UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL…

LORETTA VISAGIE WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU HAVE EVER BEEN GIVEN?

Never give up and always remain open to learning.

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

Getting into farming when I was younger and learning about the land reform process at that time.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR SINGLE BIGGEST SUCCESS TO DATE?

I’ve passed a few milestones, but I think I’m still heading towards that big success.

WHO HAS MADE THE BIGGEST CONTRIBUTION TO YOUR SUCCESS?

South African Breweries really gave me a huge boost and saved my business.

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

I have a beautiful relationship with all my neighbours based on mutual respect. I learn a lot from them and they are always eager to help.

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

It wasn’t a big struggle for me. I was lucky enough to get financing through the government’s recap programme and from the SAB grant. My advice is, don’t go into farming because your friends are doing it. Have a passion and a love for farming, and when you farm, don’t give up, push hard and knock on every door.

WHAT ROLE HAVE INPUT SUPPLIERS, LIKE FERTILISER AND ANIMAL HEALTH COMPANIES, PLAYED IN YOUR BUSINESS?

They play a huge role. They are keen to help and they give valuable advice.

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

Please provide training to officials that helps them understand our challenges and empowers them to help us solve our problems.