TRP News 01/09/2025

VALUE OF THE MONTH FOR SEPTEMBER

To Recognise, Reward and Uplift

PRIMROSE HOUSE

Human Resources

We would like to begin by extending our gratitude to everyone who took part in the recent Employee Engagement Survey. The results are now available to each property’s HR team, who will share them accordingly. A special congratulations goes to Birkenhead House and La Residence for achieving high completion rates. We also want to remind everyone that the survey is completely anonymous on Connecteam. If you have any doubts, please reach out to your HR representative, who can show you exactly how the data is collected and shared.

Turning to policy updates, the Uniform and Dress Code Policy has recently been refreshed. For those with a TRP email address, this and all other policies are available on the TRP Hub. For all other staff, every policy is stored on Connecteam under the Communication channel in the Knowledge Hub. Please make time to read through the policies, and if you have any questions, your HR team will gladly assist.

Looking ahead to September, our training focus will be on personal finance and future financial planning. Please reach out to your property HR should you not already have a link to join the sessions.

Marketing

We are pleased to share some exciting updates from the Marketing team. Over the past month, we have launched a number of new mailers and campaigns. A dedicated focus on private residences in Hermanus has generated strong interest and enquiries, supported by new photography and collateral, all showcased on our refreshed website section for villas and residences.

A new toolkit mailer for Masiya’s Camp is also being sent to the trade, designed to make it simple for them to access fact sheets, high-resolution images, offers, and STO rates, along with a powerful new video telling the story behind the camp’s name.

At Royal Malewane, beautifully designed maps have been produced for both guests and guides, while a new postcard initiative will soon allow guests to take home a personalised keepsake of their stay.

At The Silo Hotel, we have been hard at work with the spa team on a new menu, a corporate wellness offering, and an upcoming online booking system to make reservations seamless. The Wisdom Room has also been updated with refreshed décor and new photography, now available on the website and in the link library.

We are also ensuring consistency with our partners at Leading Hotels of the World by co-branding materials such as business cards in line with their guidelines, giving our team the chance to proudly display this global affiliation.

Meanwhile, new blogs are being published to highlight unique stories across the portfolio, including a special feature on Hermanus’ iconic whale crier, adding depth and character to our storytelling.

Digital enhancements have continued with Dineplan, upgrading the look and feel of booking confirmations and feedback emails with new imagery. Once the rooftop refurbishment and bar updates at The Silo Hotel are complete, fresh photography will follow.

From a PR perspective, our properties continue to receive significant coverage in both local and international publications, from Vanity Fair to House & Garden, while social media engagement has grown by over forty percent month on month, reflecting the power of our content and community.

As always, Lourenco Afonso (Wildlife Photographer and Content Creator), has produced some beautiful images over the past few weeks and will continue to capture the Western Cape properties with some photoshoots scheduled over the next week.

Finally, we are delighted to share a deeply moving new video on the story of Wilson Masiya, beautifully narrated by Ringo Chauke (Apprentice Ranger) from Royal Malewane. This heartfelt film not only honours Wilson’s journey but also captures the inspiration behind Masiya’s Camp.

Sales

The sales team has had an exceptionally busy and productive few weeks, representing TRP with great energy at home and abroad. Nigel Pace (Executive Head of Sales) and Werner Krause (Sales Manager - US) spent time in the United States meeting agents in North Carolina and Tennessee before heading to the highly anticipated Virtuoso Travel Week in Las Vegas. The event began with “Globe Trotting,” where the team showcased striking visuals of Masiya’s Camp alongside beautifully designed chair slip covers and an engaging video featuring Rita Nantongo (Breakfast Manager) and The Silo Hotel. The presentations were extremely well received, and the week proved to be both meaningful and successful. A highlight was hearing from Will Guidara, author of Unreasonable Hospitality, who delivered a keynote that left a lasting impression.

The team also participated in the Africa Lunch, where Nigel shared a speech and connected with key partners while Simon Mandy (Managing Director) and Matt Biden (Chief Executive Officer) continued building relationships on the sidelines.

At the same time, Hoon Kim (Sales Manager - Asia Pacific) was busy hosting the Taiwan Vogue group across our properties. Their experience received outstanding feedback and will no doubt help to further strengthen this important market.

