UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL…

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU HAVE EVER BEEN GIVEN?

Never borrow money for unproductive assets. Instead of borrowing to buy a car, rather buy a tractor. And take care of your relationships, the money will follow.

IF THERE WAS ONE THING YOU COULD HAVE DONE DIFFERENTLY, WHAT WOULD IT HAVE BEEN?

Hiring, managing and empowering the right people and sharing my achievements with them.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR SINGLE BIGGEST SUCCESS TO DATE?

Exceeding my targets for the past two seasons.

WHO HAS MADE THE BIGGEST CONTRIBUTION TO YOUR SUCCESS?

Many people have contributed to my success, but my parents and my grandparents are at the top of that list.

WHAT KIND OF RELATIONSHIP DO YOU HAVE WITH YOUR NEIGHBOURING FARMERS?

I have a great relationship with all my neighbours, black and white.

WAS IT A STRUGGLE TO GET FINANCING AND WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR ANYONE LOOKING FOR MONEY?

It was a struggle to get financing and it continues to be so. My advice is to make sure the lender sees you as a farmer worth financing. Keep good records and create a positive balance sheet. Don’t overexpose yourself to debt, especially with nonproductive assets.

WHAT ROLE HAVE INPUT SUPPLIERS, LIKE FERTILISER AND SEED SUPPLIERS, PLAYED IN YOUR BUSINESS?

These guys play a huge role. They are my expert advisors and they provide all the technical services.

IF THERE WAS A SINGLE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU COULD GIVE THE MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

Government must come to us with an open mind and listen to what we have to say. They shouldn’t just come when they have programmes designed to help us. We need to work hand in hand to create the right environment, and the opportunities, to help one another create jobs and open new markets.