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Sappi Achieves Feed Safety Milestone for Lignin-Based Animal Feed Additive

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Sappi Southern Africa has achieved GMP+ Feed Safety Assurance (FSA) 2020 certification for Pelletin, one of its lignin-based products used as an additive in animal feed manufacturing. This makes Sappi the second organisation in Africa to attain this prestigious certification.

GMP+ is the world’s largest and most rigorous animal feed certification scheme, focused on the contribution of safe animal feed throughout the entire production chain, with an emphasis on quality assurance and risk management in the production and trade of animal feed. Sappi Southern Africa’s certification is for ‘Trade in Feed’, while the ‘Production of Feed Additives’ certification has been issued to Sappi Tugela Mill.

“Sappi’s certification gives Pelletin a competitive edge in the global lignin market, as it demonstrates its compliance with the highest standards of quality assurance and risk management in the animal feed industry,” says Jason Knock, general manager, Lignin for Sappi Southern Africa. Knock adds that this is vital for the health and welfare of livestock and the safety of food products derived from them, as well as the issue of food security in the country.

Lignin, a major component of wood and an abundant organic polymer, provides a multitude of functionalities especially in the industrial and agricultural sector. The importance of lignin is growing and is becoming an indispensable additive where sustainable natural alternatives for oil-based products are desired. Lignin is recovered from the pulping process of paper and board manufacturing and is a prime example of the bioeconomy.

“As a technical lignin, Pelletin primarily functions as a binder in the production of compound animal feeds and acts as a natural glue that binds the feed ingredients and additives together. This makes for a cost-effective compound feed pellet with enhanced durability and strength,” explains Knock.

The combined anti-caking and dispersing properties of the product promote mixing uniformity and homogenous blending of all feed ingredients, acting as an effective lubricant reducing friction in the pelleting process, as well as reducing wear and tear on the manufacturing equipment.

“We are delighted to receive this internationally recognised certification, which confirms that our products meet the highest standards of quality and safety in the animal feed sector. This is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team at the Tugela Mill, who have successfully passed the rigorous audits required for GMP+ certification. We are committed to maintaining and improving our standards and processes to ensure the satisfaction and trust of our customers,” comments Knock.

Pioneering Initiative Launched to Advance SA Chenin Blanc to New Heights

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South Africa Wine, the South African Grape and Wine Research Institute (SAGWRI), Stellenbosch University, and the Chenin Blanc Association of South Africa (CBA) are launching a pioneering initiative to advance the prominence and economic viability of South African Chenin Blanc.

Titled Premiumisation and Value Growth of South African Chenin Blanc Wine, this collaborative effort, spearheaded by a team of academics under the leadership of Prof Melané Vivier, is set to change the industry’s approach to this cultivar. With an investment of over R4 million over three years from South Africa Wine and co-funding from the National Research Foundation (NRF), this project signifies a significant stride towards sustainability and innovation within the South African wine sector.

The relationship between Stellenbosch University and the South African wine industry has a rich history, dating back more than 100 years. In 1925, Professor Abraham Izak Perold, the first professor in viticulture at Stellenbosch University, created the grape variety Pinotage for the industry by crossing Pinot Noir and Cinsaut.

“South Africa Wine remains dedicated to driving progress and excellence within the South African wine landscape through proactive research and innovation,” says Gerard Martin, Research, Development and Innovation Executive at South Africa Wine. “That is why we partnered with various stakeholders in this project to grow the value of Chenin Blanc.”

“Chenin Blanc was chosen as the project’s focal point due to its widespread cultivation and growing reputation. Additionally, substantial industry expertise in crafting high-quality wines from Chenin Blanc grapes makes it an ideal candidate for exploration.

“The economic sustainability of wine producers in South Africa faces significant challenges, necessitating value growth in bulk and packaged wines. This initiative is designed to tackle these obstacles head-on through multidisciplinary methodologies. With a key emphasis on striking a delicate balance between grape yield and wine quality, the project aims to ensure the profitability of South African Chenin Blanc wines.”

The value of this project lies in its holistic approach to examining the sustainability of the whole Chenin Blanc value chain. Comprising five synergistic work streams, including Market and Product Intelligence, Distinctive SA Chenin Blancs, Production for Profit, Juice to Wine, and Support Systems, the project hopes to yield comprehensive insights into various aspects of viticulture and winemaking.