PROPERTIES UPDATE

Birkenhead House

This past month has been filled with meaningful moments, fresh improvements, and plenty of teamwork at Birkenhead House. We were proud to see our values reflected in the guest feedback, with special recognition going to various employees for creating such memorable experiences. It’s a reminder of the impact each team member has in bringing our Vision, Purpose and Values to life every day.

In celebration of Women’s Month, Shane Brummer (General Manager) surprised all the ladies with roses and cupcakes, and instead of the usual seaside backdrop, the team captured a beautiful group photo inside the Dome, a lovely touch to mark the occasion.

On the improvement front, Room 5 has undergone a complete transformation. The removal of the cement base has opened the space dramatically, while new mirrors, fresh tiling in the bathroom, and striking red tiles in the pool have elevated its look. The private pool area is also being redesigned as a lush garden oasis for added privacy and charm, while new shutters across the house have given the interiors a refreshed feel.

Development and training have been front of mind, with the team engaging in product knowledge sessions on Babor treatments and learning experiences at a sustainable Abalone farm. A tea service training reignited passion for this timeless ritual, with staff embracing the details of timing and presentation.

Cross-property visits between The Silo Hotel, La Residence, and Birkenhead House gave staff valuable insights into the consistent service levels across The Royal Portfolio.

While inspections of whale-watching and horse-riding providers ensured that only the best guest experiences are offered.

We also partnered with Abalobi to learn more about their “Fish With a Story” platform, which supports small-scale, sustainable fishing and allows us to share meaningful narratives behind the dishes we serve.

Social responsibility remains close to our hearts. The team continued its twice-monthly support at the local night shelter, this time joined by the McAdam family, who lent a hand in the kitchen. Conservation lessons were also shared with children from Just Care, who spent a week with us learning about the environment in fun and interactive ways.

Culture and camaraderie have been equally important. Clive Biggs (Head Chef) and his team proudly took part in the Clash of the Chefs charity competition, earning second place with a dish that featured mussels handpicked from the ocean right in front of the property. The team also joined together for a beach clean-up, removing a significant amount of litter, while lighter activities included group stretches before afternoon shifts, a simple but energising way to start the day.

Finally, we are delighted to celebrate our shining stars, Zuki Demesha (Handyman), named Employee of the Month for July, and Phatheka Salmani (Housekeeper), honoured in August. Both have gone above and beyond in delivering for our guests, and we thank them for their dedication and spirit.

The Silo Hotel

Guest feedback continues to remind us of what sets us apart: our people. Time and again, our visitors highlight the warmth, attentiveness, and service delivered by the team, and we extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone for the dedication that makes such a lasting impression.

Employee engagement has also been in full swing. The cross-property site inspections have been invaluable in broadening perspectives, while the Front Office team enjoyed a memorable helicopter ride and team-building activities with Leon du Toit (Coach). These shared experiences build connection and energy across the departments.

On the development front, our chefs, food and beverage, and concierge teams participated in the launch of the Inter Hotel Challenge in early August. This exciting competition will continue in the months ahead, with further training sessions before the finals in October. We wish all our representatives the very best as they prepare.

Women’s Day was celebrated with spirit, both within the hotel and in the wider community. A group from The Silo Hotel proudly took part in the Totalsports Women’s Race on the 9th of August, contributing to charities supported by the event. At the hotel, thoughtful gifts were prepared for all the women on shift, adding a personal touch to mark the occasion.

In keeping with our value of the month, to Recognise, Reward, and Uplift, we would like to acknowledge two outstanding team members. Nixon Mutero (Barmen) was recognised for his consistent willingness to assist and for always going the extra mile to deliver exceptional service.

La Residence

August was a month filled with milestones, celebrations, and meaningful moments at La Residence. We were honoured to welcome the Gupta family back as repeat guests, where they enjoyed a special Chef’s Table with Granville Riffel (Terrace Chef). To make the occasion even more memorable, the team created personalised aprons as keepsakes, and for our vegan guest, the kitchen crafted homemade cookies beautifully packaged in a glass jar with a handwritten label. These small details reflect the care and thought that define every guest experience.

A highlight for the team was being awarded the coveted Five-Star Premium rating, with a remarkable 100% score from the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa, the first in the assessor’s career. This achievement is a testament to the extraordinary dedication of every team member, and we couldn’t be prouder.

