TRENDSETTING STARTS WITH CHEFS - SA Fruit Journal
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DIE JOERNAAL VIR DIE VRUGTEBEDRYF IN SUID-AFRIKA JUNIE/JULIE ‘18
TRENDSETTING
STARTS
WITH CHEFS
PRODUKSIE VAN SITRUS
IN DIE LAEVELD
VRUGTEPRODUSENTE
MAAK HARTE EN SLUISE OOP
OPENING THE GATES TO BREEDERIVIERVALLEI
EIKENHOF DAM SE TAFELDRUIFPLASE
CONTENTS
VOLUME 17 | PART 3
ELKE UITGAWE BEDRYFSNUUS
EVERY ISSUE INDUSTRY NEWS
Redakteursbrief 3 Boost for black-owned business HORTGRO
in fruit packing sector in Western Cape 40
SA Fruit Journal Board NEXT GENERATION SERIES Fountain
of Directors 4 Rosyntjies steek by Aussie kers op 8 of Youth 22
Foreword 5 Vision and staying power are guarantees Eerste Sagtevrugtemuseum
for future success 12 op Bokveldskloof 24
Spoeg 'n Pit 7
SAWWV kenTafeldruifbeurs toe 13 Belê in mense . . .
Fruitful Ideas
Pluk dan vrugte 26
Beautiful, fragrant Quince -
Autumn's Secret 78 CITRUS GROWERS’ The Jobs Fund (JF) project 28
Last Word 80 ASSOCIATION (CGA) Tesco takes Stone Fruit Retailer of
Southern African Citrus Export Outlook the Year Award 30
for 2018 Season 14 ARC and Culdevco partners again 31
Focus on rail transportation from the What are your water risks? Pome Fruit
northern citrus production areas is now Packhouse & Cold Storage 32
more important than ever 16
Water het Waarde 35
Changes and new appointments on the
Trendsetting starts with Chefs 36
Citrus Growers' Association’s Board 20
‘First apple’ picked in SA back
Special Export Programme Changes
on home ground 38
for 2018 20
Agri's got Talent is sy Wortelstelsel 39
New director on the CGA Board - Pieter
Engelbrecht: Second Director for Senwes 21
RESEARCH &
TECHNOLOGY
SOUTH AFRICAN TABLE HORTGRO SCIENCE CITRUS RESEARCH
GRAPE INDUSTRY (SATI) INTERNATIONAL (CRI)
Is a push-pull strategy for
Michael Laubscher, Tafeldruifboer 42 western flower thrips feasible? 58 Extension Briefs for June & July 2018 64
Local and global trade salutes Which carbon calculator to use for Excellent results in the control of
Michael Laubscher 43 my farm or agri-business? 60 false codling moth in field trials using
Tienie du Preez – respected as far entomopathogenic nematodes 68
as Chile 44 10th Citrus Research Symposium 71
What does BREXIT mean for ADVERTORIALS Produksie van Midknight Valencia
South Africa & the rest of the world? 45 PROMOSIE ARTIKELS in die Nelspruit / Karino area 72
The Philippines market for Mpact opens state-of-the-art corrugated Create Soil pH that Ensures Long-term
Table Grapes 47 plant in Port Elizabeth 54 Citrus Orchard Performance 74
Besigheid groei uit vennootskappe 51 New NOVAP Water Saving Technology 63 Excellent Participation at 2018
CRI Postharvest Workshops
by All Postharvest Role Players 76
10TH CITRUS RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM 29 - 22 AUGUST 2018
Register on www.citrusresearchsymposium.co.za | Contact liezl@cri.co.za or 013 759 8003
Design and layout by Colleen Goosen Printed and bound by TO SUBSCRIBE: See rates on page 18
colleen@paperchefs.com Novus Print Solutions Filda Booysen | filda@hortgro.co.za | 021 870 2900
2 SA VRUGTE JOERNAAL | JUNIE/JULIE 2018
EDITORIAL
Take action through coalitions
F
or excellence in future we need to redesign and change which is generally desired in the South
constantly. New ideas. Relationships. Growth. Engagement. African industry.
Knowledge. Creativeness. Attitudes. Constructive forces are Read about the “Dry-on-Vine”(DOV)
needed in these arias in order to make South Africa a better practice on page 8 - a practice gaining
place. Every day, every step, every deed and every thought are more and more field in Australia and in
the result of free will and the choices we make. There are people the USA. More or less 80 percent of the CHRISTA
who want to build a better future and then there are those who Australian and 50 percent of the USA HAASBROEK
want to destroy, with toxic intentions, acting only in self-interest. yields are handled this way. Dried fruit christa@safj.co.za
Politicians are often masters in using these two opposite poles to Technical Services (DTS) and producers 084 948 1644
their advantage and in the process harming everyone. I believe are in a process of comparing different
the majority of people only want good for everyone. Anarchism systems in order to develop a system
simmers and bubbles over on the surface and is seemingly gaining or systems for the South African industry.
more field - causing enough devastation and negativity to ignite
On page 12 you can read about the impact of vision and staying
hostility and demoralizing cultures. Fortunately there are wonder-
power on future success. Sara Pandle’s life story is an example of
ful stories of how good intentions, relationships, attentiveness
how a dream can come true when pursued with good intentions,
and mindfulness are also gaining field, maybe not with so much
vigour and perseverance.
aplomb as its opposite, but with enough impact to positively moti-
You can read on page 54 how good relationships, engagements
vate people. Draw the line and walk assured, with dignity, trust,
and attitudes means business when land reform beneficiaries and
hope and goodwill into the future. Read about inspiring people in
the right partners work together. Vergelegen Packing in the Breede
this edition of the SA Fruit Journal.
river Valley shows others what can be done.
On page 40 you can read about Derich Priga and how he is chang-
Strive after excellence! CHRISTA
ing the face of fruit packing in the heartland of the South African
apple and pear industry. He did so by entering the export value “Optimism is the belief that things are going to get better. Hope is the
chain in a ground-breaking new development which leads the way belief that we can make things better. In the face of often incredible
in transformation in the fruit packing sector. Participation of black suffering, it takes courage to hope. When the chips are down, and
ownership in the value chain of fruit exports has always been a when we need a powerful shot of motivation to help us find new ways
topic of debate. Rather, the lack of it, because fruit packing, logistics to reach our goal and push us forward towards its achievement, there
and marketing have been somewhat lacking in the transformation is no substitute for hope.” REACHFORADREAM
CLAUDIA WALKLETT CLAYTON SWART TSHIDI RAMABU GLORIA WEARE ESTÉ BEERWINKEL ELISE-MARIE STEENKAMP
FPEF 021 526 0379 SATI 021 863 0366 CRI 013 759 8013 CGA 031 765 2514 HORTGRO SCIENCE 021 870 2900 HORTGRO 021 870 2900
claudia@fpef.co.za clayton@satgi.co.za resadmin@cri.co.za Gloria@cga.co.za este@hortgro.co.za elise-marie@hortgro.co.za
JUNE/JULY 2018 | SA FRUIT JOURNAL 3
SAFJ BOARD OF
DIRECTORS
IGNATIUS VLOK
082 331 2127 | sales@safj.co.za
KONANANI LIPHADZI
CEO, Fruit South Africa
Opinions expressed in advertisements and promotional articles are not
necessarily those of the SA Fruit Journal. We do not accept responsibility for damage or injuries
which may arise from possible inaccuracies. All rights reserved, none of the contents may be used
ANTON RABE in any other media without the prior consent of the SA Fruit Journal (Pty) Ltd.
