Tough times show the resilience of Bonsmara breeders

Despite having to cancel its annual event due to the COVID-19 crisis, Bonsmara SA has ensured that its breeders remain involved and informed, as well as continue to produce exceptional animals, writes Louis Steyl, CEO of the Bonsmara Cattle Breeders’ Soci

minutes, statements and fee changes. New office bearers were also elected during this process. This is the first time in Bonsmara SA’s 56-year history that an annual general meeting has been concluded through an alternative process, a feat that was completed within 10 days.

Bonsmara SA wishes to express its gratitude to the outgoing chairperson, Hennie Coetzee, as well as councillor Duncan Serapelwane. The society thanks both for the time and effort they committed to the council and the way in which they served the society.

The re-elected council members are Nick Serfontein and Justin Stirk. The newly elected office bearers are Gert Olivier and Arthur de Villiers. The society will be led for the next two years by Bonsmara SA’s new chairperson, Nick Serfontein, and vice-chairperson, Nelius Ferreira.

‘ the health of breeders is our first priority’

“It is with great humility that I want to thank the members of Bonsmara SA for re-electing me to the council, and council members for electing me to serve as your chairperson for the next term. I do not take this position for granted and I realise the responsibility that comes with this at these trying times,” Serfontein said.

“Bonsmara SA and its breeders can give the commercial market their assurance that we are still at work in these uncertain times to breed animals for the benefit of our clients through compulsory performance testing and a combination of science and ‘in-the-kraal’ knowledge.

“The agriculture sector is regarded as one of the most important in our economy, and Bonsmara SA is proud to be in the forefront with every South African farmer in this time of crisis.”