Stimela Events - Pty Ltd

14/02/2025

"Chasing Rainbows Over Joburg 🌈🏙️"

A moment of beauty from our last visit to Dlala Nje—Johannesburg showing off with a stunning rainbow after the storm!

A big thank you to those who’ve already booked their spot for City Nightscapes at Ponte City! Space is limited to just 8 participants, so don’t miss your chance to learn new skills from the best in the business, Clare Appleyard.

📅 1st March 2025 | ⏰ 17:30 for 18:00 | 💰 R850 (includes dinner)
📩 Book now: [email protected]

Capture Joburg like never before! 🌆📷✨

14/02/2025

Stimela Events Presents: The Great Chase at Sandstone Estates
Easter Cosmos Festival – Saturday, 19 April 2025

Join us for an unforgettable full-day photographic adventure set in the heart of the spectacular Eastern Free State. Sandstone Estates, with its picturesque sandstone mountains and blooming cosmos fields, provides a breathtaking backdrop for this exclusive event, specially crafted for photographers of all levels.

The day begins at 10 AM with a visit to the airfield, where vintage aircraft will be taking off and landing. This is a unique chance to capture the magic of planes in motion with a steam train in the background—a rare and visually stunning composition. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore and photograph Sandstone’s vast collection of vintage vehicles and machinery, offering endless possibilities for creative shots.

After a break for lunch, where you can relax and soak in the festival atmosphere, the adventure continues. In the afternoon, we’ll shift our focus to Sandstone’s iconic steam trains, embarking on a thrilling chase using our Samil 20 Military Personnel Carrier. This versatile vehicle, with its high clearance and flexibility, allows us to access areas that standard shuttles can’t reach, ensuring the best angles and unique photographic opportunities. Along the way, we’ll make exclusive photo stops and collaborate with the locomotive crews for perfectly timed shots.

The day concludes with a special surprise finale—a highlight we’re keeping under wraps for now but guaranteed to be unforgettable!

This event is led by co-founder James Attwell, a seasoned photographer with nearly two decades of experience capturing Sandstone’s magic. James will be on hand to offer guidance, whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out.

Spaces are limited to 18 participants, so don’t wait! Tickets are R400 per person (excluding festival entrance), covering the entire day from 10 AM onwards.

To secure your spot, email [email protected].

The Great Chase – Capture the magic of Sandstone like never before!

13/02/2025

Time for a Throwback Thursday!

In November, we hosted the '30s Coffee Dash in the scenic Cradle of Humankind.

With a beautifully restored 1930s Chevrolet bus from A Night at the Museum Guesthouse as transport.

The day was filled with vintage charm, fresh coffee, and a delicious home made burger afterwards!

Thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate nostalgia and heritage. Stay tuned for our next 30s dash! 🚂✨

13/02/2025

Founded in 2021 by James and Jade, Stimela Events is all about celebrating South Africa’s rich transport heritage. From historic railways to modern appeal, we create fun, budget-friendly photographic events and workshops for everyone—whether you’re a pro with a DSLR or just snapping with your phone. Let’s capture the magic of history together! 📸✨

12/02/2025

Here's a shot from our last visit to Dlala Nje, capturing a classic Highveld storm rolling in over Johannesburg. The dramatic clouds and moody light give the city a cinematic feel—almost like stepping into a scene from District 9! 🎥👽

Whether you're a pro, amateur, or hobbyist, this is your chance to learn new skills and refine your craft with guidance from one of the best in the business, Clare Appleyard.

📸 City Nightscapes Photographic workshop at Ponte City, with our special guest Clare Appleyard
📅 Date: 1st March 2025
⏰ Time: 17:30 for 18:00
💰 Price: R850 per person (Includes dinner)
📍 Limited to 8 participants (Only a few spots left) – Book early!

📩 To book your spot, email us at [email protected].

Don’t miss this opportunity to capture Joburg’s energy, drama, and beauty from one of its most iconic vantage points! 🌆⚡📷

11/02/2025

The Great Chase Returns!

We're gearing up for another 'Great Chase' at Sandstone Estates - this time, with even more thrilling changes and photographic opportunities!