Executive Director, HORTGRO
SA FRUIT JOURNAL ISSN: 1683-4577
SAFJ SHAREHOLDERS
ANTON KRUGER
CEO, FPEF FPEF FRESH PRODUCE CGA
EXPORTERS’ FORUM CITRUS GROWERS’ ASSOCIATION
Private Bag X5, Century City 7441 PO Box 461, Hillcrest 3650 • Tel: 031 765 2514
Tel: 021 526 0474 • Fax: 021 526 0479 Fax: 031 765 8029 • justchad@iafrica.com
www.fpef.co.za www.cga.co.za
SATI
WILLEM BESTBIER SOUTH AFRICAN TABLE GRAPE INDUSTRY
CEO, SATI 63 Main Street, Paarl 7646 • Tel: 021 863 0366
info@satgi.co.za
www.satgi.co.za
SASPA • SA STONE FRUIT SAAPPA • SA APPLE & PEAR
PRODUCERS’ ASSOCIATION PRODUCERS’ ASSOCIATION
Tel: 021 870 2900 • Fax: 021 870 2915 Tel: 021 870 2900 • Fax: 021 870 2915
258 Main Street, Paarl • PO Box 163, Paarl 7620 258 Main Street, Paarl • PO Box 163, Paarl 7620
info@hortgro.co.za • www.hortgro.co.za info@hortgro.co.za • www.hortgro.co.za
JUSTIN CHADWICK
CEO, CGA
4 BEDRYFSNUUS | JUNIE/JULIE 2018
FOREWORD
Taking things for Granted
A
t a recent 60th birthday celebration, guests were asked to some crucial government policies and
contribute to a list of 60 things they know about the person constant changes in the international
whose birthday it was. Initially it was thought that it would trading environment - to name a few. At
be difficult to obtain input, but, on the contrary, the list filled the same time, forecasts for production ANTON KRUGER
up quite quickly. The completed list was interesting, especially the and export of the majority of our fruit are CEO, FPEF
things people wrote down which the person had either forgotten positive (in some cases a record crop is
about and/or was unaware of - things that had been noticed by predicted), and as an industry we are well organised and have
people and which also had an influence on relatives and friends. structures in place to engage with government.
That made me think about our industry. If we were to jot down a On a personal level, some of us are going through difficult times
specific number of things (say 50) about the South African Fruit with regards to health, relationships and finances, etc., however
Industry, what would such a list look like - and would the balance we are also able to enjoy good times with family, loved ones and
be more towards positive or negative aspects? Will we focus on friends. We are blessed to have food on our tables and we have the
threats, constraints and challenges or on solutions and opportuni- ability to write, read, study, work (and have a job!).
ties?
In compiling such a list, one also realises that the person, as well
How many items on the list will be about things over which we do as the industry, is continuously busy to create a legacy that can
not have any control and would those things be viewed as oppor- be a leading light for future generations. Our industry, with its big
tunities? impact on the country’s economy due to a long-term vision and
At the time of writing this piece, the drought is still very much history, as well as the way of operating is truly a prime example of
affecting certain areas in the country. There is uncertainty about leaving a legacy. So, start compiling the lists!
together
with
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info@fairpros.com www.asiafruitlogistica.com
JUNE/JULY 2018 | SA FRUIT JOURNAL 5
6 BEDRYFSNUUS | JUNIE/JULIE 2018
100
SPOEG 'N PIT
Smouspraatjies
95
75
“Ek is in landbou,” antwoord die man met die aapbaardjie toe ek Later het die verteenwoordiger ‘n rep
25
hom vra wat hy doen. geraak.
5
“O,” sê ek, “boer jy?” Die rep het ‘n knap kortbroekie aange-
0 “Nee.” Hy trek sy kraag reg. “Ons verskaf strategiese logistieke had en sy hare lank gedra met lang sidies HERMAN JONKER
oplossings aan die agri-sektor op die produsent/verspreiding en ‘n druipsnor. Sy Big Six Cortina of SPOEG 'N PIT Rubriek
toepassingsvlak.” Datsun SSS het ‘n kassetspeler gehad en
skaapvel oor die sitplekke.
“O,” sê ek.
‘n Rep het Lucky Strike plain gerook en balpuntpenne en lisensie-
Agterna hoor ek hy doen eintlik bemarking vir sy broer se vervoer-
plakkers uitgedeel met die maatskappy se naam daarop. As jy ‘n
besigheid.
goeie kliënt was het jy ‘n A4 dagboek gekry met die woorde van
Ja, partykeer sukkel ‘n mens om dié kopkultaal waarmee dinge
Die Stem voorin. Die rep was ook ‘n baanbreker van tegnologie.
deesdae aangebied word te verstaan. Maar eintlik is dit niks nuut nie.
“Laat ons kyk wat sê die sompompie,” sou hy sê en dan ewe
Oor die jare het selfs bemarkers se posbeskrywing draaie gegooi.
vernaam ‘n Casio sakrekenaartjie uit sy hempsak haal om sy
Eers was daar die smous. berekeninge op te doen.
‘n Smous het die platteland deurkruis met sy wa en voorraad. Van Na hom het die bemarkingskonsultant gekom.
plaas tot plaas het hy verkwansel wat op sy wa was en terselfdertyd
Die bemarkingskonsultant het ‘n maatskappypet gedra en ‘n kort-
aangekoop wat hy teen ‘n billike prys kon verkry. Maar toe paaie,
mouhemp met sy naam op die een sak gestik en die produk se logo
treine, spoorweglorries en die poskantoor kom, was dit nie meer
op die ander. Sy Hilux bakkie het ‘n sleepstang gehad om naweke
nodig om smousgoed saam te karwei nie. Hy kon net bestellings
‘n rubber duck te sleep en hy was lief om elke tweede sin te begin
neem. En homself ‘n agent noem.
met “op die einde van die dag”. Hy het pette en baadjies uitgedeel
Ek is spyt ek het nooit ‘n regte smous geken nie. Hulle was voor my en as jy gelukkig was het jy ‘n persoonlike uitnodiging gekry na die
tyd. Maar die ‘aginte’ het ek wel beleef. Oom Goesie was een. maatskappy se losie op Nuweland.
