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Premier & Minister provide update on mass power outage in Central Karoo, Garden Route, and Overberg

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Premier & Minister provide update on mass power outage in Central Karoo, Garden Route, and Overberg

On Wednesday, 7 February Premier Alan Winde and Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs, and Development Planning, Anton Bredell, gave an update during a media briefing on the coordinated efforts to restore electricity to towns in the Central Karoo, Garden Route, and Overberg regions. They were joined by Colin Deiner, Head of the (PDMC) and Eskom’s General Manager for the Cape Coast Cluster, Mbulelo Yedwa.

Mr Yedwa indicated that the utility is aiming to fully restore power to affected communities in the Karoo by Thursday, 15 February. However, he stressed repair teams are working flat out to complete this complex task earlier. Eskom has now also advised that in the Overberg region, power was restored last night.

“We have been offering all the support we can to Eskom and will continue to do so until every single household and business in the Central Karoo, Garden Route, and Overberg areas have electricity restored following the weekend’s stormy conditions. We are monitoring the situation closely and receiving regular updates from Eskom and ensuring that if there is any support we can offer, we step in immediately to help expedite repairs.

Municipalities in affected areas are also being assisted wherever possible by the WCG. Premier Winde also thanked civil society organisations for stepping in to help.

In the Karoo region, the towns of Fraserburg, Ladismith, Laingsburg, Leeu Gamka, Matjiesfontein, Merweville, Prince Albert, Roggeveld, and Swartberg are still without power.

Mr Deiner said the PDMC’ s Joint Operating Centre (JOC) is coordinating all disaster management efforts and is giving assistance to Eskom, where needed.

In addition to these measures, critical services are being protected as far as possible:

  • Health:
    • All hospitals in affected areas are running on generators;
    • The reestablishment of a borehole at Laingsburg health facility is being investigated to provide non-potable water to the facility; and
    • 15 000 litres of water have been transported by the WCG to support hospitals in Prince Albert and Laingsburg.
  • Education
    • Nine (9) schools have been impacted in the Karoo area ;
    • No school has been closed due to the current situation; and
    • While the supply of water remains a risk, schools have received water to ensure that learning can continue.
  • Food security
    • The Department of Agriculture continues to conduct assessments and additional funding for diesel and water have been approved;
    • Various departments and stakeholders are meeting daily to discuss the impact on food security; the impact on businesses and ways in which to support affected businesses;
    • Without consistent electricity the ability to keep food cold has become a risk. Therefore, finding solutions to maintain the cold chain has become pivotal; and
    • Environmental Health Practitioners have been deployed to investigate food quality at stores to ensure that residents do not become sick from consuming food which has gone off.

Premier Winde stated, “This has been a mammoth task, but we will continue to provide support to all affected towns for as long as is necessary. Tragically one person has died and another has been hospitalised in Leeu Gamka after it is suspected that they were overcome by fumes from a generator.”

Premier Winde and Minister Bredell offered their heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones and urged residents to adhere to safety guidelines when using alternative energy sources.

The Premier thanked everyone who has stepped in to help, saying, “It buoys me knowing that when disasters like this strike, we are able to rally support from all quarters with the common purpose of helping communities, particularly the most vulnerable. This is a very difficult time and my thoughts are with them daily.”

Premier Winde and the Minister, as well as officials at the PDMC, have been holding daily meetings with Eskom and other stakeholders to receive regular updates on this recovery operation. At this morning’s meeting, Eskom confirmed that faults to the Hawston-Farmer 1 line in the Overstrand have been restored. But to safely return power to the system, a “cold start” is necessary. This may lead to intermittent outages, but these will be addressed as and where they happen.

Work on the collapsed line in the Karoo is progressing to schedule, with all the major material, equipment and contractors on the site. Minster Bredell confirmed that several large generators will be installed today in the business centres of Laingsburg, Prince Albert, and Ladismith:

  • Laingsburg will receive a 350kVA generator form the Provincial Department of Health and Wellness
  • Prince Albert will receive a 650kVA generator for the Provincial Department of Health and Wellness and a 315kVA generator from Eskom.
  • Ladismith will receive a 315kVA generator from Eskom, as well as a 110kVA generator from the Garden Route District Municipality to support their drinking water system.

“These generators will enable us to provide limited power to parts of these towns,” he said.

