CGA CITRUS SUMMIT CAPE FLORA INVESTS IN EMERGING BUSINESSES POMEGRANATE TREE PERFORMANCE DURING CRITICAL DROUGHT CHALLENGING STONE FRUIT SEASON ...
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D I E J O E R N A A L V I R D I E V R U G T E B E D R Y F I N S U I D - A F R I K A J U N E / J U LY ‘ 1 9
CGA CITRUS SUMMIT
CAPE FLORA INVESTS IN EMERGING BUSINESSES
POMEGRANATE TREE PERFORMANCE DURING CRITICAL DROUGHT
CHALLENGING STONE FRUIT SEASON FOR GROWERS
JUNE/JULY 2019 | SA FRUIT JOURNAL 1
ELKE UITGAWE BEDRYFSNUUS
EVERY ISSUE INDUSTRY NEWS
HORTGRO CITRUS GROWERS’
INDUSTRY NEWS ASSOCIATION (CGA)
SA Fruit Journal Industry initiates ‘plastics task team’ 8 Southern African citrus export
Board of Directors 4 Company’s Garden reclaims history 10 estimates 2019 34
Editorial 5 Procuring academic excellence 12 CGA Citrus Summit 37
Foreword 6 Gino pedals the Cape Town
CGA Citrus Summit legends 42
Sun Flowers Cycle Tour 14
70 SOUTH AFRICAN TABLE
Forever Young Big dreams for small farmers 15
GRAPE INDUSTRY (SATI)
The Stellenbosch insectary 16
SATI attends OIV spring meetings 44
Research game changer for pincushion
Controlling ground pearls in vineyards 45
flower industry 18
TO SUBSCRIBE: BREXIT: 10 tips for SA
Cape Flora invests in emerging
Filda Booysen grape exporters 48
filda@hortgro.co.za businesses 20
021 870 2900 The First Lady of Ou Stasie 22
Design and layout by
Challenging stone fruit season
Colleen Goosen
for growers 24
colleen@paperchefs.com
Koos Lötter: een van ‘n soort 26
Printed and bound by
Novus Print Solutions Two young female chefs shine 30
CONTENTS
VOLUME 18 | PART 3
RESEARCH &
TECHNOLOGY
CITRUS RESEARCH AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH ADVERTORIALS
INTERNATIONAL (CRI) COUNCIL (ARC) PROMOSIE
Extension briefs for April & May 52 Fungal Stem cankers of deciduous INTELIGRO bio stimulants 29
58 fruit trees 62
CRI postharvest workshops: 2019 FELCO 32
Pomegranate tree performance
CRI training workshops for BASF: volhoubare oplossings teen
60 during critical drought 65
citrus scouts donsskimmel, witroes en Botritis 41
VITITEC weet hoe 50
BASF: oplossings in kernvrugte 64
MBFi: ImProve Oil 68
SAFJ (SA Fruit Journal) is also available in electronic format on our website.
SAFJ (SA Vrugtejoernaal) is ook elektronies beskikbaar op ons webtuiste.
www.safj.co.za
JUNE/JULY 2019 | SA FRUIT JOURNAL 3
SAFJ BOARD OF
DIRECTORS
IGNATIUS VLOK
082 331 2127 | sales@safj.co.za
KONANANI LIPHADZI
CEO, Fruit South Africa
Opinions expressed in advertisements and promotional articles are not
necessarily those of the SA Fruit Journal. We do not accept responsibility for damage or injuries
which may arise from possible inaccuracies. All rights reserved, none of the content may be used
ANTON RABE in any other media without the prior consent of the SA Fruit Journal (Pty) Ltd.
