MEC Alan Winde congratulates regional winners of 2015 Farm Worker of the Year Competition

Western Cape's agri-heroes celebrated across province

The Western Cape’s leading agricultural employees were celebrated in a series of award ceremonies across the province this August.

Alan Winde, Minister of Economic Opportunities, congratulated the regional winners of the 2015 Farm Worker of the Year Competition. The regional winners were crowned and have been entered into the provincial competition.

The 2015 Farm Worker of the Year will be announced at a gala function on Friday evening, 13 November, at Nederburg Wine Estate in Paarl. The  province’s top agri-professional is set to receive a cash prize and an overseas trip.

As part of the selection process, entrants are interviewed by a panel of agricultural experts on a range of issues including transformation and their vision for the future of the sector. Winners are chosen in 11 categories, including best irrigation specialist, agri-processing specialist and technical operator. Regional winners and runners-up receive cash prizes and shopping vouchers from Shoprite.

The Farm Worker of the Year Competition is co-sponsored by the Western Cape Department of Agriculture and Shoprite, Africa’s largest retailer.

Over 6000 agriculture employees have entered the competition since 2002.

MEC Winde said the winners were ambassadors for the Western Cape’s agricultural sector.

“These agri-professionals are playing an important role in food security. They are also leading community development and inspiring residents. I wish them well for the provincial competition.”

The full list of winners for August:

Witzenberg:

Lien Visagie, works at Donkerbos near Rietfontein, plays an active role in encouraging residents.  She is involved with the local crèche and aftercare on the farm and is also a shareholder of the Donkerbos Estate land reform project.

Overberg:

Dawn Hansen, who works at the school at the Diepgat farm in Caledon, was named as Overberg’s winner at a ceremony in Bredasdorp.

Klein Karoo:

Joey Kammies, Junior Manager for the Saag Jonker Group.

Breede Valley:

Jeffrey Stuurman is a junior manager on the farm De Breede Boerdery. He is very involved in the community and is the chairperson of the tug-of-war club and farm watch.

Hex Valley:

Martha Januarie is an administrative assistant at Villion Farms - Boplaas. She has a passion for the vine and for table grapes.

Durbanville

Jacintha September works at De Grendel and has been praised for her attention to detail.

Regional competitions in September:

For media queries, kindly contact:
Bronwynne Jooste
Tel: 021 483 3550
Cell: 060 970 4301
Email: bronwynne.jooste@westerncape.gov.za