“This project underscores our longstanding belief in Chenin’s adaptability, excellence, and potential to compete internationally,” says Chenin Blanc Association (CBA) Chairman and co-founder Ken Forrester. “We are delighted to be a partner in advancing the research of South African Chenin Blanc and emphasise its significance in our industry.”

A pivotal aspect of the project involves a model Chenin Blanc vineyard planted with 19 different trellising systems, generating scenarios ranging from very high to very low yields. This vineyard was a collaboration between Stellenbosch University and Vinpro to establish the Welgevallen vineyards with a generous financial investment from Vinpro. The Chenin Blanc vineyard represents all the trellising systems used across all the wine regions in South Africa, including irrigated and dryland systems.

Through rigorous experimentation and analysis, optimal microbial consortia, winemaking techniques, and production strategies will be identified to enhance the premiumisation of South African Chenin Blanc wines across all price categories.

The project builds on previous Chenin Blanc research, and funding will include student bursaries. The industry will receive the project’s results through various knowledge transfer channels.

“Adopting a market-centric approach, the project endeavours to tailor grape production and winemaking processes to align with consumer preferences and market demands. Integrated data analyses, economic evaluations, and demonstrated results will drive data-driven decision-making and foster industry-wide innovation,” says Prof Vivier.

“We are thrilled to embark on this collaborative journey to unlock the full potential of South African Chenin Blanc wines. By partnering with various industry stakeholders, we aim to drive sustainable growth and differentiation within the industry,” she concludes.

South Africa Wine Summit Sets New Course for Industry’s Future

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The South Africa Wine Summit heralds an exciting new chapter for the country’s wine industry. Hosted at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) on May 23, the summit serves as a platform for industry leaders, stakeholders, and media to come together, exchange insights, and discuss the direction that will shape the future of South African wine.

Aptly named Blend and Bond, the summit embodies the collaboration that defines the South African wine landscape. It represents a collective commitment to solidarity, innovation, and sustainability as industry players unite to navigate evolving challenges and capitalise on emerging opportunities.

At the heart of the summit lies unveiling a new strategic framework designed to propel the South African wine industry forward. Drawing on the latest trends, insights, and research, this strategy charts a bold course for growth, competitiveness, and resilience in the global marketplace.

“As we gather at the South Africa Wine Summit, we stand at a pivotal moment in our industry’s history,” says South Africa Wine CEO Rico Basson. “With our shared vision, collective expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence, we are poised to usher in a new era of growth, innovation, and sustainability for South African wine.”

The South Africa Wine Summit promises to be an event brimming with opportunity. Participants will engage in thought-provoking discussions on thriving amid chaos and uncertainty and seizing opportunities even in turbulent times. Empowering individuals and teams to succeed will be a central theme as attendees explore strategies for navigating innovation, diversity, and impactful initiatives within the wine sector. Crafting success in a multi-category business will also take centre stage, offering valuable insights into maximising growth and profitability across various segments. Additionally, the summit will explore wine’s bright spots worldwide, encouraging attendees to look past trends and uncover untapped potential in the global market.

“We are proud to sponsor the inaugural South Africa Wine Summit as we support the vision of a brighter, more vibrant future for the South African wine industry through collaboration, innovation, and a shared sense of purpose,” says Daneel Rossouw, Head of Sales for agriculture at Nedbank Commercial Banking. “Key partnerships such as these are vital for growing the agricultural sector, and by bringing together stakeholders from across the value chain, we can harness the collective power of our industry to drive positive change and unlock new growth opportunities.”

At the South Africa Wine Summit, a stellar lineup of local and international experts will share their insights, expertise, and vision. This event is unmissable for industry professionals seeking to drive innovation, collaboration, and positive change in the world of wine.

The South Africa Wine Summit is proudly presented with Nedbank as the main sponsor. Hillebrand Gori and Kaap-Agri are involved as smaller co-sponsors.