‘n Gentleman, kon jy sommer met die aankom sien. Sy ligblou Die bemarkingskonsultant het op sy beurt weer ‘n uitvoerende
Zephyr het geskitter en wanneer hy wuif het ‘n goue mansjetknoop bemarker geraak.
uit sy baadjiemou geflits. Hy was altyd gebaadjie, altyd galant, en
Met sy netjiese strepieshemp en kakiekleurige chino broek het
altyd gereed om prys te maak op ‘n vrag Windmeul kunsmis. (Hy
hy ‘n mens nogal aan oom Goesie herinner, al het hy nie ‘n das
het dit nooit gwhano genoem soos baie van die boere nie - altyd
gedra nie. Hy het nie veel by hom gehad as hy uit sy blink SUV klim
gepraat van kunsmis, met so ‘n gepoetste ronding op die u.)
nie, maar hy was kort-kort op sy foon om te reël dat ‘info’ vir jou
Dan het oom Goesie sy bril opgesit en ‘n Van Rijn aangesteek, en
aangestuur word. Hy het gefrons wanneer jy rook en nee dankie
sorgvuldig sy somme gemaak met ‘n Parker vulpen uit sy binnesak.
gesê vir koffie as hy sien dis Ricoffy wat jy aanbied en nie latté nie,
Maar ook die agent het uitgesterf. In sy plek het die verteenwoordi- maar hy het jou darem genooi vir ‘n gholfdag.
ger gekom. Ja, die bemarkers. Alombekend, maar terselfdertyd ‘n bedreigde
Die verteenwoordiger het met ‘n Peugeot 404 of ‘n Valiant op jou spesie want in die koue kloue van die Web is die eens gerekende
werf kom stilhou. Sy ge-oliede hare was met ‘n reguit kantpaadjie amp besig om stilweg
gekam en by sy kortbroek safaripak het hy ‘n paar Buccaneers te muteer tot ‘n
of Grasshoppers gedra met lang kouse wat tot onder die knie virtuele trollie
100
opgetrek was. of ‘n App.
95
Hy sou sy Lexington dooddruk, sy viniel aktesak ooprits en ‘n Gesigloos, snor
75 pryslys uithaal wat op wasvelle getik en afgerol is. Daarop het loos, Lexing-
hy dan ‘n paar items onderstreep en vir jou ‘n sakboekie present tonloos
gegee met tabelle wat ponde, sjielings en pennies omgereken het en, helaas,
25
na Rand en sent, myle na kilometer, pond na kilogram, en gellings karakterloos.
en pinte na liters.
5
0 JUNE/JULY 2018 | SA FRUIT JOURNAL 7Links: Alternatiewe dra-sone.
A
an die hand van hierdie
groeiende tendens (DOV),
het Droëvrugte Tegniese
Dienste (DTD) vir Ivan Shaw,
‘n kundige oor verskeie
aspekte van verbouing,
droging en meganisering van rosyne,
en ook ‘n praktiese produsent, onlangs
na Suid-Afrika genooi om sy kundigheid
eerstehands met plaaslike produsente te
deel. Hy het by verskeie geleenthede in
die Olifantsrivier- en Oranjerivierproduk-
siegebiede voor produsente opgetree, die
beginsels verduidelik en gedemonstreer.
Ivan Shaw het vir ongeveer veertig
jaar as produsent verskeie aanpassings
aan sy produksiestelsels gemaak om
arbeid te vergemaklik, oesopbrengs te
verhoog, risiko van oesskade te verlaag
en gehalte te verhoog. Sy eerste doelwit
was om ‘n opleistelsel te ontwikkel wat
die groeisone en die drasone skei sodat
langdraers meganies gesny kan word en
die druiwe aan die opleistelsel bly hang
om te droog (sien foto regs).
Dit spaar die koste om droogfasiliteite
op te rig en ook die arbeid om druiwe
daarheen te vervoer. Die sny van die
Droog aan die stok, of “Dry-on-Vine”(DOV) soos dit meer algemeen
langdraers het die bykomende voordeel
bekendstaan, is ‘n groeiende tendens veral in Australië en die VSA. dat korrels dan stywer aan die tros bly sit,
veral onder swak, reënerige en vogtige
Onderskeidelik word meer as 80% van die Australiaanse- en 50% van
weerstoestande om die oes sodoende te
die VSA-oeste reeds op die wyse hanteer. red. Die trosse is baie beter deurlug en
droog gouer af na reën wat swamgroei
Die praktyk spreek nie net die geweldige hoë arbeidskoste van die aansienlik beperk en selfs voorkom.
verskeie produksie-lande waarna verwys word aan nie, maar verskans In die vroeë 1980’s het die Sunraysia
produsente ook teen reën- en voedeselveiligheidsrisiko’s. Horticultural Centre in Australië die
Irymple opleistelsel ontwikkel. Dit was
‘n goeie konsep, maar baie duur en
DAPPIE SMIT & FERDIE BOTHA onprakties. Uit hierdie stelsel is die “Shaw
FOTOS DEUR IVAN SHAW (2018) Swingarm” -opleistelsel ontwikkel met
die volgende voordele:
• Dit maak voorsiening om die baie lote
8 BEDRYFSNUUS | JUNIE/JULIE 2018Links: Druiwe bly hang aan die opleistelsel
om te droog.
Onder: Ivan Shaw het by verskeie geleenthede
in die Olifantsrivier- en Oranjerivierproduk-
siegebiede voor produsente opgetree, die
beginsels verduidelik en gedemonstreer.
wat deur groeikragtige geënte stokke geproduseer per hektaar van hierdie
word, te benut om vrugte te dra. stelsel geoes. (dus 36 of
• Trosse kan meer eweredig versprei en deurlug meer ton vars druiwe/
word om droging te versnel – skep ‘n goeie ha.). Daar is ook bereken
mikroklimaat vir droging. dat die arbeid aan
wintersnoeiwerk 33%
• Maklik om dralote met die hand of selfs meganies
is van dit wat vereis
te knip.
word op ‘n T-stelsel. Somersnoei op ‘n “swingarm”
• Die geknipte lote kan maklik in die winter verwy-
stelsel benodig slegs 20% van die tyd wat op ‘n
der word. Die aksie kan selfs gemeganiseer word.
T-stelsel vereis word. Om so vinnig somersnoei
• Duidelike skeiding kan gemaak word tussen te kan toepas, is ‘n geweldige voordeel as ‘n oes
dralote en vernuwingslote. gered moet word in tye van naderende onweer.
- Trosse kom in ‘n bepaalde, beperkte sone voor. In gunstige jare kan die oes gelaat word om hoë
- Ongeknipte lote is maklik identifiseerbaar, deurdat suikervlakke te bereik, voordat dralote geknip word
die blare groen bly. en dus goeie droogverhoudings behaal word.
- Duidelike skeiding kom voor tussen gedroogde en Tans word meer as 80% van die totale Australiese
vars druiwe langs die kordon. rosyntjies volgens hierdie stelsel geproduseer.
