The support comes at a critical time for the livestock industry, as outbreaks of FMD continue to disrupt production, place strain on finances, and threaten the sustainability of farming operations.
Against this backdrop, the strong turnout and generous contributions from sponsors and participants underscored the industry’s commitment to standing together in times of crisis.
Gary Wium, general manager of Farmer’s Weekly, said the success of the day reflects the strength and unity of the agricultural community in responding to challenges that extend beyond individual farms.
“FMD has placed immense pressure on affected farmers, not only financially but emotionally, too. The willingness of industry partners to step in and offer support speaks to the resilience and shared responsibility that define this industry.”
He added that the backing from sponsors was instrumental in ensuring the impact of the event extended far beyond the golf course.
“What stood out was how quickly stakeholders rallied behind the cause. It is a clear indication that when farmers face hardship, the broader agricultural value chain does not hesitate to respond.”
Jaco du Preez, marketing manager for New Holland Southern Africa, the event’s platinum sponsor, said the company’s involvement was rooted in a deep connection to the farming community.
“As part of this industry, we recognise that the challenges farmers face are our challenges, too. Supporting initiatives like this is not optional; it is essential. Farmers are under significant pressure at the moment, and it is important that we stand with them,” he said.
The funds collected will be managed by the Agri Relief Foundation. Director Anton Niemann explained that the foundation’s purpose is to support farmers when they cannot help themselves.
“Our aim is to ensure that farmers stay on the land and keep producing, even when disaster strikes. Every cent that has been collected today will be spent on helping farmers pay vet bills and costs associated with FMD outbreaks,” he explained.
Dr Theo de Jager, executive director of the Southern African Agri Initiative, participated in the golf day to show his support for farmers.
Speaking to Farmer’s Weekly, he highlighted the complexity of FMD, saying the industry needs a broad range of interventions to help farmers survive. This includes those with herds that have already contracted the disease and suffered mortalities, as well as those under quarantine who cannot move or sell cattle.
“These farmers are all struggling to make ends meet, and they are under immense financial strain. We desperately need to put systems in place that will keep them in business and allow them to continue farming,” De Jager added.
During the evening’s gala dinner, an auction was held to raise additional funds. Highlights included a New Holland Baby Moto toy tractor, which sold for R4 700, and a 1/64 scale model of the John Deere 9R 640 from the Prestige Toy Collection, which sold for R5 700.
The Toyota/Hino team was named Best Team, while Paul Dangerfield, head of Hollard Trucking, won the Nearest to the Pin award. The Longest Drive award was shared by Mlibo Qotoyi, an agricultural economist at Grain SA, and Freddie Welthagen from the Toyota/Hino team, and the Longest Day award went to the Cultivaworx team.