Kick off the weekend in style with Boschendal’s Friday night offerings

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Boschendal is evolving Friday night plans with the introduction of a range of new laid-back experiences designed for the perfect start to the weekend. From farm-fresh sharing snack boxes to enjoy on the lawn to jumping castles for the kids, bars and extended Farm Shop and restaurant hours, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Tamara Patel, Chief Marketing Officer at Boschendal, says, “Gather friends and family and enjoy the very best of Cape Winelands summer evenings at our new Friday night experience. With a feast of farm-fresh produce, extended restaurant hours, live music and kids’ entertainment on offer, guests are in for a night to remember.”

Included in the Friday night offering is a new sharing snack box filled with farm-fresh treats and tantalising flavours. Guests can pre-book their snack box and enjoy a laid-back experience on the Werf lawns while enjoying the live entertainment.

The Werf and Deli restaurants as well as the Farm Shop have extended hours until 9pm to ensure an extensive range of food options is available. Guests can indulge in a variety of options, ranging from pizzas and boerie rolls to oysters, all complemented by Boschendal’s award-winning wines.

The Werf Wine Bar is also offering extended hours, giving guests ample time to savour Boschendal’s wines by the glass or bottle at cellar door prices. Guests can pair their choice of wine with a thoughtfully crafted platter offering a variety of cheeses, charcuterie, and farm-fresh bread. Furthermore, we provide a selection of oysters for your enjoyment.

Patel adds, “The sought-after experience and limited numbers make booking essential. Secure your spot in advance to avoid disappointment and ensure you enjoy an unforgettable evening at our historic farm.”

TE Tours: The Essence of Small Group Travel

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In the dynamic and ever-changing world of travel, TE Tours emerges as a beacon for those in pursuit of an unparalleled blend of adventure and intimacy. Under the stewardship of Jan Hough, a visionary in the realm of travel, TE Tours distinguishes itself by specializing in small group tours that offer a perfect combination of the personal touch of solo travel with the reassurance and comfort of group expeditions. This unique approach positions TE Tours at the forefront of the industry, catering to explorers who yearn for deeper connections with the world’s exotic wonders, while enjoying the ease and security that comes with expertly curated group travel.

Jan Hough: The Pioneer Behind Club Travel Tyger Valley and TE Tours

Jan Hough’s journey in the travel industry is a testament to innovation and resilience. Transitioning from the traditional travel agency model, he has steered Club Travel Tyger Valley into becoming a beacon for explorers seeking a more intimate connection with their destinations. His foresight and adaptability have enabled this agency to thrive amidst the shifting sands of the travel industry, and has enabled the invention of TE Tours as a leader in small group tours. Reflecting on this evolution, Hough remarked, “In a world that’s constantly rushing, we aim to offer journeys that allow our travellers to truly pause and connect with the essence of each destination.” This philosophy serves as the foundation of TE Tours, where each journey is crafted not just as travel, but as a profound exploration of culture, nature, and self.

Club Travel Tyger Valley – the Shop: Your Gateway to the World

At Club Travel, nestled within the vibrant Tyger Valley Centre, travellers discover a sanctuary of travel planning and support. As a Club Travel branded agent, a prestigious group established in 1987 and now part of Travelstart, it has access to a wealth of resources and expertise.

“Offering the entire spectrum of travel services and accessories, personalised, customised travel management – domestic and international, corporate or leisure travel: flights; accommodation, all land and sea transport; car rental; travel insurance; visas; all-inclusive packaged travel for individuals and groups; in short all customised travel arrangements… tell us what your need is or what’s on your bucket list, and we will make it happen.”
At Club Travel Tyger Valley it goes further as it offers a far wider scope than a traditional travel agency with an extensive range of additional services and products tailored to meet all travel needs:

Automobile Association: “As an Automobile Association of South Africa accredited sales agent, we provide a wealth of information and all the useful services of the AA – IDP (International Driving Permit), AA membership (roadside assistance), trans border vehicle documentation and requirements, carnets de passage, the required stickers for your vehicles, safety and first aid kits, etc.”

TE Tours

Retail – Travel Accessories: The shop stocks the most comprehensive range of travel accessories at very competitive prices. This includes a wide variety of well-designed and durable luggage, international adaptor plugs, travel pillows and cushions, maps, travel locks, luggage tags, car safety products, among others.