Wanneer langdraers geknip is, kan die trosse met Hierdie stelsel bied die opsie om alle aksies soos
‘n loogmengsel benat word, terwyl dit aan die tans, tradisioneel uit te voer, maar meeste aksies
stok bly hang, om droging te versnel. Indien geen kan ook gerede
loogmengsel aangewend word nie, sal die korrels
lik gemeganiseer word, soos deur Ivan Shaw tydens
rosyntjies begin word aan die stok wat op enige
sy besoek breedvoerig met videomateriaal geïl-
stadium gepluk kan word en op bane geplaas
lustreer is. Hy het vir etlike jare, eiehandig 15 ha
word om vinnig verder te droog. Indien die druiwe
sultanadruiwe verbou en gedroog en het volgens
sonder behandeling aan die stokke gelaat word om
hom, slegs sy vrou se help nodig het, om leë kratte
natuurlik te droog, kan die proses baie lank neem.
tydens oestyd aan te ry, omdat dit baie tydrowend
Korrels stort nie geredelik van die tros af, soos wat
is. Hy het ook self ‘n oesmasjien ontwikkel om
gebeur wanneer dralote nie geknip is nie.
rosyne effektief van hierdie opleistelsel te oes.
Hoewel die “Swingarm” -opleistelsel redelik duur Hy het die oesmasjien verder aangepas om twee
is, kan die opbrengs op die belegging hoog wees. naasliggende rye van die “swingarm” opleistelsel
In Australië word geredelik nege plus ton rosyne gelyktydig te kan oes. Die oesmasjien
JUNE/JULY 2018 | INDUSTRY NEWS 9Die 'Swing-arm' wentel om het ‘n roterende kop met stawe wat die rosyne in produksiestelsel en ontwikkeling word met belang-
die vastepunt, met vernu- ‘n matige aksie van die lote af kam in plaas van die stelling dop gehou.
wingslote na bo en draende normale skud-aksie. In die winter word die stelsel Die Shaw Swingarm is ‘n opsie vir DOV. Die VSA stel-
lote na onder. omgeswaai sodat die vernuwingsone wat boontoe sel vir DOV maak, gebruik van ‘n dakprieël opleistel-
Die opleistelsel laat toe gegroei het in die volgende somer aan die ander sel (soos voorgestel hieronder en op bladsy 8).
dat twee rye met een aksie kant, afwaarts hang en die drasone word. Die nuwe
Daar word tans werk gedoen deur DTD en produ-
gelyktydig hanteer kan groei uit die lote wat in die vorige somer geknip is
sente om verskeie stelsels met mekaar te vergelyk,
word. word nou die vernuwingsone, wat boontoe groei,
om sodoende ‘n sisteem (of sisteme) wat sal werk
vir die volgende jaar se oes.
vir Suid-Afrika te kan ontwikkel vir die toekoms.
Rosyne so geproduseer is baie skoon omdat dit
nooit met ‘n droogoppervlak in aanraking hoef te DTD bedank die volgende borge wat Ivan se
kom nie en minimale hantering van die produk besoek ‘n werklikheid gemaak het:
vereis (dus word voedselveiligheidrisiko’s verlaag). ABSA, African Drone Solutions, Agri-Infinity,
Dit skep ook die geleentheid om meer druiwe, Agri-Mark, CBLP, Dege Trekkers, GWK, InteliGro,
vir rosyne te produseer sonder om die koste aan Karabos, KLK, Oranjerivier Oesbeskerming,
te gaan om droogfasiliteite uit te brei. Daar heers Oranje-Meganisasie, Upington Trekkers en
baie belangstelling in verskeie fasette van hierdie Van Zyl Agri.
Dakprieëlstelsel 'Overhead
pergola'.
10 BEDRYFSNUUS | JUNIE/JULIE 2018KINGJAMES 43708/A
VANDAG SE
BOERE IS
MEER AS
NET BOERE.
Die moderne boer staar talle uitdagings in die gesig en moet verskillende baadjies dra om hulle te oorkom. Jy sien om na jou
plaas, jou werkers, jou bates, jou huis en jou gesin. Santam verstaan hoe baie van jou verwag word en daarom neem ons
’n wetenskaplike benadering tot die beskerming van jou oeste, sowel as jou persoonlike en boerderybates. Want ons glo jy
verdien uitsonderlike versekering. Santam. Regte, egte versekering.
Bel jou makelaar of gaan na www.santam.co.za/products/agriculture vir meer inligting.
JUNE/JULY 2018 | INDUSTRY NEWS 11
Santam is ’n gemagtigde finansiële-diensverskaffer (lisensienommer 3416).Vision and staying power are guarantees
for future success
W
e visited the inspirational Sara Pandle in rational is that she is entirely self-motivated: “Sara’s
May 2016 and were so impressed by her decisions and determination to improve herself are
determined self-improvement and dedi- hers alone even though her committed relationship
cation to being of service to others and her goal with God helps guide her in the right direction. Not
Sara Pandle from Ouplaas
to become a nurse that we asked to meet again, only does she ask for what she needs but she also
farm.
almost two years later. “I’m helping people now finds a way to make it happen - from improving her
with their doctor’s letters,” she tells me. Let’s take a ability to communicate by learning to speak English
moment to measure how far Pandle has come. and IsiXhosa to raising the money she needed to
“From about the year 2000 at Ouplaas farm in the complete the First Aid courses herself.”
Witzenberg Valley which grows Tru-Cape apples Pandle explains: “I understand people’s problems
and pears I developed my pruning skill and become as I’ve faced most of them myself. I know what it
familiar with dealing with late developing branches. is like to be under pressure. I’ve been depressed in
I found myself drawn to the training centres and the past and then Johnson, my husband, has really
community development as I knew that I wanted to helped me. I’ve made peace with it that this is my
work with the community. Actually, my dream was work and my calling.”
always to become a nurse but as I had to go out to She says her typical day begins at 06.15 before
work and help support my family at a young age, I opening the Quality Control rooms at 07:30 where
wasn’t able to complete my schooling as a teenager she checks that everything is ready for the day’s
living in Calvinia.” harvest. When she isn’t at the créche or in the QC
“Currently I am principal of the farm créche at room, she is helping farmworkers purchase electric-
Ouplaas and responsible for looking after about ity tokens and assists with letters from the doctors
20 children. I work on creating activities and and what steps need to be taken next. “For the
educational programmes for them. I also work to moment this is about as near as I am to my dream
raise funds for the créche by putting on community of being a nurse,” she says and mentions that she
events. During harvest I still work as a senior Quality needed to get eye glasses before qualifying for a
Controller on the farm and, because of my Level public driving permit license with which she is still
Three First Aid qualifications, I’m also the person in progress.
that our workers come to with problems,” she says. She says she gets home to her husband and
Calla du Toit, a third generation grower at Ouplaas children at about 18:15. “It is then when my job as
and still in the business with his father Joshua and a mother, wife and housewife starts.” There may be
wife Orla, says that what makes Sara’s story so inspi- a community meeting as she is one of the commu-
nity representatives and before getting to bed at
around 22:40," she says, “I bake bread.”
Pandle is currently busy arranging a community
“Sara’s decisions and determination to improve herself are hers
visit to the aquarium as well as a sports day.
alone even though her committed relationship with God helps
Tru-Cape Fruit Marketing managing director
guide her in the right direction.
Roelf Pienaar says that Pandle’s story serves as
Not only does she ask for what she needs but she also finds a inspirational proof that vision and staying power
way to make it happen - from improving her ability to communicate are guarantees for future success and is a good
by learning to speak English and IsiXhosa to raising the money example of the many positive stories coming from
Tru-Cape growers.
she needed to complete the First Aid courses herself.”
