Photo: Supplied
Buying a pivot is usually a big decision for farmers. They require a fair amount of capital and fulfill the all-important role of ensuring proper irrigation in their fields.
In the case of Fanie Botha, who farms in Taaiboschpoort, he is still using a 44-year-old Zimmatic pivot his father-in-law bought in 1978.
Botha farms just outside of Petrusville. When asked what he farms with, he joyously offered, “I farm with a little bit of everything. We make food for the nation here”. His crops include corn, wheat, peas, sunflowers and lucerne.
A 44-year-old Zimmatic pivot is the backbone of his farm. The pivot was bought by his father-in-law in 1978, and it was the second Zimmatic pivot sold in the country. Back then, Zimmatic was new in the market and had to work hard to convince farmers to buy their products. Botha says his father-in-law bought it all those years ago because it promised to offer unparalleled durability and strength.
“Besides that, Zimmatic pivots were also lightyears ahead of all other pivots back in 1978. They had more features and capabilities than most other brands,” Botha added.
The salesperson promised Fanie’s father-in-law that the Zimmatic pivot would last at least 15 years. Little did he know that to this very day, that same pivot would still be operational.
“They really are tough. Look, we still need to do basic maintenance, as you should be doing on any pivot, old or new, but the fact that this one is still working without major issues is just astounding,” Botha explained.
The pivot has recently been adapted to work with Lindsay’s FieldNET solution so that it can be controlled remotely. This adaptability is something that Botha admires about Zimmatic’s products too. He has added several Zimmatic pivots to his farm in recent years.
When asked what challenges they help him overcome, he said that for him, he wants to know his money is being put to good use.
“Every time I buy a Zimmatic pivot, I know it will last for many years and eventually become my son’s equipment to farm our land with. And that’s what convinced me to make Zimmatic our preferred irrigation system,” said Botha.
To learn more about Zimmatic pivots, go to: www.lindsay.com or contact Tanya Brits for more information on 082 853 0265.