TE ToursSmall Group Escorted Tours: Exotic destinations, small groups – a great experience! For the discerning explorer who wants the comfort and security of group travel but the space and pleasure of individual travel.

The Appeal of Small Group Tours

Small group tours are the heart of TE Tours, designed for those who seek a deeper engagement with the places they visit. These tours are carefully curated to provide an immersive experience, allowing travellers to delve into the cultural and natural wonders of their destinations, while enjoying the benefits of expertly managed logistics. The intimate nature of these groups fosters a sense of community and shared discovery among participants.

The success of TE Tours’ small group adventures lies in the uniqueness and personalised nature of the experiences. These tours are premium adventures, appealing to those who value authenticity, cultural immersion, and the thrill of exploration. All of this done in small groups, limited to at most 15 tour members – no 40-to-a-coach approach here.

TE Tours emphasizes the unique itineraries to exotic destinations, expert guides, and the carefree enjoyment of travel, drawing in a clientele that seeks adventure without the hassle.

Exploring the 2024 Tour Program

The 2024 tour program from TE Tours presents an exciting array of exotic destinations, each offering its own unique and compelling experiences – visit www.smallgrouptours.co.za for full picture.

For now, these are the tours that still have space available: Caucasus (3 – 18 June), Kashmir & Ladakh (1 – 15 July), Morocco (7-20 Oct), Japan (18 – 31 Oct), and Vietnam & Cambodia (26 Nov – 11 Dec) 2024. Each tour is carefully curated to provide an immersive experience, promising not just sightseeing, but a deep engagement with the culture, history, and natural wonders of these diverse destinations.

 

Choosing TE Tours for an Unforgettable Journey

Choosing TE Tours means embarking on an adventure where every detail is thoughtfully managed, allowing travellers to immerse themselves fully in the experience. The all-inclusive nature of their tours not only simplify the travel process, but also enriches the journey, transforming it from a mere trip to a comprehensive exploration rich with discovery, camaraderie, and lasting memories.

As travel preferences shift towards more meaningful experiences beyond conventional sightseeing, TE Tours, guided by Jan Hough’s visionary leadership, remains at the forefront of this trend. These journeys are designed not just for visiting new places, but for truly experiencing them, fostering deep connections with both the destinations and fellow travellers.

Setting Sail with TE Tours

In conclusion, TE Tours distinguishes itself with a unique travel approach that blends the depth of solo exploration with the comfort and security of group travel. From the historic marvels of Türkiye to the cultural depths of the Caucasus and the enchanting landscapes of Morocco, TE Tours craft journeys that transcend the ordinary.

When travellers choose TE Tours, they are not merely visiting destinations; they are diving into experiences that resonate on a personal level, creating memories destined to last a lifetime.

For those ready to embark on an unforgettable journey, TE Tours invites them to reach out directly and start planning their next adventure, where extraordinary experiences await.

Contact TE Tours at Cub Travel Tyger Valley at 021 914 2265, www.smallgrouptours.co.za or [email protected]

Western Cape Unveils Intern Program to Empower Young Agricultural Entrepreneurs

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On Tuesday, 11 March 2024, the Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Dr Ivan Meyer, and the Head of Department, Dr  Mogale Sebopetsa, welcomed 120 unemployed agricultural graduates as interns to the Department’s Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP). During the two-year internship graduates will be placed with farmers and sector stakeholders who will act as mentors and host employers.

The agricultural graduate intern programme will offer youth experience through work-integrated learning and support the establishment of youth-owned or managed enterprises, youth entrepreneurs, and other activities. This will encourage the active participation of youth in the agricultural sector to bridge the gap of ageing producers and reduce unemployment and poverty.

Minister Meyer said, “This programme places unemployed graduates with agriculture-related qualifications on farms and at enterprises within the agricultural value chain to acquire relevant on-the-job entrepreneurial and business skills to enable them to establish and manage their own enterprises.”

Minister Meyer and Dr Mogale urged the graduate interns to embrace the values of the Western Cape Government –  care, competence, accountability, integrity, innovation, and responsiveness.