BRIAN BERKMAN
12 BEDRYFSNUUS | JUNIE/JULIE 2018SAWWV ken
Tafeldruifbeurs toe
D
ie Suid-Afrikaanse Wingerd en Wynkunde akkerbou-student wat tans besig is met sy MSc.
Vereniging (SAWWV) het vanjaar ‘n beurs aan Die titel van sy projek is: "Improving phosphate
Vivian White toegeken. Dit is ‘n poging van fertilizer recommendations using soil phosphorus
Vivian White (MSc student, die SAWWV om by te dra tot die uitbreiding van die buffer capacity and evaluation of various phos-
US) – vanjaar se tafeldruif- kundigheidspoel in die wingerdbedryf. phate extraction tests on a variety of South African
beurshouer. Hy is 'n afgestudeerde BSc.Agric Grondkunde met soils".
Die baie gewilde
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MAF RODA AGROBOTIC_FRUIT JOURNAL_Half Page_Insertion June-July 2018 issue.indd 1 09/04/2018 16:52:13
JUNE/JULY 2018 | INDUSTRY NEWS 13SOUTHERN AFRICAN
CITRUS EXPORT OUTLOOK
FOR 2018 SEASON
Valencia Overall exports from the southern African
regions at 53.93 million cartons (15 kilogram equiva-
lents) are almost unchanged from last year’s 53.95
million cartons.
Letsitele, which accounts for almost a third of the
volume attributed their region’s eight percent
anticipated growth to 15.2 million cartons to very
good growing conditions and recovery from the
drought. Typically, a medium-heavy crop in the
past has resulted in medium-small fruit. The second
largest player, Sunday's River Valley sees a recovery
to seven million cartons in 2018 approaching 2015
levels after two years in the six million cartons range.
Senwes’ production volume is the same at six million
cartons, but quality is better. Nelspruit experienced
hail damage and although they have normal sized
production they expect thirty four percent less
exportable fruit to be packed this year. Western Cape
Valencias Grapefruit Navels Lemons Soft Citrus Total Citrus volumes are seven percent down on last year due
to dry conditions whilst sizes are uncertain due to
2015 52.7 m 15.7 m 24.5 m 15.1 m 10.0 m 117.9 m
weather conditions. Patensie also expect a drop in
2016 42.1 m 13.8 m 26.2 m 15.1 m 12.2 m 109.4 m
volume due to a poor fruit set. Northern neighbours
2017 54.0 m 15.6 m 21.1 m 19.0 m 13.4 m 123.0 m Swaziland expect a good crop with fruit on the small
2018* 53.9 m 16.8 m 25.6 m 20.6 m 14.7 m 131.7 m side, whilst Zimbabwe anticipate ten percent growth
and very good internal quality due to hot, dry condi-
Grapefruit A good crop is expected, with exports from southern Africa tions but adequate irrigation. Their sizes will peak on
estimated at 14.8 million cartons (17 kilogram equivalents), eight percent up 72 due to young trees yielding bigger fruit.
on last year’s 13.7 million cartons. Pigmented varieties account for the bulk In the European market, Spanish Valencia faced
of the export with an expected 14.8 million carton crop; eight percent up on splitting challenges and drought conditions. Oranges
last year. White grapefruit volumes are up two percent to 1.7 million cartons. and soft citrus were expected two weeks earlier out
For the bigger producing regions, Letsitele expects a medium to heavy crop, of market Egypt had a massive Valencia harvest but
fourteen percent up on last year’s to 4.3 million cartons, and normal fruit small sizes. In Russia, oranges were in the highest
sizes. Hoedspruit expects a seven percent increase over last year to 3.8 million demand with leader in this segment being Egyptian
cartons, recovering from their 2.4 million cartons drought and hail induced Valencias. There was limited stock of Moroccan
disaster in 2016. Limpopo River expects the same volume as last year with oranges in the Russian market and Turkish orange
fruit size improving with late rains. Swaziland start select picking mid-March supplies ended mid-March. There was an also
whilst Zimbabwe start in week 14, which is normal. increased amount of small sized Egyptian Valencias in
An early look at the markets indicated low star ruby stock levels with strong the Middle Eastern market.
consumption in the EU creating an opportunity for southern African Star Rubies. The Chinese market is maturing, taking a wider range
The grapefruit market in Russia was dominated in March by Turkey with of counts and grades. Navels from Spain and Egyptian
pomelos from China also available. oranges were in the market in mid-March. Sweeter
14 BEDRYFSNUUS | JUNIE/JULIE 2018JOHN EDMONDS
local Chinese oranges are competing with less favoured Egyptian already under pressure and they are expecting increased lemon
navels. There was surplus stock of Egyptian and USA navels in the volumes from South Africa and Argentina. South African lemons
Chinese market with the first arrivals of Valencias. Bangladesh are earlier this year and competing more with Egyptian and Turk-
is becoming an important market with South Africa increasing ish lemons. The Turkish lemon quality is good this year.
orange exports by one million cartons last year.
Soft Citrus As in the case of lemons, soft citrus’ upward trajec-
Navels The estimated navel export volume returns to normal tory continues. With an update following the CMF meeting the Soft
from last year’s disastrous 21.1 million cartons with 25.58 million Citrus Focus Group revised their projection further to indicate an
cartons expected in 2018. This is still two percent down on 2016’s overall growth of nineteen percent to 15.9 million cartons. Growth
volumes. is driven by the late mandarin types, increasing twenty four percent
It expected that future growth in this commodity will come from late to 6.9 million cartons.
maturing varieties with early maturing orchards being taken out. The Boland region expect a similar 3.3 million cartons to last year
Senwes is the biggest exporting region showing five percent with the growth from new orchards coming on stream countered
growth to 6.5 million cartons attributed to less hail damage this by the drought effects.
year. They had 100 mm to 150 mm less rain than last year so fruit Western Cape (2.6 million cartons) mandarins are around thirteen
is one size smaller and good internals are expected. Timing will percent up with a good crop except for Morr and Orr which are
be the same as last year. Sunday's River Valley’s navel export crop down. Nelspruit (2.2 million cartons) experienced a lot of hail
recovers to 6 million cartons but fruit sizes may dull their export damage which hampered their growth. They anticipate one size
potential. Staying in the Eastern Cape, Patensie are 18% up on in smaller on all counts. Letsitele late mandarins show a big growth in
comparison to last year’s poor season. The Western Cape at 6.2 volume and smaller fruit, which is good. The Eastern Cape Midlands
million cartons are seventeen percent up on last year, but dry (1.1 million cartons) expect good season with good sizes and
conditions have tempered their recovery. excellent quality. Sunday's River Valley (1.6 million cartons) show a
general increase of thirteen percent with young trees coming into
production. Their counts are one size smaller than 2017.