Minister Bredell added that needs assessments are continuing in the affected communities and the WCG is coordinating relief donations to vulnerable citizens. He continued, “We want to thank all entities and individuals who are working with us. A special word of thanks to Gift of the Givers, Heal our Land, Vodacom, MTN, AfriForum, and DHL for their support thus far.”

Absa’s Campaign Raises R1.5 Million for School Food Gardens in Five Provinces

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Absa’s Campaign Raises R1.5 Million for School Food Gardens in Five Provinces

Absa has reaffirmed its commitment to making a meaningful impact in the communities it serves, by launching sustainable food gardens in schools across five provinces.

As the proud title sponsor of the Absa Run Your City 10K Series since 2021, the bank unveiled its 2023 campaign, aptly named “Together we can do more, Siyabangena”. The initiative aims to inspire Absa employees, customers and community members to actively contribute to positive change by raising funds through the Strava* community. Under this campaign, for every kilometre run or walked by a Team Absa member on Strava, the bank generously pledged a donation of R1, reinforcing its commitment to making a meaningful impact in the community. Strava, which is recognised as the premier fitness app for cyclists and runners worldwide, serves as the ideal platform for participants to track and share their fitness endeavours.

The bank successfully raised R1.5 million, earmarked for the establishment of sustainable food gardens in schools and aiding local communities in distress. Five deserving schools and communities have been chosen for this impactful initiative. The selected beneficiaries are Mautse Primary School in Rosendal, Free State; Ndunakazi Primary School in KwaXimba, KwaZulu-Natal; Strelitzia Primary School in Bethelsdorp, Eastern Cape; Ennis Thabong Primary School in Hartbeespoort, North West; and Northern Cape Agricultural High School in the Northern Cape.

Jabulile Nsibanyoni, Head of Sponsorships at Absa, said, “At its heart, the Absa Run Your City partnership is both a physical test of endurance through our beautiful cities, and an opportunity to uplift our communities by sowing the seeds of a healthier future. We are delighted to have raised R1.5 million through the 2023 series, which will now be used to provide sustainable solutions and contribute towards the growth and development of young learners across the country. We know these gardens will immeasurably change the lives of thousands of community members in the long term, one school at a time.”

As part of Absa’s ongoing efforts to be a force for good, the bank has also partnered with Urban Harvest, who will assist in equipping the schools with training skills and all the tools needed to grow a range of herbs and vegetables. This will allow the learners and teachers to engage in experiential learning and develop an awareness of environmental responsibility.

“Thank you to everyone who participated and joined the force-for-good movement last year. Whether you ran or walked, your kilometres count and have helped us reach this milestone. Through everyone’s collective efforts, we are delivering on our promise of empowering Africa’s tomorrow, together … one story at a time,” concludes Nsibanyoni.

For more information on the Absa Run Your City Series, visit RunYourCitySeries.com

Besturende direkteur van InteliGro, Gideon Hefer, betree nuwe rol

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Besturende direkteur van InteliGro, Gideon Hefer, betree nuwe rol

WinField United South Africa (WUSA) en InteliGro kondig gesamentlik aan dat Gideon Hefer, Besturende Direkteur van InteliGro, die besluit geneem het om met ingang van 1 April 2024 uit sy pos te tree en ‘n rolverandering in die WUSA groep te ondergaan.

Gideon, ‘n gekwalifiseerde geoktrooieerde rekenmeester van die Universiteit van Johannesburg (voorheen RAU), het in 2001 by die destydse Terason aangesluit en was deel van die span wat InteliChem in 2012 gestig het. Hy was ook betrokke by die samesmelting van Terason en TechniChem om die bekende bedryfsleier, InteliGro, in 2016 tot stand te bring. In 2017 is hy as Hoof Uitvoerende Beampte van InteliChem aangestel en het in 2021 as Besturende Direkteur: Kleinhandel by die WUSA se uitvoerende bestuurspan aangesluit.

Sy toewyding aan die landbou blyk duidelik uit sy verbintenis tot die bou van ‘n volhoubare bedryf in Suid-Afrika vir toekomstige geslagte. Benewens sy betrokkenheid by die WUSA-maatskappye, het hy ook op die Uitvoerende Komitee van CropLife SA gedien, met die fokus op die bevordering van die rol van opgeleide en verantwoordelike gewasadviseurs as vertroude sakevennote vir produsente.