Executive Director, HORTGRO
SA FRUIT JOURNAL ISSN: 1683-4577
SAFJ SHAREHOLDERS
ANTON KRUGER
CEO, FPEF FPEF FRESH PRODUCE CGA
EXPORTERS’ FORUM CITRUS GROWERS’ ASSOCIATION
Private Bag X5, Century City 7441 PO Box 461, Hillcrest 3650 • Tel: 031 765 2514
Tel: 021 526 0474 • Fax: 021 526 0479 Fax: 031 765 8029 • justchad@iafrica.com
www.fpef.co.za www.cga.co.za
SATI
SOUTH AFRICAN TABLE GRAPE INDUSTRY
WILLEM BESTBIER 63 Main Street, Paarl 7646 • Tel: 021 863 0366
CEO, SATI
info@satgi.co.za
www.satgi.co.za
HORTGRO POME (SAAPPA) HORTGRO STONE (SASPA)
Tel: 021 870 2900 Fax: 021 870 2915
• Tel: 021 870 2900 • Fax: 021 870 2915
258 Main Street, Paarl • PO Box 163, Paarl 7620 258 Main Street, Paarl • PO Box 163, Paarl 7620
JUSTIN CHADWICK info@hortgro.co.za • www.hortgro.co.za info@hortgro.co.za • www.hortgro.co.za
CEO, CGA
4 SA VRUGTEJOERNAAL | JUNIE/JULIE 2019
EDITORIAL
4IR, driving
the narrative
W
hat’s not to love about the fourth indus-
trial revolution (4IR) – version 4.0 in the
revolution cycle? It comes powered with
the tailwinds of globalisation and is transforming CATHERINE
our lives as we speak, through technology, artificial MILWARD-BRIDGES
intelligence (AI) and conveniences like the Internet Interim Editor: SAFJ
of Things (IoT).
Agriculture – and, therefore the labour-intensive fruit industry – undoubtedly has
the economic potential to accelerate inclusive growth through earned foreign
exchange and job creation. But there’s a caveat: that ties with government are
strengthened and objectives aligned; and that the industry harnesses 4IR and –
CARMÉ NAUDÉ CLAUDIA WALKLETT
importantly – upskills our workers towards future-fit capability.
HORTGRO 021 870 2900 FPEF 021 526 0379
carme@hortgro.co.za claudia@fpef.co.za The average farmer is said to be faced with approximately 50 decisions to make
during the growing season. And many of these decisions have been based on
estimates. From global positioning system (GPS) technology introduced in the
1990s to satellite imaging, in-field sensor systems and other modern day farm
management software, farmers around the globe are maximising technology and
reaping the benefits of (particularly) precision farming. It enables advancements
like precise measurement of crop variations and accurate soil analyses, which
translate into maximised production and increased revenue. Modern technology
can equip growers to help meet the rising global demand for food, and can
certainly prepare our industry for the projected population growth.
President Ramaphosa made good on his promise by announcing in April the
team tasked with running the Presidential Commission on 4IR. Its objective is to
GLORIA WEARE CLAYTON SWART
ensure that SA maximises rapid ICT advances by prioritising inclusive growth and
CGA 031 765 2514 SATI 021 863 0366
Gloria@cga.co.za clayton@satgi.co.za social development. SA also recently signed an accord with the World Economic
Forum (WEF) that enables us to establish an affiliate Centre of the Fourth
Industrial Revolution (C4IR). These are telltale signs that government realises the
critical role of 4IR in economic development.
Die vierde idustriële revolusie is soos ‘n kamermaat op universiteit. Dis hier om
te bly, of ons nou daarvan hou of nie. En die spoed waarteen dit ons lewens infil-
treer en verander gaan ook nie sommer afneem nie. Gelukkig is ons vrugtebedryf
oor die algemeen ontvanklik in dié opsig, en ons boere ervaar toenemend die
verskeidenheid voordele wat tegnologie vir hul plase en werkers inhou. Nou
moet ons net die balans tussen die tegnologiese wêreld en menslike hulpbronne
behaal en handhaaf, om optimale samewerking en effektiwiteit regdeur die
bedryf teweeg te bring.
TSHIDI RAMABU ELISE-MARIE STEENKAMP Change remains a constant – whether it be economic, political or technological.
CRI 013 759 8013 HORTGRO 021 870 2900
resadmin@cri.co.za elise-marie@hortgro.co.za And the best way to effect and harness it is generally through an open mind and
an intentionally collaborative approach.
So, here’s to embracing change.