Our commitment to team connection and engagement continued with memorable activities. We were delighted to host the HR team for a team-building weekend, while Women’s Month was celebrated with a heartfelt lunch, inspiring talks, and special gifts that brought both laughter and a few happy tears. In addition, new staff had the opportunity to visit our other TRP properties, gaining valuable insights into operations across the company. The team also enhanced their expertise through afternoon tea training, pairing beautiful loose-leaf teas with delicate sweet treats to prepare for the season ahead.

Innovation and continuous improvement were at the forefront this month. Guests delighted in the launch of nostalgic lollipop jars for families, while custom-made baskets were introduced for Tango and Twist, creating a unique guest activity. Our wine cellar was reorganised with custom signage, complemented by a striking chandelier, and new pool loungers now enhance the terrace rooms.

Our commitment to community and sustainability remains strong. We partnered with Wes Eind Primary School to sponsor new uniforms, Byron van der Valk (Duty Manager) hosted the local Hospitality Academy to inspire future professionals, and one generous guest donated a large box of stationery for local learners. These contributions bring pride and opportunity to our community.

Financially, August was a record-breaking month, with operating revenue increasing by 29% year-on-year and the boutique surpassing R500 000 in sales for the first time, a true reflection of both guest enthusiasm and the team’s sales expertise.

Our culture continues to thrive through weekly Friday gatherings, fondly called “Culture Cartel.” Staff come together to play games, celebrate each other, and nominate a Culture Champion who is recognised with messages of appreciation and a surprise breakfast. This tradition strengthens bonds and ensures we close the week on a high note.

Finally, a special thank you goes to our farm team, who transformed the towering trees at Vineyard Suite 5 into a neatly trimmed fence, opening up breathtaking views of the Simonsberg Mountains and unforgettable sunsets for our guests. Their hard work is a reminder that every detail matters in creating magical experiences.

With smiling arrivals, heartfelt teamwork, and a spirit of excellence, August was truly a month to remember at La Residence.

Royal Malewane

Malewane Lodge

At Malewane, guest feedback continues to affirm the exceptional experiences our teams create. Africa House recently received glowing praise, with guests expressing how delighted they were by both the property itself and the warmth of the staff who made their stay so memorable.

Our focus on wellness extended beyond our guests this month, as we hosted a dedicated Wellness Week for staff. Rolene Erasmus, a chiropractor, shared valuable advice on posture and preventing back strain in daily tasks, while Fancy Maaroganye (Head Spa Therapist), led morning and afternoon yoga sessions. Team members also joined Waterside’s fun run, and the week concluded with a lively burpee challenge in the dining area ! Discovery Health was also on site to provide wellness checks, ensuring the week left everyone feeling healthier, more energised, and connected.

Professional development remains a cornerstone of our success. We are incredibly proud of our Trackers, Patrick Moyane, Herman Ndlovu, and Mumps Mothonsi, who achieved their Senior Tracker certificates, outstanding accomplishments that highlight the skill and dedication of our guiding team.

Innovation is also shaping the guest experience, with the reimagination of Rooms 7 and 8 now underway. Contractors have begun work, and we look forward to unveiling the transformation of Royal Suite 8 and Room 7 later this year.

Our community partnerships continue to thrive. A refurbished container was recently delivered to Langutelani, offering much-needed storage and protection for supplies. This small addition will make a meaningful difference to the school’s day-to-day operations and reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting local initiatives.

Finally, our culture corner remains a source of joy and connection. The latest issue of Bush Banter was published, now on a bi-monthly schedule, keeping everyone informed and inspired. And thanks to Ruth Khumalo’s (Executive Housekeeper) wonderful organisation, the team came together in the entrance area to recite the Vision, Purpose and Values.

The Farmstead

It has been a vibrant and memorable month at Farmstead, with back-to-back bookings and plenty of families filling the lodge with energy and joy. One couple visiting from Japan shared that they had never experienced anything like their stay with us and were completely blown away by the warmth and hospitality they received. Guests were so delighted that many have stayed in touch afterwards, even sending through their holiday photos as a way of saying thank you.

Adding to the magic, Felly Yumba (Senior Duty Manager) and Renesa Chiloane (Waiter) hosted a “make your own cocktail” experience by the pool, which quickly became a highlight of the month.