Jan Vermaak, Hoof Uitvoerende Beampte van WUSA, het bevestig dat Gideon binne die Groep sal bly en ‘n ander rol sal aanneem om strategiese inisiatiewe te ondersteun. In die onmiddellike toekoms sal Gideon sy gesinslewe prioritiseer en bydra tot organisasies wat gefokus is op opheffing en voedingsprogramme, sake wat hom na aan die hart lê.
Gideon het oor sy reis gesê: “Dit is met ‘n mate van weemoed, maar ook opgewondenheid dat ek ‘n nuwe seisoen in my lewe betree. Dit was my voorreg om deel te wees van ‘n uitsonderlike span wat werklik ‘n verskil op die plaas maak. Die InteliGro-span oortref net blote besigheid – dit behels kameraadskap, vertroude verhoudings, opreg omgee en ondersteunende spanlede, produsente en verskaffers met die gemeenskaplike doel om die produsent en die landboubedryf volhoubaar en suksesvol te hou.”

Jan Vermaak het sy waardering teenoor Gideon uitgespreek vir sy leierskap in die bou van ‘n toonaangewende besigheid, sy bydrae as ‘n WUSA-bestuurder om die samesmelting te ondersteun, en sy positiewe impak op die landbousektor. “Ons sien uit na Gideon se volgehoue bydrae tot ons toekomstige sukses. Tydens die oorgang sal die huidige InteliGro-leierspan soos gewoonlik funksioneer.”

InteliGro

Die volhoubaarheid en die sukses van ons produsente is die kern van die InteliGro-besigheid. Dit is ons doel om gewasse te optimaliseer en te beskerm sodat hoë kwaliteit opbrengste geproduseer 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 ons ons fokus op toekomstige voedselveiligheid behou. en – veiligheid in Suid-Afrika.
WinField United South Africa

WinField United South Africa (‘WUSA’) verskaf holistiese landbou-oplossings aan die Suid-Afrikaanse bedryf. WUSA se omvattende portefeulje bied ervare gewasadviseurspanne, tegniese ondersteuningspesialiste, navorsings- en innovasiefasiliteite, volledige gewasbeskermingsportefeuljes en nasionale verspreidingnetwerke. ‘n Sterk klem word geplaas op produsente, wat uiteindelik verantwoordelik is vir die voeding van die globale en plaaslike bevolking.

WUSA is gevorm uit die 2021 samesmelting van twee plaaslike maatskappye, Villa Crop Protection en InteliChem Group, met WinField United, die gewasbeskermingsonderneming van die Land O’ Lakes Group in Amerika.

Vir navrae kontak:

Jan Vermaak, Chief Executive Officer WUSA: [email protected]
Gideon Hefer, Managing Director InteliGro: [email protected]

We Salute Our Agricultural Heroes

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In the vast fields and under the endless skies, you are the unsung heroes who work tirelessly to feed the world. Through every challenge that Mother Nature throws your way, you stand strong, planting seeds of hope and nurturing them with unwavering dedication.

We know the struggles you face, from the unpredictable weather patterns worsened by the relentless impact of climate change, which can swiftly turn a flourishing crop into a daunting setback, to the ever-rising costs of equipment, fertilizers, and labour, and the uncertainties of fluctuating markets.

On top of these challenges, there’s the persistent disruption of loadshedding. But like the crops you tend to, you possess a unique power – the ability to adapt and thrive.
Remember, change is your ally, not your enemy. Embrace it as an opportunity to grow and innovate. When you encounter hurdles, see them as stepping stones to new heights.
Your resilience is a beacon of inspiration for us all. With each sunrise, you welcome a new day filled with endless possibilities, and with every sunset, you mark another day of hard-earned accomplishments and lessons.

We stand in awe of your dedication, your unwavering spirit, and your ability to transform challenges into triumphs.

Thank you, farmers, for nourishing our bodies and our spirits. Your unwavering commitment to the land and the sustenance you provide is a testament to the incredible human spirit.

Agricultural sector urged to follow guidelines to minimise the impact of heat and fires

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Agricultural sector urged to follow guidelines to minimise the impact of heat and fires

Following the continued incidences of extreme heat and numerous veld fires across the Western Cape, the Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Dr Ivan Meyer, has urged the agriculture sector to take the necessary measures to protect lives, livestock, crops and agricultural infrastructure.