Dr Sebopetsa commented, “You have joined an important sector of our economy. The Western Cape agriculture sector is responsible for 55% of South Africa’s primary agricultural exports.  It is also the country’s most important contributor to food security. As the next cohort of producers and entrepreneurs in the sector, we hope to expose you to the values and the practices that you need to be successful.”

Minister Meyer highlighted that the agricultural graduate intern programme allowed participants to unlock their potential within a thriving sector of the economy.

“Unleash your capability within this flourishing sector. Agriculture and agri-processing contribute 11% to the GDP of the  Western Cape. By the end of 2022, statistics highlighted that the agriculture sector employed 227 893 workers in the Western Cape, and the agri-processing sector employed  236 002 workers.  Combined, the sector contributed 426,417 jobs in the Western Cape.  This means that the agriculture sector employed 17% of the total number of people employed in the Western Cape.”

The key placement components of the agricultural graduate intern programme are:

  • Livestock rearing and poultry production;
  • Horticulture/crop production;
  • Aquaculture production;
  • Viticulture;
  • Agro-processing;
  • Agricultural Extension; and
  • Agricultural Economics

Minister Meyer said: “Education, Training and Research, and Farmer Support are two of my ministerial priorities. These are underpinned by the Western Cape Government’s Growth for Jobs Strategy. Agriculture is a key sector of the Jobs for Growth Strategy.”

“Ultimately, we want to improve the employability of agricultural graduates through on-the-job experience at major agricultural host farms and entrepreneurial entities while at the same time, offering our producers additional support. Importantly, this programme is working to reduce unemployment and equipping our youth to become employers themselves,” concluded the Minister.

Martin en Jaco se Epic Fietstoer Ten Bate van CANSA

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Die spreekwoord lui “When your legs get tired, cycle with your heart”, en twee dapper manne, Martin Cilliers en Jaco Swanepoel, gaan dit letterlik en figuurlik ten doel stel. In die uitdagende 8-daelange Absa Cape Epic 2024 fietstoer, gaan hulle alles gee om fondse in te samel ten bate van KANSA (Kanker Assosiasie van Suid-Afrika).

“Dit is ‘n saak wat na aan ons harte lê. Heelwat mense en ook ons familie, het al geliefdes afgestaan aan kanker en deur die hartseer gegaan. Vandaar is die idee gebore om fondse in te samel vir kankernavorsing,” verduidelik Martin.  Hy sê dat alle fondse wat deur hulle gegenereer word, direk aan KANSA geskenk gaan word. “Ons mikpunt is R230 000, maar as ons R250 000 kan haal sal dit baie harte bly maak. Besoek gerus ons webblad om vordering dop te hou of ‘’n direkte skenking te maak – Given Gain Campaign: Jaco & Martin raising funds for CANSA Active https://shorturl.at/tMNZ1”.

Op 17 Maart spring die 2-manspan weg by die 20ste Absa Cape Epic by Lourensford in Somerset-Wes en eindig met die Grand Finale in die pragtige Stellenbosch. Die Epic fietstoer is berug onder selfs geharde trappers en dikwels geestelik, fisies en emosioneel uitdagend. Die roete duur ongeveer 700 kilometers van ongetemde terrein met ongerepte natuurskoon oor berge en deur valleie, en self so hoog as 16 650m se uitmergelende klim!

“Ons is opreg dankbaar vir InteliGro se ondersteuning” sê Jaco Swanepoel, “ons grootste borg. Ons hoop nog maatskappye of individue sal betrokke raak vir die goeie saak. Volg InteliGro se sosiale media blaaie, ons gaan foto’s instuur om die roetes en gebeure te deel, daar sal sekerlik ‘n lekker val of 2 ook in wees!”

Dis so maklik om deel te neem aan die fondsinsameling. Spesiale KANSA fietsry hempde is laat maak vir die fietstoer, met name van persone wie deur kanker geraak is daarop. Vir ‘n minimum skenking van R100 sal die naam van ‘n geliefde wie se lewe deur kanker geraak is by die trui-ontwerp gevoeg word. Dit kan iemand wees wat met kanker geveg het of oorwin het. Voeg eenvoudig hul naam by jou boodskap wanneer jy ‘n skenking maak en dit sal in die ontwerp geinkorporeer word.