Join us at Sandstone Estates for the Easter Cosmos Festival, where history comes alive through the lens. Steam trains, vintage planes and vehicles, military heritage, and breath-taking landscapes—all in one epic photographic adventure.

Stay tuned for full details soon!

11/02/2025

Our regular photographic visits to Rovos Rail will be starting up a little later this year! As much as we love capturing these magnificent trains, we’re holding off until the lighting is softer and the weather is cooler—the perfect conditions for truly breathtaking photography.

Stay tuned for updates on our first visit back to the Pride of Africa! 📸✨

10/02/2025

Johannesburg: A City of Compositions! 🎶📸

No matter where you look, there's always a composition waiting to be captured in Joburg—leading lines, light trails, and urban drama at every turn! Some say the city was designed for photographers… okay, maybe not, but it sure feels that way! 😆

So come join us! No matter your photographic experience or level, this is your chance to improve your composition skills and master long-exposure techniques with one of the very best in the industry, Clare Appleyard.

📅 Date: 1st March 2025
⏰ Time: 17:30 for 18:00
💰 Price: R850 per person (Includes dinner)
📍 Limited to 8 participants – Book early! Only 6 spots left.
📍 Dlala Nje, Ponte Towers

📩 To secure your spot, email us at [email protected].

Join us for an unforgettable night of cityscapes, creativity, and top-notch photography guidance! 🌆✨📷

10/02/2025

Pretoria is home to some of the finest historic architecture in South Africa, showcasing a blend of old and new influences. From grand government buildings to charming heritage sites, the city’s skyline tells a story of its past and present.

Join us on 15 March 2025 for a unique photographic adventure, capturing Pretoria’s rich architectural heritage from the top of a City Sightseeing open-top bus. With designated photo stops at key landmarks, this is an opportunity to explore the city’s diverse architectural styles up close.

Pickup options:

Rosebank (The Zone) – Departing at 11:00 AM
Brooklyn Mall (Pretoria) – Departing at 12:30 / 13:00 PM
Stops include:

Pretoria Station – A striking example of early 20th-century railway architecture
Church Square – Surrounded by historic buildings, including the Palace of Justice and Tudor Chambers
The Tramshed – A repurposed tram depot blending heritage with modern function
Union Buildings – A masterpiece of neoclassical architecture with panoramic city views
Cost: R400 per person (excludes parking)
Food & Refreshments: Please bring your own, as they are allowed onboard.

Limited spots are available. To book, email [email protected]

08/02/2025

We're heading to Pretoria for the first time on 15 March 2025 for a unique photographic adventure. This trip is designed to capture the city's urban and street scenes, with a special focus on its historic architecture, all from the top of a City Sightseeing open-top bus, with designated photo stops along the way.

Pickup options:

Rosebank (The Zone) – Departing at 11:00 AM
Brooklyn Mall (Pretoria) – Departing at 12:30 / 13:00 PM
Stops include:

Pretoria Station – Historic railway architecture and street photography
Church Square – Heritage buildings, the Paul Kruger statue, and city life
The Tramshed – Rest stop
Union Buildings – Grand architecture with sweeping city views
Cost: R400 per person (excludes parking)
Food & Refreshments: Please bring your own, as they are allowed onboard.

Limited spots are available. To book, email [email protected].

08/02/2025

Master Long Exposure & Composition at our photographic workshop: City Nightscapes at Ponte City with Dlala Nje, With special guest host: Clare Appleyard
!

Kick off 2025 with an unforgettable photographic experience—City Nightscapes at Ponte City.

Join us for a night dedicated to refining your composition, mastering long exposure photography, and capturing the vibrant energy of Johannesburg after dark.

From the 51st floor of Ponte Tower, you'll learn how to:
📷 Craft powerful compositions that draw the viewer in
⏳ Perfect your long exposure settings for sharp, light-filled images.

As the sun sets and the city lights come alive, you'll capture stunning transitions—from golden hour to deep twilight—all while enjoying a delicious dinner. Choose from chicken or beef stew or an Ethiopian vegetarian platter, paired with a drink from the bar.