“My first concern is for agri-workers, producers and farmers who are daily exposed to harsh climatic conditions. Climate change is having a dramatic impact on our weather patterns and in extreme conditions poses a threat to the lives of our agri-workers and producers. I urge those working in the agricultural sector to take the necessary steps to minimise the impact of these extremely hot conditions and fires,” said Minister Meyer.

Minister Meyers adds that with the support of the National Government and the South African Weather Services (SAWS), relevant early weather warnings are distributed as and when needed to all stakeholders.

Ms Ashia Petersen, Director: Sustainable Resource Use and Management with the Western Cape Department of Agriculture (WCDoA), provided the following advice on what to do when veld fire conditions are forecast:

“During high fire seasons, the establishment of fire control committees is essential and open-air fires are strictly prohibited. In general, an alarm system, firefighting teams and plans must be prepared in advance to mitigate the impact of a wildfire. It is extremely important to know the contact details of the closest fire/emergency response unit,” remarked Ashia Petersen.

During veld fires, farmers should:

  • Move livestock to safety and out of grazing land to ploughed fields.
  • If water is not available in sufficient quantities or at adequate pressure for the control of major fires, sand, or other loose mineral soil material can be an effective method of control.
  • Ensure that a firebreak is reasonably free of inflammable material capable of carrying a veld fire across it.
  • Farming communities should establish fire protection associations to prevent and control veld fires, as required by the National Veld and Forest Fire Act (Act No.101 of 1998).
  • Insure crops/ livestock against financial loss due to fire damage.
  • The Fire Brigade Services Act provides for the establishment, coordination, and standardisation of fire brigade services.

Ms Petersen warns that during extremely hot conditions animals may suffer heat stress, adding, “Heat stress occurs when an animal is unable to dissipate heat or becomes overwhelmed and the animal’s performance or health suffers as a result.

Heat stress can greatly impact cattle producers through decreased milk production and subsequent calf growth, decreased reproductive performance in livestock and decreased stocker and feeder performance.”

The WCDOA offers the following advice to livestock and crop farmers:

  • Identify animals that are most susceptible to heat stress.
  • Develop an action plan for heat stress.
  • Animals in heat stress need to drink water.
  • Move the animals’ feeding time to late afternoon or evening.
  • Provide shade if possible. Air movement also promotes animal cooling.
  • Cool the ground and the animals gradually and add bedding to the ground (this will reduce the ground temperature).
  • Control flies as much as possible.
  • Do not work cattle during extreme temperatures.
  • Pay attention to long and short-term weather forecasts and keep a copy of the temperature humidity index chart handy.
  • Insure crops/ livestock against financial loss due to heat stress.
  • Do not irrigate during the day as more water will evaporate, instead irrigate early in the morning.
  • Select heat and drought-resistant crops for the region and area in which you are farming.
  • Use mulch to minimize evaporation.

To access the WCDoA’s fact sheets on fire and heat go to https://shorturl.at/cvzE8

Minister Meyer: “The WCDoA recognises the impact of climate change and disasters on the agricultural sector. The increase in both the frequency and intensity of disasters has necessitated the need for the department to focus on disaster risk reduction and mitigation strategies. The department will continue to work closely with District Disaster Management Centres, the Provincial Disaster Management Centre and Organised Agriculture to ensure that farmers receive the necessary support when dealing with disasters,” concluded Minister Meyer.

South Africa’s Red Meat Industry Enters New Era

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In a significant development for South Africa’s red meat industry, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has officially opened its market to South African red meat exports. This breakthrough, facilitated by the collaborative efforts of the Red Meat Industry Services (RMIS), the Department of Agriculture Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD), and the Red Meat Abattoir Association (RMAA), marks a pivotal moment in the industry’s expansion efforts.

The engagement between these entities spanned over a year, culminating in the successful negotiation of a Veterinary Health Certificate, which has been distributed across South African provinces. This achievement aligns with the Red Meat Strategy 2030, which aims for a 20% export target by the end of the decade. The strategy emphasizes industry restructuring, public-private partnerships, and improved veterinary services as key to reaching this goal.

