phone general enquiries.

   Booking Form

8. What should each learner bring to Roselands?

   • Sleeping bag and pillow/ duvet/ comforter
   • Extra blankets in winter
   • Tracksuit/ jeans/ jersey
   • Casual wear (shorts and shirts)
   • Costume and towel
   • Hat and sunscreen
   • 2 pairs of walking shoes
   • Waterproof garment/ raincoat
   • Torch
   • Toiletries
   • Plastic bag for muddy clothes
   • Cutlery and crockery (plate, bowl, knife, fork, spoon, mug)
   • Own allergy medication if required

9. What kind of clothes should the learners bring?

   Learners are encouraged to bring old, comfortable clothes that they can move around in and don’t mind getting dirty. Warm clothes and a waterproof jacket are also essential, as Roselands can get chilly in the evenings, and in winter.

10. What bedding is provided and what bedding is required?

    Roselands provides each camper with a clean sheet for their bed, but a sleeping bag, duvet or comforter is to be brought by the camper as well as their own pillow. Bedding is provided for staff.

11. Is there a tuck shop available?

    A small tuck shop is available for cool drinks and snacks, it is not essential for learners to bring money for the tuck shop, but time is set aside for those who wish to buy something from it. 

    Our tuck shop also sells jams and honey when in season as well as bows and arrows from the bushman, and unique bottles of coloured sand.

12. Is there cell phone reception at Roselands?

    There is limited cell phone reception at Roselands farm. We would prefer the learners to leave cell phones at home as the focal point of the camp is to interact with others and cell phones hinder this process.