Lemons Lemon exports approach the 21 million cartons mark
as new orchards come into production. The 20.6 million cartons Patensie (2.6 million cartons and 24% growth) have new trees that
estimate is eight percent up on last year’s final volume. Sunday's are coming into production with Novas, late mandarins and even
River Valley expect to increase four percent on last year to 8.5 Satsuma hectares on the increase.
million cartons. Second largest lemon producing region, Senwes Southern Hemisphere Satsuma volumes are eagerly awaited in
continue their strong growth to 4.5 million cartons. Sizing is the U.K. There is a relatively high stock level for Lemons in the
expected to be slightly smaller than last year, averaging 113/138. market, from Spain and Turkey. Demand is not currently very high.
Likewise, Hoedspruit grows nine percent to 1.45 million cartons. In Russia, the soft citrus market is dominated by Morocco with a
Letsitele and Limpopo River regions experienced some fruit drop premium price paid for late maturing mandarin varieties. Last year
due to Endoxerosis but volumes are not down on last year. The Bangladesh was an important market for soft citrus; more than
Boland region in Western Cape expect the same 1.25 million doubling their imports from South Africa.
cartons with the drought effect being offset by new orchards
coming on stream.
Overall, the South African soft citrus outlook is
In the European markets; Spanish lemons were expected to finish that of growth in volumes due to new plantings
three to four weeks early. The first RSA lemons arrived in the coming into production, being tempered
Russian market in March, competing with Turkish lemons which somewhat with drought in key growing areas.
dominate this segment. In the Middle East the lemons market was
JUNE/JULY 2018 | INDUSTRY NEWS 15Focus on rail transportation from the northern citrus
C
itrus production in the northern areas (comprising KZN, 8 000 truck trips required per season. During the 2017 citrus season
Swaziland, Mpumalanga, Limpopo and Zimbabwe) is (the highest recorded production), citrus packhouses in these
anticipated to grow by 22% in 5 years’ time, from producing areas could not source an adequate number of trucks in line with
a combined 72.5 million cartons in 2017 to an estimated production output to transport citrus to Durban.
88.5 million cartons by 2022 (See table below). The lack of supply of trucks to transport citrus during peak season
This immediately raises concerns regarding the demand and has now a huge problem and is not likely to improve. This should
supply of road transportation to these areas. During the 2017 citrus be reason enough; given the growth forecast, that focus on rail
season, it is estimated there were about 35 800 truck trips required transportation from the northern citrus production areas is now
to transport citrus from these areas to the Durban port. more important than ever.
By the 2022 citrus season, it is estimated there will potentially be a In 2017, roughly 3 200 [known] containers (60 000 pallets worth)
demand for 43 800 truck trips, which is an increase for an additional of citrus was transported by rail from Tzaneen, Bela Bela and City
SOUTHERN AFRICA CITRUS PRODUCTION FOR EXPORT (15 KG CARTON EQUIVALENT)
EXIT PORT COMMODITY 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Est. 1 Est. 3 - 5 Yrs
Eastern Cape Grapefruit 7,258 6,082 7,145 4,918 6,455 4,586 5,000 7,000
to PE &
Coega Ports Lemons 74,305 66,555 81,668 99,527 94,328 112,295 116,000 160,000
Oranges 218,804 232,643 248,543 249,738 244,447 185,169 250,000 270,000
Soft Citrus 26,172 29,331 39,044 40,302 52,743 47,820 55,000 85,000
Total 326,539 335,993 377,142 394,485 397,973 349,870 426,000 522,000
Northern Region Grapefruit 153,052 228,324 195,084 206,217 178,086 195,385 205,000 216,000
to Durban Port
(Incl. Zimbabwe Lemons 36,042 43,949 54,775 55,582 62,409 92,530 105,000 140,000
& Swaziland)
Oranges 499,895 538,196 512,407 532,139 456,476 581,858 580,000 620,000
Soft Citrus 12,022 19,944 19,538 25,450 27,544 43,642 47,500 78,500
Total 701,010 832,304 783,660 819,388 724,516 913,415 937,500 1,054,500
Western/Northern Grapefruit 9,527 9,772 10,520 10,912 17,496 21,616 22,000 22,000
Cape to Cape
Town Port Lemons 19,696 22,733 24,674 28,438 26,256 28,975 30,000 45,000
Oranges 148,015 153,839 176,871 165,529 153,490 149,523 175,000 180,000
Soft Citrus 72,380 71,685 79,056 78,446 91,501 100,520 105,000 160,000
Total 249,619 260,959 295,467 283,324 288,743 300,634 332,000 407,000
Southern Africa Grapefruit 187,988 253,206 212,749 222,047 202,037 221,587 232,000 245,000
(Incl. Swaziland
& Zimba- Lemons 130,379 133,378 161,318 183,547 182,993 233,800 251,000 345,000
bwe
Oranges 903,817 955,564 940,981 953,786 854,413 916,550 1,005,000 1,070,000
Soft Citrus 111,103 120,959 137,638 144,198 171,788 191,982 207,500 323,500
Total 1,333,287 1,469,313 1,459,630 1,503,578 1,411,232 1,563,919 1,695,500 1,983,500
16 BEDRYFSNUUS | JUNIE/JULIE 2018production areas is now more important than ever
Deep (the latter by not powering the reefer units during transport) MITCHELL BROOKE
to Durban; which was a mere 3.5% of the total export volume (915
000 pallets) from the Durban port. This volume is grossly inapt with
much more commitment required to increase the use of rail trans-
port towards 2022 to balance the transportation demands from the
northern production areas.
Short term (immediate) projection shows an opportunity to
transport 7 600 containers from 5 key rail sites using 9 purpose built
reefer train units (comprising 38 FEU wagons, a diesel generator and
diesel tank on a 40 wagon set).
The long-term (maximum 5 years) projection shows there is poten-
tial to transport 13 500 containers from the same five sites (with
major expansion at City Deep) using 14 reefer train units. This is the
equivalent of 10 000 truck trips per annum, which can assist to level
the foreseeable imbalance and demand on road transport leading
towards the 2022 citrus season.
Areas such as Marble Hall, Groblersdal, Hoedspruit, Letsitele,
Limpopo River border and Zimbabwe produce sufficient volume to
warrant immediate rail development and expansion. As it stands
there are rail sites operational for each of these areas to rail contain-
ers to Durban as follows:
1. Tzaneen siding for containers packed in Tzaneen, Letsitele and
Hoedspruit.
2. Bela Bela siding for containers packed in Marble Hall and
Groblersdal.
3. Musina siding for containers packed in the Limpopo River and
Zimbabwe.
4. City Deep, Johannesburg for containers packed in all the above
areas.
Understandably, some obstacles are preventing the short-term
volume projections from being achieved. Such as the fact that
there are only 4 reefer train sets available at present (there is an
immediate demand for 9 reefer train sets), there is also insufficient
electricity supply (by mains or generator power) to power the reefer
containers at some sidings and insufficient capacity at some sidings
to hold the required amount of containers (land space at the sidings
is fully utilized).