The announcement comes after premature reports in August 2023 led to a spike in weaner calf prices, indicating strong industry optimism about the potential market opening. The official confirmation, however, came after months of diligent work to meet the Saudi Food and Drug Administration’s (SFDA) requirements, showcasing a strong public-private collaboration.
Saudi Arabia’s interest in South African red meat, including beef, lamb, mutton, and goat, is part of a broader investment push into Africa’s most developed economy. The move is expected to tap into a R38 billion industry, with Saudi Arabia lifting a 20-year ban on South African meat imports, which was initially imposed due to concerns over foot and mouth disease.

This development is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to diversify its economy beyond oil, as evidenced by its potential inclusion in the BRICS bloc and investments in various sectors, including pharmaceuticals and technology. The opening of the red meat market is also anticipated to pave the way for other agricultural exports, such as poultry.
The resumption of direct flights between Saudi Arabia and Johannesburg, alongside efforts to streamline visa processing, further underscores the growing trade and investment ties between the two nations. This milestone not only represents a significant opportunity for South Africa’s red meat industry but also exemplifies the potential for enhanced bilateral relations and economic growth.

Severe Heatwave and Thunderstorms Leave Karoo Regions Without Power and Water

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Severe Heatwave and Thunderstorms Leave Karoo Regions Without Power and Water

In the grip of a severe heatwave compounded by destructive thunderstorms, Laingsburg in the Central Karoo region  is facing a dire situation with no access to electricity or water, marking it as the epicenter of the crisis. While Laingsburg’s plight is most severe, the extreme weather has also caused significant disruptions in other areas, albeit to a lesser extent.

The South African Weather Services had warned of heatwave conditions across the Central and Klein Karoo regions, along with the threat of isolated thunderstorms. Over the weekend, these storms led to substantial damage, particularly to the Laingsburg/Touwsrivier 132kV power lines, resulting in widespread power outages. Eskom, the national electricity provider, reported that the damage was primarily due to strong winds and heavy rainfall, which have impacted several towns and rural areas.

Aside from Laingsburg, the affected areas include Leeu-Gamka, Merweville, Sutherland, Matjiesfontein, and Prince Albert. These towns, along with rural farms in their vicinity, have experienced interruptions in their electricity supply, although the most critical water supply issues are concentrated in Laingsburg. Other regions, such as Ladysmith in the Klein Karoo, Napier in the Overberg, and the broader rural farming community from Wolvengat to Pearly Beach, have also faced outages, further highlighting the widespread impact of the storms.

In Laingsburg, the lack of electricity has directly led to a water supply crisis, with essential services like schools and hospitals, now on emergency generators, grappling with the additional challenge of water scarcity. Local officials, including Mayor Amanda Kleinbooi and John Komanisi, Head of Infrastructure, have been at the forefront, addressing the urgent needs of the community and calling for immediate restoration efforts.

The ongoing heatwave and the threat of additional thunderstorms pose significant challenges to the recovery efforts. This situation underscores the importance of resilient infrastructure and effective emergency preparedness to mitigate the impacts of such extreme weather events on vulnerable communities.

Western Cape’s United Front Against Wildfires

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The Western Cape’s verdant landscapes, vital to South Africa’s agricultural and tourism sectors, have recently been ravaged by devastating wildfires. These intense blazes in the Cape Winelands highlight the ongoing battle against climate change and the increasing frequency of such natural disasters. Since 22 January 2024, the fires have caused havoc in areas like Wolseley, Bains Kloof, and Fairy Glen in Worcester, Paarl and the Overberg District has grappled with its own infernos in Buffeljags, Hangklip, Betty’s Bay, and Pringle Bay, devastating both the natural environment and human constructions. Moreover, sporadic fires in other parts of the Western Cape have aggravated the situation.

According to the Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC), there have been more than 4 000 fires across the Western Cape this summer so far. The vast majority have been recorded in the Cape Town municipality.

The recent wildfires have not only tested the resilience of the local communities, but have also strained the financial resources allocated for disaster response. By 9 January, the Western Cape had nearly exhausted its wildfire response budget for the season, with just over R1 million remaining from an initial allocation of R16 million. This alarming expenditure, amounting to approximately R15 million in just over a month, underscores the severity of the fires and the pressing need for extensive firefighting and recovery efforts. In response to this financial strain, the Western Cape Government has increased its budget for combating wildfires to R19 million.

The situation has been further complicated by the South African Weather Service’s level 2 warning for damaging winds in the Western Cape, which have intensified the spread of the fires. Despite these daunting challenges, the spirit of cooperation and determination among the local communities has been evident. Firefighters, farmers, agricultural workers, and volunteers have come together in a commendable display of unity to tackle the blazes head-on, mitigating further loss and damage.