Maar dis nie al nie! Vir elke beperkte oplaag CIOVITA CANSA-trui wat verkoop word, sal aan CIOVITA R1000 aan KANSA skenk om te help in hul doelwit om ‘n kankervrye Suid-Afrika te skep. https://shorturl.at/QVZ08.

“Ons weet maar te goed dat wat ons doen niks meer as ‘n druppel in die see is nie. Maar as die druppel nie daar was nie, sou die see iets gemis het,” het Moeder Theresa gesê. Laat jou druppel tel!

KANSA Suid-Afrika

KANSA se visie is om Suid-Afrika na ‘n kankervrye samelewing te lei. Die missie, as ‘n nie-winsgewende organisasie wat kanker beveg, is om navorsing moontlik te maak, die publiek op te voed en alle mense wat deur kanker geraak word, te ondersteun.

Deur samewerkende navorsing beoog KANSA om innoverende, effektiewe en relevante benaderings tot die voorkoming, diagnose en behandeling van kanker te bevorder en te ondersteun.

KANSA gebruik bewysgebaseerde navorsing om hul voorspraakwerk, gesondheidsopvoedingsprogramme en diens aan diegene wat met kanker leef, in te lig.

The Cancer Association of South Africa

 

InteliGro

InteliGro is ‘n leier in die verskaffing van geïntegreerde gewasoplossings, met ‘n netwerk in Suid-Afrika en Namibië om die visie te ondersteun om die produsent en die landbou industrie volhoubaar te hou.

Die volhoubaarheid en die sukses van produsente is die kern van die InteliGro-besigheid, met die doel om gewasse te optimaliseer en te beskerm sodat hoë kwaliteit opbrengste kan geproduseer kan word. Met ‘n span gesertifiseerde gewasadviseurs, ervare tegniese spesialiste, verskaffers van topgehalte en omvattende produkreekse, is InteliGro in die beste posisie om kundige gewasadvies, wetenskaplik gebaseerde insigte en geïntegreerde gewasoplossings te verskaf – terwyl die fokus op toekomstige voedselveiligheid en- verskaffing in Suid-Afrika gehou word.

www.inteligro.co.za

 

Innovasie en Insig Die Hartklop van Boeredag in Caledon en Moorreesburg

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Match Exchange (MX) bring ‘n opwindende Boeredag na die hartjie van ons landbou gemeenskappe, Caledon en Moorreesburg, op 20 Maart 2024. Hierdie geleentheid is nie net gefokus op die aanpak van die huidige uitdagings in die landbousektor nie, maar streef ook daarna om boere se horisonne te verbreed met nuwe perspektiewe en kennis. Deur vooraanstaande kenners te betrek, sal die Boeredag insigte bied oor toekomstige tendense en innovasies in die landboubedryf.

Sprekers

Boere kry die geleentheid om na twee gesaghebbende sprekers te luister. Dawie Roodt, ‘n bekroonde ekonoom en die gewilde aanbieder van Ontbytsake, sal sy insigte deel oor die aankomende verkiesing, die potensiële politieke en ekonomiese gevolge daarvan, en wat dit vir boere in terme van kritieke besluitneming beteken.

Pieter Geldenhuys, ‘n hoogs gerespekteerde internasionale konsultant, bekend vir sy werk as ‘n toekomskundige en wêreld strateeg, sal sy visie deel oor internasionale geo-politiese tendense en die impak van tegnologiese ontwikkelings op die landbousektor. Hierdie insigte is onontbeerlik vir boere om hul risikobestuur en besluitnemingsprosesse te optimaliseer.

Match Exchange (MX)

Match Exchange (MX) transformeer die manier waarop boere hul oeste bemark, met ‘n platform wat hulle direk met kopers verbind. Die kern van MX se benadering lê in die gebruik van tegnologie om die aanvoerketting te verkort en te vereenvoudig. Dit word bereik deur prysontdekking te fasiliteer binne ‘n netwerk waar boere, silo’s, en verwerkingspunte nie net geografies geposisioneer word nie, maar waar vervoerkoste ook in ag geneem word om transaksies te optimaliseer. Hierdie benadering verbeter nie net doeltreffendheid nie, maar ondersteun ook winsgewendheid en volhoubaarheid in die landbousektor.

