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honoured for shaping the future
‘T
onight, we celebrate the Forever Farmers, those produc-
ers and farmers who do not farm just for today, but for
the next generation – not only in the food they produce,
but also in the way they look after the soil. This is the type
of farming where the future is decided by what is done today.’
With these words Mr Chris Burgess, the master of ceremonies at
the prestigious 2018 Grain SA Awards ceremony welcomed guests
at Theatre on the Track in Midrand on 12 October. ‘The stories we
shall hear tonight are a testament to family farms where farming is
more than just a way to earn a living, but a way of life, a commitment
to the soil, and a critical contribution to the country.’ He added that
South African producers are regarded as some of the best on the
globe, farming in some of the toughest conditions in the world whilst
producing staples to fight hunger in the country.
Syngenta is the main sponsor of the Grain Producer of the Year and
Smallholder Farmer of the Year. Mr Abraham Vermeulen (manag-
ing director: Syngenta SA) motivated farmers and producers going
through tough times. ‘Challenging roads are usually the ones that
lead us to success.’ He said one’s journey should always be about
reflection and the learning process. He stated that it is evident that
the finalists and winners all had tough times in their journey to
achieve success, but that each one’s story was a testimony to their
strong character. It also became clear that the value of strong family
ties and support when you are on a bumpy road, is underrated.
‘It is important to share your story to encourage others, especially
those who want to take their first step on this wonderful dirt road of
agriculture.’ He urged farmers and producers to be flexible, to spend
time with positive individuals who are keen to contribute to agri-
culture and to not just have faith in miracles, but to make miracles
happen. ‘I have seen many of our farmers and producers make mira-
cles happen,’ he said referring to various producers who are helping
to improve agricultural practices among emerging farmers and those
who contributed to bring relief in the drought-stricken areas. ‘We all
have the ability to make miracles happen.’
Mr Jaco Minnaar, chairperson of Grain SA, said it was an honour and
a truly humbling experience to be part of this journey. He thanked
the farmers, producers and supporters of the agricultural industry.
‘You are the people who are shaping the future of agriculture and
therefore, the future of South Africa.’
13
November 2018
GRAIN SA
Awards ceremony
1: Derek Mathews, vice-chairperson of Grain SA, welcomed the guests at the Grain SA Awards.
2: Elvis Blue entertained guests with an array of upbeat songs.
3:
Landbouweekblad’s
editor-in-chief, Chris Burgess, made sure the programme flowed
without a hitch.
4: The Deputy Minister: Agriculture, Forestries and Fisheries, Sfiso Buthelezi (with the red tie),
joined the Grain SA Executive and sponsors on stage to congratulate the winners. From the left
are Antois van der Westhuizen (managing director: John Deere Financial Sub Saharan Africa),
Kobus Steenekamp (commercial operations lead, Bayer), Cobus Wells (head: Absa Agri-
Business Africa), Jaco Minnaar and Abraham Vermeulen.
LOUISE KUNZ,
SA Graan/Grain
editorial team and
HELENUS KRUGER
(photos)
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