Premier Alan Winde has openly praised those on the front lines, stressing the importance of community engagement in navigating this ordeal. Amid the turmoil, Mayor Elna von Schlicht of the Cape Winelands District Municipality, Premier Winde, and Minister of Agriculture, Ivan Meyer, have directly observed the firefighting efforts, reinforcing the situation’s severity and the government’s dedication to resolving the crisis. Their presence not only acknowledged the firefighters’ operational hurdles, but also provided moral support to those enduring gruelling conditions.

Despite the thousands of hectares of land that has burned, the Premier is relieved there has been no loss of life. But he remained very concerned about the situation generally. “Fires are volatile and unpredictable. Coupled with the hot, windy weather these fires have stretched our emergency teams to their limit. But I have all the confidence in our entire disaster management network to eventually bring the blaze under control, with officials in the public and private sector working together round the clock to protect lives and infrastructure. Our disaster management staff have gone from floods to fires and I know the significant toll that it takes on our dedicated staff and all the volunteers who always step-up,” he said.

Premier Winde told a group of firefighters who had come off the line for a break having worked throughout the evening, “You are heroes. You make us all very proud!”
Firefighter, Musa Kalipa, is facing his first fire season. He said, “I love my job because it allows me to help the community. I also love nature and want to help protect our environment.”

Agri Western Cape chief executive officer Jannie Strydom said, “Communities are really sticking together at the moment, and Agri Western Cape would like to thank every firefighter, farmer, Agri worker, and other members of the community that are working tirelessly to combat fires.” Drakenstein Farm Watch chief executive officer Daam Van Leeuwen Boomkamp said that fires that had plagued areas such as Paarl were distinguished due to the collaborative work with other stakeholders.

With the forecast predicting soaring temperatures and persistent winds, the Western Cape remains on high alert for potential new fires. This looming threat emphasizes the critical need for vigilance and preparedness among farmers and residents alike. The recent wildfires in the Western Cape serve as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by climate change, highlighting the need for enhanced disaster management strategies and the importance of community resilience.

Wine Harvest Event Celebrates Industry Leaders and Heritage at Groot Constantia

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Wine Harvest Event Celebrates Industry Leaders and Heritage at Groot Constantia

Few events are as keenly anticipated, nor held in as high regard, as the annual Wine Harvest Commemorative Event, which took place on 1 February 2024 – marking the momentous occasion of the birth of South African wine, while also paying tribute to the country’s rich wine heritage, and calling for a blessing on the new harvest.

A highlight of the Wine Harvest Commemorative Event – which was fittingly hosted at South Africa’s oldest wine-producing farm, Groot Constantia – is the honouring of key individuals and organisations who have made extraordinary strides towards the ongoing success of South African wine.

Over the years, many great wine legends have been recognised under the categories of Visionary Leadership (with the 1659 Visionary Leadership Award), Growing Inclusivity, Wine Advancement, and Viti- and Viniculture.

This year’s recipients are in keeping with the exceptional pedigree of leaders that have been acknowledged and praised over the years and include: Tim Hutchinson, who has been chosen for the 1659 Award for Visionary Leadership; Cathy Marston, recipient in the Wine Advancement category; Ilse Ruthford recipient in the Growing Inclusivity category; and Dawid Saayman, who was selected in the Viti- and Viniculture category.

Newly elected chairman of the Groot Constantia Trust, Clifford van der Venter, says that, after several years of honouring individuals who have made significant contributions to the SA Wine industry, the Wine Harvest Commemorative Event continues to attract candidates of exceptional quality.

“As in the past, this year’s honourees are indeed a reflection of the strength of the SA wine industry and bear testimony to the extraordinary efforts of the many talented individuals and committed organisations who work tirelessly to ensure that South African wines occupy their rightful space amongst the leaders of the global wine industry. I believe that our industry is healthy and well poised for an even brighter and more sustainable future.”

1659 Award for Visionary Leadership: Tim Hutchinson

This prestigious award went to Tim Hutchinson, leader of one of the largest independent wine companies in South Africa. His bold moves forever shaped the course of South African wine. “Recognition by one’s peers makes all the hard work worthwhile. Thanks to all who share my vision. This award is just as much yours,” says Hutchinson.