Op 20 Maart word die Boeredag in twee sessies aangebied: in Caledon by die Victoria Hall begin die dag met registrasie om 08h00, en in Moorreesburg by Die Stoor begin die middag sessie met registrasie om 13h30. Boere geniet gratis toegang, terwyl ‘n toegangsfooi van R500 per persoon vir nie-boere geld.

Vir meer inligting: [email protected] | www.matchmx.com

Reviving the Go Wellington Wine Route

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Rolling hills and cool, lush boltholes; slow village mornings and afternoons-become-evenings of fine food and wine; soaring mountain spires and endless rejuvenation. These are but some of the delights beckoning from the Cape’s magnificent Wellington.

Under the revival of the Wellington Wine Route, a fresh breeze blows, and it all begins with a brand- new Go Wellington identity and a Go Wellington Family Festival. The festival takes place on Thursday, 21 March – Human Rights Day and the year’s very first public holiday.

To this is added a new website – www.gowellington.co.za – that welcomes the return of those who’ve visited before, and urges those who’ve never been, to go taste, explore, eat, sleep and shop.
For many who’ve discovered its charm, Wellington’s essence is defined by its mountains. The natural amphitheatre formed by the Drakenstein – or “dragon rock” – range, inspires the idea its misty peaks conceal creatures of myth and legend. For others, Wellington is a place of rich history resplendent in its classical architecture, abundant natural beauty and award-winning wineries and distilleries.

Go Wellington’s new digital presence is the place to begin planning a trip to the region. Contained within the pages of www.gowellington.co.za are links to a dizzying array of available experiences. These include wine tours and tastings, skydiving, hiking the mountains, trail running and MTB trails; where to buy products exclusive to Wellington; as well as dining and accommodation options to suit every pocket, including family friendly destinations.

Go Wellington Family Festival

21 March sees the official launch of the new Go Wellington Wine Route and its initiatives, including the first Go Wellington Family Festival. The event takes place at the Old Tannery, a charming shopping district developed on the premises of the former Western Tanning & Boot Company of 1871.
On offer is the opportunity to sample wares from over a dozen of the Go Wellington Wine Route members, a variety of food stalls, children’s activities as well as live music. There will be café and cocktail-style seating with umbrellas.

Tickets available via Quicket

InteliGro: Houer vir houer op pad na die wenstreep

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“Sir David Attenborough, ontvanger van die “Champions of the Earth Lifetime Achievement Award”, het gesê: “Wat ons nou doen, bepaal ons pad vir die volgende 1000 jaar.” Suid-Afrika beskik oor sy eie kampioen oor rentmeesterskap en omgewingsbewaring in landbou, die alombekende Dr. Gerhard Verdoorn van CropLife SA.

Luidens ‘n onlangse gesprek met Dr. Verdoorn op RSG, is die bewusmakingsveldtog oor die veilige hantering en korrekte wegdoening van leë landbouprodukhouers ‘n paar jaar gelede reeds begin, met die doel om produsente, verskaffers, en alle rolspelers in die landbousektor in te lig. Dit is nie iets waaraan mens daagliks dink nie, maar die verkeerde hantering van gebruikte houers kan ernstige besoedeling veroorsaak wat mense, diere, en die omgewing nadelig beïnvloed. Baie produsente en plaaswerkers is reeds bekend met die driemaal-uitspoelmetode, wat noodsaaklik is om grond- en waterbesoedeling te voorkom. Om dit vir produsente makliker te maak om van leë kanne en dromme ontslae te raak, is ‘n netwerk van herwinningsfasiliteite regoor Suid-Afrika opgerig. Elke fasiliteit moet aan streng vereistes voldoen voordat CropLife SA dit as ‘n goedgekeurde herwinningdepot registreer.

 

InteligroInteliGro, ‘n leier in die landbousektor, dryf aktief die program van rentmeesterskap. Hulle het reeds verskeie depots landwyd gevestig, wat erken word as belangrike hulpbronne vir die bevordering van verantwoordelike en volhoubare landboupraktyke.