The Citrus Growers' Association and Transnet Freight Rail have
agreed that expansion plans should take place within the City Deep
area to meet the long-term volume projections. There is sufficient
electricity supply to power a large numbers of reefer containers and
there is sufficient capacity at the various sidings within City Deep
JUNE/JULY 2018 | INDUSTRY NEWS 17to handle high volumes of rail throughput. There are also [limited] the 2018 season is for 4 500 reefer containers to be railed from the
warehousing facilities (ambient and cold storage) within City Deep aforementioned rail sites – so a lot of work is needed to achieve 10
that are capable of storing, precooling and packing citrus into 000 or more containers. The expansion plans will no doubt require
containers for railing to Durban. Consolidation points are impera- a lot of persuasion from producers to encourage export agents
tive for product to be accumulated to make up containers lots from and logistics agents to commit a certain amount of volume to
multiple packhouses. In fact, City Deep has sufficient capacity to rail transport. For Transnet to invest in additional reefer train sets
rail one or two reefer trains daily during the citrus season offer- and for further expansion at the rail sites, a form of guarantee is
ing a throughput volume of between 6 500 to 10 500 containers required by Transnet to make the much-needed investment. The
annually. Since the turnaround time for a train set to depart and Musina rail project is a good example of how the process works
return to City Deep is roughly 72 hours (best case), it would require best with export agents and logistics agents working collectively
only 6 to 8 reefer train sets to operate 1 or 2 reefer trains a day from with a preferred third party rail service provider to implement a
City Deep. The potential to fully exploit the City Deep opportunities service to the area. In this specific case, volume commitments were
remains for future volume growth. Although in order for this to be given for the third party rail service provider to submit a business
accomplished, a cold storage facility with a capacity of 6 000 pallets plan to Transnet to make the necessary investment. Rail transporta-
would be required to be built in City Deep in order to precool citrus tion should become the primary transport method (albeit with
prior to packing the containers. constraints) with road transport being the secondary but [although
It is deemed imperative that at least 10 000 or more containers dominant] method.
(20% of the anticipated total northern regions annual production) For more information on rail developments, contact
of citrus are transported by rail annually from the northern areas. Mitchell Brooke, Logistics Development Manager,
This will offset the anticipated demand of an additional 8 000 road Citrus Growers' Association of Southern Africa, Tel: 031 765 2514 or
truck trips required towards the 2022 citrus season. The forecast for email mitchell@cga.co.za.
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18 BEDRYFSNUUS | JUNIE/JULIE 2018JUNE/JULY 2018 | INDUSTRY NEWS 19
Changes and new appointments on
the Citrus Growers' Association’s Board
A
fter six years as leader of CGA, Pieter Nortje has stepped down as Chairman.
Pieter’s dedication to solving industry challenges, his foresight and intense
focus on industry issues has meant that the industry continues to grow.
Ben Vorster, incoming Chairman, thanked Pieter for his hard work and dedica-
tion through some difficult periods in the industry. Pieter, as outgoing Chair-
man continues as a member of the Executive Committee as Vice Chairman.
As agreed at the 2017 CGA AGM, a further Vice Chairman position was created
Pieter Nortje, outgoing Ben Vorster, incoming
for succession planning – Cornel van der Merwe continues in this role.
Chairman. Chairman.
George Hall and Fanie Meyer round off the Executive Committee.
GLORIA WEARE
Special Export
Programme
Changes for 2018
Mitchell Brooke. Faisal Asmal. Rauff Dawood.
MITCHELL BROOKE TO OVERSEE SEP PROGRAMMES A change in the structures is an opportunity to look afresh at how
FROM THE 1ST APRIL 2018 things work and I’m sure Mitchell and team will have some ideas on
Mitchell Brooke will take over the management of the Japan and how to take the SEPs to a different level.
South Korean Special Export Programmes (SEPs) for CGA. This SEP ACCOUNTS From an administration perspective Shelly
change has been precipitated by Paul Hardman being drawn into Crosson has taken over from Mena Büchner and will be handling
other roles and responsibilities at CGA which have meant he is not the invoicing and accounts matters. Shelly can be contacted on 031
in a position to give the SEPs sufficient time and attention they 765 2514 or shelly@cga.co.za.
require. Mitchell has agreed to play a greater oversight role for
these programmes. OPERATIONS Our team at the port, Faisal Asmal and Rauff
Dawood, will continue playing their part in making the SEP run
Mitchell comes with considerable experience from years working
smoothly. Operation queries should be directed to Faisal for Japan
in and around the port in various capacities linked to the citrus
and Rauff for South Korea.
industry. He will continue with this current main role at CGA as
Logistics Development Manager while overseeing the SEPs. All RECOGNITION OF LONG SERVICE It is appropriate at this time
communication regarding the SEPs should be directed to Mitchell: to also recognize both Faisal and Rauff for their service to the SEPs
mitchell@cga.co.za over the years.
20 BEDRYFSNUUS | JUNIE/JULIE 2018NEW DIRECTOR ON THE CGA BOARD
Pieter Engelbrecht: Second Director for Senwes
S
enwes has become the third citrus producing region to top About two years later they started
the 13% of total exports mark and as such is entitled to have a exporting all the fruit themselves,
second regional Director on the CGA Board. but using different export agents
Pieter Engelbrecht’s grandfather started farming tobacco in 1956 on for different markets. “My father
the same farm that they still use today. Pieter’s father, Willem took and I decided at that stage to stop
over, farming tobacco and various other cash crops such as vegeta- farming with the tobacco and to
bles, cotton, maize and wheat. At that time the farm’s name was keep infrastructure like central
Volharding Boerdery which is still their motto today. The name was pivots in place. We turned to easier
changed to Piet Engelbrecht Trust in the early 80’s. crops like maize, wheat and soya beans which need less attention.
After packing under various brands we decided to create our own
The Engelbrecht’s involvement in citrus began by accident. Willem
brand called Piet Citrus. It is about 20 years old and well established
bought a piece of land and after the transaction was finalised a
all over the world. It was one of the first brands in China. The Piet
phone call from Kasmar nursery informed him there was an order
Citrus brand is one of the most respected brands globally because
for navel trees for that specific piece of land. He was ready to refuse
of its consistency and quality. A massive effort goes into keeping
the order but after speaking to his accountant it was decided to
it that way. The main varieties are navels, soft citrus and lemons.
accept the order. The rest is history!
Piet Citrus is also well represented locally with its fruit in almost all
Pieter himself attended Lowveld Agriculture College after his year’s
supermarkets, fresh-produce markets and municipality markets.”
army training. Coming back to the farm he began to work as an
“My personal vision is to hand over the expertise and condition of
employee – at the bottom, with a very lowly wage. His father’s argu-
the business to the next generation in the same or better condi-
ment was ‘you’ve finished studying, now you’re here to learn.’ Over
tion that I received it.” Pieter’s personal involvement in the citrus
the next few years the emphasis gradually changed from tobacco to
industry includes him acting as vice president of Agri Limpopo;
citrus. (80% of our energy went into tobacco and gave only 30% of
chairman of Agri Loskop; board member of Loskop Irrigation Board
our income). They packed their own fruit under the Outspan Brand.
and Regional Director, CGA. Pieter has two sons Willem (25) Coenie
After deregulation (1994) they started exporting a small portion of
(23) both back on the farm as the fourth generation. He is now a
fruit themselves with the rest still under the Capespan brand.
new father of a six month old daughter!