📅 Date: 1st March 2025
⏰ Time: 17:30 for 18:00
💰 Price: R850 per person (Includes dinner)
📍 Limited to 8 participants – Book now to secure your spot!

📩 To reserve your place, email [email protected].

05/02/2025

We've Explored Johannesburg – Now, for the First Time, We're Heading to Pretoria on the afternoon of the 15th of March 2025!

Join us for our first photographic adventure through Pretoria’s urban and street scenes, all from the top of a City Sightseeing’s double-decker open-top bus, with designated photo stops along the way!

Departure Times & Locations:
🚍 Option 1: The Zone @ Rosebank, Johannesburg – Departing at 11:00 AM (secure parking available)
🚍 Option 2: Brooklyn Mall, Pretoria – Departing at 12:30 / 13:00 PM

Route & Stops (Approx. 25–30 min per stop):
• Pretoria Station – Historic railway station, classic architecture, and urban street photography opportunities.
• Church Square – A vibrant hub featuring historic buildings, the Paul Kruger statue, and bustling street life.
• The Tramshed – A brief stop for restrooms and a quick snack break.
• Union Buildings – Sweeping cityscape views, grand architecture, and open gardens for a mix of urban and landscape photography.

📍 Depending on time, there may be a few additional stops along the route. Route and locations subject to change.

🚌 Return: We will drop off participants at Brooklyn Mall before heading back to The Zone @ Rosebank, with an estimated return time of 19:00 PM.

Price:
💰 R400 per person (Excludes parking fees at start/end locations).

Food & Refreshments:
🍔 Please purchase your own refreshments – these are allowed onboard the bus!

🔒 Your belongings will be safe on the bus while we explore each stop.

Getting There:
🚗 Rosebank Pickup: Secure parking is available at The Zone Shopping Centre (entrance off Oxford Road). Alternatively, take the Gautrain to Rosebank Station (Northern Exit).
🚗 Pretoria Pickup: Meet at Brooklyn Mall’s parking area for easy access.

📍 Limited spots available – book now and be part of this exciting first-time tour of Pretoria!

📩 To book, email us at [email protected]

www.stimelaevents.com

02/02/2025

Last time out during our City Nightscapes event at Dlala Nje!

Join us for our next visit to Dlala Nje for our photographic workshop with Clare Appleyard!

📅 Date: 1st March 2025
⏰ Time: 17:30 for 18:00
💰 Price: R850 per person (Includes dinner)
📍 Limited to 8 participants – secure your spot early!

To book, email us at [email protected].

01/02/2025

Join Us for Our First Event of 2025 – City Nightscapes at Ponte City with Dlala Nje!

We are thrilled to announce our first photographic workshop of the year— City Nightscapes at Ponte City —at Dlala Nje.

With special guest host: Clare Appleyard!

This exclusive workshop is designed to elevate your urban landscape photography, focusing on composition, long-exposure techniques, and capturing the city's dynamic nightscape.

With expert guidance from Clare Appleyard, you'll learn how to refine your composition, master long-exposure settings, and make the most of available light to create striking cityscapes. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced photographer, this workshop will help you take your skills to the next level.

From the 51st floor of the iconic Ponte Tower, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Johannesburg and beyond, including Sandton. Witness and capture the mesmerising sunset transitioning into the rich hues of nautical twilight—all while enjoying a delicious dinner. Choose from chicken or beef stew, or indulge in an Ethiopian vegetarian platter, accompanied by a refreshing drink from the bar.

📅 Date: 1st March 2025
⏰ Time: 17:30 for 18:00
💰 Price: R850 per person (Includes dinner)
📍 Limited to 8 participants – secure your spot early!

To book, email us at [email protected].

14/01/2025

We’d like to take a moment to thank you for your patience and support. We’ve been a bit quiet recently due to personal reasons, but rest assured, we’re still here and gearing up for an exciting 2025! From unforgettable photo adventures to unique events, we can’t wait to bring you along for the journey. Stay tuned—great things are in the works!

27/12/2024

Our latest video is up!

In today's Christmas Special, we feature footage from Sandstone Estate's recent Cherry Festival and showcase footage of Umgeni Steam Railway's newly restored...