In celebration of Women’s Day, the team surprised the ladies with pink Rice Krispie treats and motivational notes, creating a thoughtful and uplifting moment for everyone. Chef Kelebogile Tsenoli (Head Chef) also spent time at The Silo Hotel, Birkenhead House and Chef’s Warehouse in Cape Town, returning inspired and eager to bring fresh ideas back to Farmstead.

On the development side, Farmstead has been looking more beautiful than ever thanks to the work of the styles and standards team. Dining room chairs were refreshed with new fabrics, the outdoor lounge area was elevated with cushions and swing chairs, and guest rooms received elegant updates to beds and soft furnishings. These thoughtful touches have made the property feel even more welcoming and refined.

Innovation continues to thrive as well. The maintenance team helped create a spring day photo booth from reclaimed wood, soon to be featured in next month’s updates, and introduced a clever system to repurpose excess water from the ice machine to keep pot plants thriving.

Staff have also been kitted out with refreshed uniforms, stylish dresses for the ladies and new shirts for the housemen, ensuring the whole team is dressed for excellence.

And of course, the wildlife around Farmstead continues to surprise and delight. The four resident buffalo bulls have become part of the family, while herds of elephants and giraffes have been frequent visitors. The highlight of the month, however, came from the night cameras, which captured a hippo happily rolling in the farmstead pond for hours, a playful reminder of the incredible natural world we are privileged to share with our guests.

Waterside Lodge

It has been a lively and heartwarming month at Waterside, marked by special guests, meaningful connections, and plenty of team spirit. One of the highlights was welcoming nine remarkable women from the White Fox Boutique, who joined us for a four-night stay. Their visit was filled with laughter, dancing, and unforgettable experiences, including a magical bush dinner where everyone joined in to celebrate beneath the stars. Saying goodbye was emotional, with hugs, tears, and heartfelt words of thanks that reminded us why we do what we do.

With a focus on wellness, we also led a creative smoothie workshop using natural bush ingredients like baobab fruit and buffalo tree leaves, showing us how health and sustainability go hand in hand. The team also enjoyed a walk outside the reserve to stay active, followed by prizes of spa treatments for the lucky draw winners, while Women’s Month was marked with gifts of chocolate and smiles all around. A psychologist also joined us for a mental wellness session, giving the team valuable tools for balance and wellbeing.

Development was another source of pride this month. Congratulations to our trackers, Chriswell Khoza, as he qualifies as a Senior Tracker and John Motubatse, as he becomes a Track & Sign Specialist, an incredible achievement that reflects their skill and dedication. The team also received smart new uniforms, with “Pink Mondays” quickly becoming a favourite tradition. Refreshed dining chairs, newly painted interiors, and a brighter, more welcoming dining space have given Waterside House a fresh new look and feel.

Social responsibility remained close to our hearts. The team supported neighboring properties by removing invasive snails, while others participated in the Timbavati Traverse, an annual event raising funds and awareness for rhino conservation. Tammy Lapping (HR Generalist) completed the 21km run, guided by Nicola Bargiacchi (Deputy Head Guide), and Riaan Beeslaar (Maintenance Manager) joined as a back-up for the walk, showing our commitment both inside and outside the lodge.

Finally, in keeping with our value of the month for August, we continued to find thoughtful ways to create memorable guest experiences. From celebrating a guest’s birthday at breakfast to capturing moments with personalised postcards and messages, every detail was designed to make our guests feel truly special. We even joined together for a joyful V, P & V shout at the Baobab suite, a fitting end to a month filled with energy, connection, and care.

Masiya's Camp

It has been another uplifting month at Masiya’s Camp, where guest experiences and team spirit continue to shine. A new spotting scope on the deck has quickly become a favourite among visitors, who have been full of praise and positive feedback. One special highlight was welcoming our very first child guest, who took his role of feeding the fish very seriously and left with his family delighted by their stay.

Guests have even been sending through their own photos, capturing the vivid colors and beauty of camp life. A particularly moving moment came through Instagram, where a travel partner described their stay as more than hospitality, calling it “a homecoming” and a reminder that true journeys are defined by how people make you feel.

The team has also embraced a refreshed look, with uniforms in shades of pink to match our tents, adding both style and spirit to our daily work.

Innovation and resourcefulness continue to thrive behind the scenes, with the maintenance team transforming the garage into an efficient storage area, building custom shoe racks, and designing shepherd’s hooks themselves, saving costs while elevating the guest experience.