Wine Advancement: Cathy Marston

Cathy Marston is the 2024 recipient for her contributions to the image of South African wine and the wine industry in general. Marston is an esteemed wine taster, judge and journalist, as well as a wine educator with global influence. She founded the prestigious International Wine Education Centre (IWEC) in Cape Town, which offers the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) qualifications.

Growing Inclusivity: Ilse Ruthford
Ilse Ruthford is Managing Director of Compagniesdrift, which is a 100% black-owned company. Ruthford is a mentor and leader for numerous young people, instilling a strong sense of hope. She is also a board member of the Stellenbosch Wine Route, leading socio-economic development.

Viti- and Viniculture: Dawid Saayman

This award honours individuals for their innovative ideas, technologies, and practices in the wine-making industry. Dawid Saayman is a soil scientist specialising in viti-viniculture. He is known for defining the concept of terroir in South Africa by identifying and understanding geology, soil types and climate in the South African ‘Wine of Origin’ scheme.

Dr Ivan Meyer, Western Cape MEC of Agriculture says that the Western Cape Government is proud to be associated with the SA Wine industry and the Wine Harvest Commemorative Event.

“The SA wine industry is vibrant, sustainable, innovative, resilient, and one of the cornerstones of the Western Cape, and South African, agricultural sector. Together we are working towards growing the economy, creating jobs, and a safe Western Cape, while promoting the well-being and dignity of its citizens. Over the last 365 years the wine industry has overcome many challenges and through visionary leadership, such as that honoured at this annual event, developed into an iconic sector which has strong linkages to tourism.”

The 2024 Wine Harvest Commemorative Event was made possible with the generous support of Groot Constantia, the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, Wesgro, South Africa Wine, Standard Bank, Checkers, Die Burger, and Cape Town Tourism.

In2fruit’s Lac du Soleil Leads with Innovative Practices

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In2fruit’s Lac du Soleil Leads with Innovative Practices

In the picturesque setting near Piketberg lies Lac du Soleil, a former ski resort transformed into a flourishing grape farm by In2fruit Berg River. With 60 hectares dedicated to commercial grape cultivation, this innovative venture began harvesting in early January, eight years after its inception. The farm’s ability to harvest varieties like Sweet Globe™ a fortnight earlier than usual, mainly for the Chinese market, exemplifies its forward-thinking approach.

Gerhard Olivier, the head farm manager, emphasizes the urgency of getting ripe grapes from the vine to the clients as swiftly as possible. In a groundbreaking move, In2fruit performs all weighing and packing directly in the vineyards. This strategy not only saves on packhouse construction, but also expedites the shipping process. Plans are underway to construct a small packhouse for mixed punnets and premium packaging, while the majority of the crop will continue to be packed in the field.

Lac du Soleil

Innovative Cold Chain Management and Logistics

Lac du Soleil has faced logistical challenges, particularly in securing containers and managing the capacity of their onsite cold store. However, they’ve adeptly navigated these hurdles, ensuring timely deliveries to Europe despite global shipping delays. Their facility boasts five forced cooling rooms, capable of rapidly cooling 21 pallets to zero degrees, a testament to their commitment to quality and efficiency.

In response to a shortage in red seedless grapes, the farm resorted to airfreighting 42 pallets to Ireland, despite the high costs. This decision underlines their flexibility and dedication to meeting market demands.

Sustainable Practices and Environmental Stewardship

A key focus for In2fruit is environmental responsibility. Olivier highlights their trials with paper bags, aiming to reduce plastic usage. Although more expensive and sensitive to moisture, these alternatives are showing promising results.

In2fruit is also refining its grape portfolio. They are trailing 18 cultivars, focusing on early and mid-season varieties, and have seen remarkable success with new cultivars like Autumncrisp® and Sweet Globe™. These new varieties not only outperform older ones in yield but also in quality, with some like Sweet Celebration™ and Adora® producing exceptionally high quantities of premium-grade grapes.

The farm’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. They’ve contended with abnormal rainfall and the necessity of drilling boreholes during droughts. Yet, they’ve managed these adversities with resilience and foresight, maintaining a balance between agricultural expansion and ecological harmony.
In2fruit Berg River’s Lac du Soleil stands as a shining example of agricultural innovation. From advanced cooling facilities to environmental consciousness, the farm demonstrates a commitment to excellence and sustainability.

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