In Citrusdal is die InteliGro Senior Gewas Adviseur, Gerhard Visser, aan die stuur van sake. Hy fokus op geïntegreerde boerderypraktyke, wat biologiese oplossings insluit. Gerhard en sy span is uiteraard nou verbind aan sitrus produsente in die omgewing, en is ook baie ernstig oor die verantwoordbare rol wat hulle speel om te verseker dat die area se gebruikte houers op die regte manier ontvang, voorberei, geberg en versend word.

“Voorheen is verspreiders van landbouprodukte soms as ‘gifsmouse’ bestempel, wat ‘n negatiewe reputasie geskep het. Dit is ‘n uitdaging wat ons steeds ondervind in ons pogings om die publieke persepsie te verander,” vertel Gerhard, “Die produsente met wie ons werk, weet egter dat InteliGro se opgeleide Gewas Adviseurs die hele pakket aanbied – van grondverbetering, saad, plantvoeding, gewasbeskerming met beide konvensionele en biologiese aanwendings, tegnologie en kundige ondersteuning – alles om positiewe resultate te bewerkstellig. En dis tog waarna ons as ‘n span met ons produ-sente strewe”.

Vir Gerhard is dit belangrik om as ‘n verantwoordelike rentmeester in die landboubedryf op te tree. Dit sluit nie net sy praktyke op die plaas in nie, maar ook die herwinningsfasiliteit wat hy en sy span bestuur. Gerhard deel sy bekommernisse oor hoe leë houers van landbouprodukte voorheen op plase opgehoop het. Ongeveer drie jaar gelede het hy die inisiatief geneem om Dr. Verdoorn te kontak en ‘n versamelpunt vir leë houers in die omgewing te vestig.

“Dit vergemaklik die proses vir produsente om hul houers by ons af te lewer, waarna ons die verdere bestuur daarvan oorneem. Ons dra by tot betekenisvolle verbeteringe op die plaas. As deel van die landbougemeenskap, met ‘n diepgewortelde verbintenis tot die aarde, verseker ons dat ons aktiwiteite geen nadelige impak het nie.”

Johnathan Badenhorst, die voorman van die Citrusdaldepot, deel met trots die prosedures van versameling en voorbereiding. Skandeer die QR-kode hieronder om die video te kyk. “By die aankoms word houers volgens grootte gesorteer, dan gesny en saamgepers voor dit in grootmaat na die herwinningseenheid in Piketberg vervoer word vir verdere verwerking. Produsente ontvang sertifikate van veilige verwydering, ‘n belangrike voordeel tydens ouditprosesse.”

Inteligro

Waarom is dit noodsaaklik vir produsente om aan die CropLife SA-houerbestuursprogram deel te neem? Ondanks die vele nuttige toepassings van plastiek, word die helfte van alle plastiekhouers en -produkte ontwerp vir ‘n eenmalige gebruik, waarna dit weggegooi word. Dit lei daartoe dat ons jaarliks meer as 300 miljoen ton plastiekafval produseer, wat ernstige omgewingsimpakte tot gevolg het. In die landbousektor word plastiek onder andere gebruik vir die verpakking van plaagdoders, kunsmis, saadsakke en vir die bou van tonnels. Dit is dus die bedryf se verantwoordelikheid om die lewenssiklus van hierdie produkte te bestuur. Verder vereis nuwe regulasies oor Uitgebreide Produseteverantwoordelikheid, soos uiteengesit in die Wet op Nasionale Omgewingsbestuur: Afval van 2008 (Wet Nr. 59 van 2008), dat elke produsent verplig is om ‘n herwinningstrategie te implementeer vir die insameling van hierdie produkte.” (Inligting aangepas van CropLife SA se webtuiste).

Die verantwoordelikheid om leë houers korrek te hanteer en by versamelpunte of herwinning depots af te lewer, lê uiteindelik by elke produsent. Weet jy waar jou naaste herwinningsfasiliteit is?

Neem ‘n oomblik om CropLife SA webtuiste te besoek en meer inligting te bekom. Deur gesamentlik en op ‘n verantwoordelike manier op te tree, kan ons ‘n blywende en positiewe impak in die landboubedryf maak en ‘n waardevolle erfenis vir toekomstige generasies verseker.

Citrusdaldepot: [email protected]
www.inteligro.co.za