Even the simple act of drying warrior branches to use as natural fire starters reflects the creative thinking that runs through every part of camp life.

Recognition and appreciation have been front and center in our culture this month. Teaman Mathebula and Praise Ngwenyama, two energetic young housemen, have been applauded for their excellent contributions, while Ruth Khumalo (Executive Housekeeper) graciously shared her expertise on fireplace care with our team. Chefs Rudolph Potgieter (Head Chef) and Kholo Boshomane (Senior Sous Chef) have worked tirelessly, showing resilience and dedication through an especially busy period. Casper Nyathi (Groundsmen), the newest addition to the team, has taken on the responsibility of keeping all 45 pathway lamps spotless, a detail that brings so much magic to our evenings.

We also bid farewell to Ray Meyer (Senior Duty Manager) in a heartfelt celebration, where the maintenance team presented him with a handcrafted model of our iconic pink and white pergola. True to form, the gesture brought him to tears. Wonder Mlambo (Senior Barman) was recognised for his outstanding commitment, choosing to extend his time at camp to support the team during a demanding stretch. These moments of recognition remind us that while the setting is extraordinary, it is the people who make Masiya’s Camp truly unforgettable.

FOUNDATION UPDATE

It has been an inspiring and eventful month at the Conservation and Research Centre, with several highlights that showcase both the dedication of the team and the importance of our partnerships. For the first time, the CRC team successfully ran conservation lessons entirely on their own, without outside facilitators. The sessions included topics such as the introduction to conservation, ecosystems, birds, snakes, spiders, and the Big Five in tourism. Learners also enjoyed interactive games and activities, making the experience both fun and memorable.

On the second day, the group was treated to a game drive where they spotted four of the Big Five, followed by further lessons on rivers, pollution, and careers in conservation. Guest speakers from the canine unit and field rangers also shared their insights, inspiring the learners with stories of career paths in both hospitality and conservation.

Another highlight was the Vulture Health Project, in collaboration with researchers from the Endangered Wildlife Trust.

Over three days, seven vultures were safely captured, measured, ringed, and released after undergoing tests for blood parasites and viruses such as avian influenza and West Nile. The opportunity to release these magnificent birds back into the wild was an unforgettable moment.

The team also joined the Dyer Island Conservation Trust, a key partner in penguin conservation, for a very special penguin release. Ten chicks, rescued and rehabilitated after being found undernourished, and two adults, one injured by a fishing line, were set free into the sea at sunrise. The moment when the adults led the young penguins into the waves was both emotional and uplifting. The group also visited the lookout tower that was sponsored last year, now standing tall on Dyer Island to support the rangers in their critical work.

These projects remind us of the incredible impact that can be made through collaboration, passion, and persistence. From teaching young learners about conservation to releasing endangered species back into their natural habitats, it has been a month filled with achievements that speak to the heart of what we do.

JOB OPPORTUNITIES AT TRP

Our Careers page is the reference point for all open positions available across The Royal Portfolio group. We accept internal and external applications here, and always, internal applications are given preference.

In order to ensure your application stands out, please apply via the Careers page and let your HOD and property HR Manager know of your desire to develop yourself further.

Feel free to share the site with your industry friends and networks too, in order to help us reach a wider network of exceptional candidates.

You can click here, or scan the QR code to visit the website.

TO BE WELCOMING GENUINE AND WARM

NEW STARTERS

A very warm welcome to the following new, and in some cases, returning or transferring,

team members across The Royal Portfolio:

TO RECOGNISE, REWARD AND UPLIFT

PROMOTIONS AND TRANSFERS

Congratulations to the below staff for their hard work and for continuing to go above and beyond to ensure that we Give our Guests a Complete Experience and a Perfect Stay!

LONG SERVICE AWARDS - 5, 10, 15, 20 & 25 Years with TRP in September!

Congratulations and thank you to the following staff for their loyalty and hard work over the years:

• Estelle van der Merwe (Group HR Manager) | 20 Years on the 01st of September 2025

• Ntsiki Demesha (Handyman @ BH) | 10 Years on the 01st of September 2025

• Deborah Ndamane (Laundry Attendant @ LR) | 10 Years on the 08th of September 2025

  
  

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