Faisal began working for the SEPs while these were still adminis- Rauff was also contracted by CGA in 2006 to specifically assist
tered by the Deciduous Fruit Producers' Trust, reporting to George with the South Korean programme and be backup support on the
Hendriks. In 2006 CGA took over the administration of the SEPs Japan programme. In 2006 only 323 657 cartons of oranges were
from DFTP and Faisal was contracted by CGA directly to look after presented for South Korea inspections. With the South Korean
the Japan programme out of Durban. In time Faisal has taken over protocol amendments to allow exports of South African grapefruit
more responsibilities for the Japan programme and now also plays and lemons to South Korea the SEP has seen steady growth since
an operational oversight role for the South Korean programme. 2012. Initially two South Korean inspectors were in South Africa
These activities have centred on Durban port but at various stages concurrently but this was reduced to only a single inspector at a
also included activities in Port Elizabeth and Cape Town. Despite time with a short overlap mid-season. This has put considerable
the volumes to these markets fluctuating the number of challenges pressure on the programme as volumes have increased.
and issues arising in any given season appears to remain the same. Rauff has helped to ensure that despite these pressures the
Faisal has served the industry well by proactively addressing these programme has continued to operate effectively and the fruit has
and seeking out solutions. CGA and the citrus industry appreciate got through the system. Thank you Rauff for your hard work for
your work Faisal and trust you will continue to add value to these these programmes.
programmes for many more years. All the best for the 2018 season. PAUL HARDMAN
JUNE/JULY 2018 | INDUSTRY NEWS 21NEXT GENERATION SERIES
Fountain of Youth
Making a success of something in life is all about momentum. Progression.
Growth. But to be able to do it well, you need to feed the stream.
Gerrit Rautenbach looks at how the custodians of the farm Fonteintjie are doing it . . .
W
hen you arrive at the farm Fonteintjie bought the farm Fonteintjie in 1951 for an astonish-
(meaning “Little Fountain”) situated ing £23 000 (a mere R46 000 in those days). At the
55 kilometres northbound from Ceres time of the purchase Thinus’ father and his brother
via Prince Alfred Hamlet on the way to were farming together on the neighbouring farm,
Citrusdal, you know you are at a special but Gerrit decided to seek greener pastures on
place. First of all, you are in the heart of the Koue a piece of land next door where he started to
Bokkeveld. It is one of those bucket list names, one produce fruit in all earnest. Apples, pears, peaches,
of those places that you have to see for yourself. and prunes. He had some sheep and cattle as well,
Fonteintjie lies on the high ground between the but the primary focus was fruit.
Olifants and Doring Rivers. Apart from the fact Farming in those days was just that - farming.
that it is visually a beautiful stretch of Africa, I Produce fruit and send it off. Done deal. From the
immediately saw that this is a well-developed and trees into crates and then with the mail bus – a
organised centre for farming. Nothing elaborate, double-decker with one deck for passengers and
but well-structured. Neat. the rest of the goods – off to the market.
In essence, I was there to get the youngest member Seven years later Thinus was born and grew up on
of the business, Gerrit van der Merwe’s story. The the farm, loving every second of his barefoot days.
man who is geared to take the reins. However, He never ever thought of doing anything else but
when I arrived he was doing what a young, ambi- farming Fonteintjie one day. But he thought – with
tious farmer should be doing. He was taking care of all due respect to his dad Gerrit – that he, as the
the business. next generation, would upgrade the incredible
Therefore my conversation kicked off with Thinus, production into a more diverse and modern busi-
his dad. He explained that his father, also Gerrit, ness. So before just falling in, he went to Elsenburg
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22 BEDRYFSNUUS | Pesticide
JUNIE/JULIElab: pesticides@microchem.co.za
2018Gerrit (left) and Thinus van der Merwe
in the orchards of Fonteintjie.
for a three-year agricultural diploma. Then he
started on Fonteintjie in all earnest. Even though he
was holding a higher qualification than Gerrit, his
dad taught him how to get the soil to yield. How
to be an owner-farmer. But he taught Dad how to
turn farming into a better, more profitable business.
When Thinus joined his dad on the farm they had to
manage 20 people. This changed over time to 200.
That’s a different kind of management.
As most young men do, he fell in love (well he has
always been in love with farming), but he fell in that
other kind of love. He married Etta and 30 years
ago, she gave birth to a daughter, Hannelie, and
two years later a son was born, proudly carrying
the name of his grandfather, Gerrit van der Merwe.
a people’s person. You’ve got to be good working
From then onwards, Grandpa was known as Oupa
with lots of people especially during harvest time,”
Gert, a name... well, actually more a title... that
he laughs.
stayed with him until his last breath. Everyone
While he was creating lots of food for thought on the
called him Oupa Gert. With respect. With love.
academic front, Thinus and Oupa Gert were being
Gerrit Junior’s earliest memories are that of
fruitful on Fonteintjie. But Oupa Gert was not getting
Fonteintjie, of their own personal paradise. He went
any younger. So while his grandson was at university
to Koue Bokkeveld primary school in the nearby
he relocated to the retirement home in Prince Alfred
village Op-die-Berg and later to boarding school
Hamlet but never lost touch with the farming. He
in Ceres for his high school years. During those
remained a sounding board for Thinus, keeping track
years he decided he wanted to be an engineer.
of what Gerrit Junior was achieving at varsity. In fact,
Mechatronics fascinated him. Making things work
close to the retirement home was a barren piece of
easier, smarter and faster. Thinus never stood in his
land that he started farming, making the yield part of
way. He was free to choose his own future. Thinus
the Fonteintjie package. All the time, however, it was
said that he’ll give him ten year’s grace to decide
as if he was patiently waiting for the right thing to
whether he wanted to be part of the farm or not.
happen. Knowing the right thing will happen.
So after school, he enrolled for a degree in mechani-
In 2014 it did happen. Gerrit, his grandson, finished
cal engineering at Stellenbosch University, but
his M.Sc. and although Stellenbosch University
very soon the idea of four years of mathematics
desperately wanted him to enrol for a doctorate,
and applied mathematics got him wondering. B.Sc.
he made his choice. It was time to join the clan at
Agric only requires one year of maths, and after all,
Fonteintjie full time. That was a very special time.
Fonteintjie is there, always there. He had ten years...
For a short period the three generations, Oupa Gert,
After completing his B.Sc. he wasn’t completely done his son Thinus and grandson Gerrit, were all looking
yet. His quest for mechanisation kicked in again and after their fountain together. This was what Oupa
resulted in a M.Sc. Cum Laude focusing on how to Gert was waiting for. At the ripe age of 91, Oupa Gert
use technology to mechanise the deciduous fruit was feeling blessed. The circle of life. He was happy
harvesting system. “But now, four years later, I... well, to hand over his legacy to his namesake. Knowing
the industry is not there yet. Today, like always, if you Dad Thinus will still be there to help steer him.
want to be a successful fruit farmer, you’ve got to be
It was time to move on...
JUNE/JULY 2018 | INDUSTRY NEWS 23You can also read