JUNE/JULY 2019 | SA FRUIT JOURNAL 5
FOREWORD
Baa3
A
fter 1994 SA was dubbed the 'Rainbow many issues - mostly warranted, in my view. As a
ANTON RABE Nation'. This identity – and the hype, vibe nation we’ve become equally adept at using humour
Executive Director, and goodwill around it – waned after just a as a coping mechanism, especially when it comes to
HORTGRO few years. We then had a second bite at the cookie, those very serious issues.
around the time of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Here, But the SA public is sick and tired of the incompe-
in my view, we’re left with a legacy merely compris- tence that’s most evident in the grave lack of service
ing excellent road and airport infrastructure – espe- delivery. This is often linked to brazen criminal
cially in Gauteng – and a few sport stadiums that entitlement, ineffectiveness and the capture of state
have now adopted white elephant status. resources mentioned earlier. Our daily lives are
Will we have a third bite at the cookie with the poten- impacted directly, when it comes to basic services
tial of the much debated “Ramaphosa dawn”? such as electricity, water, sanitation, health, safety
With the continued inability of key government and security, education, and the lack of maintenance
departments and State Owned Entities (SOEs) to and/or building of new key infrastructure.
deliver critical services; and in the wake of state The National Development Plan (NDP) highlights the
capture and cadre deployment that reached its height agri sector – and the fruit sector, in particular – as
in the Zuma era, this is yet to be experienced. Hope- being ideally positioned to create much needed
fully, we will see some heads role in the near future. jobs. Agriculture can enhance rural development
On how we got to where we are, I have my personal with stable economies and sound infrastructure. It
opinion, as would everybody else reading this can also facilitate economic development and land
piece. Books and reports have been published, reform, and unlock much needed forex earnings,
and commission after commission have looked into thereby contributing significantly to SA’s fiscus.
various scandals and aspects of state capture and However, despite this potential, a lack of direction
self-enrichment at an unprecedented scale. But to and political will prevails, preventing our nation from
what end? thriving. An enabling environment that includes
The state of a country is encapsulated in its interna- better trade regimes and access to key current and
tional credit rating. This is a credit rating agency’s new markets will in itself ensure a “pull effect”.
evaluation of the economic and political aspects Enhanced investor confidence will lead to new plant-
of a country that directly impact its investment risk ings, which – linked to land reform with the result-
profile. Here, we fail big-time. This is apart from ant jobs, rural stability and inflow of money – will
lagging with regard to many other indices published, establish a vibrant and prosperous country.
on a range of aspects. I have no doubt that the current generation – not only
The evaluation by two international credit rating in agriculture, but all sectors – is keen and committed
agencies has declared us as below investment to creating that better future for coming generations.
grade. A third – Moody’s – rates us at Baa3, the In order to move forward, we need to focus and
lowest notch for investment grade. According to capitalise on the things we have in common.
economists, at this level we’ve dodged the bullet of The current Baa3 rating places us in a precarious
‘junk status’ for now. position economically, and it’s going to take time
If you’re still in doubt as to how SA’s really doing, and significant political will to attempt recovery.
look at the morale of the nation, as a gauge. Morale May this country’s leadership, and we as a collective
is described as “the level of confidence, enthusiasm, community draw a line in the sand ensuring that
and discipline of a person or group at a particular we turn away from the infamous Baa3 status – and
time”. South Africans have been bleating about everything else that may be holding SA ransom.
6 SA VRUGTEJOERNAAL | JUNIE/JULIE 2019
SUCCESS IS
CULTIVATED
it doesn’t just happen
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JUNE/JULY 2019 | SA FRUIT JOURNAL 7
The Packhouse Action Group (PAG) has appointed a
cross-industry work group with the objective to
investigate the effects of plastic use, and with a view to
develop a strategy that will direct the industry towards
reduced plastic use. ELISE-MARIE STEENKAMP
T
his proactive step is in line with other international initiatives made from organic material. Corn flour, by-products of sugar cane
to reduce the use of plastic throughout the value chain. and other food waste are used to make packaging. Unfortunately,
The use of plastics creates a paradoxical problem for the these are often ruled out as viable alternatives by the cost; and
fresh produce industry worldwide: on the one hand, it improves their downstream impact on the environment and the value chain.
shelf life and food safety, thereby reducing food waste; however, So, though we haven’t yet found a definitive alternative to plastics,
it perpetuates pollution, which is why the industry is constantly a continued holistic approach and a global green economy could
exploring smart alternatives. remedy some of the negative effects of plastic-use.
For the past 20 years retailers have tried to remove, replace,
reduce and recycle plastics. Some retailers even have coupon Going naked
systems to encourage consumers to recycle plastics. Though
Plastic-free stores, where people have to bring along their
they’ve made headway, we have a long way to go.
own baskets and bags and buy fresh produce off the shelf, are
Industry has indicated its commitment to change, but changes have springing up everywhere. This throw-back 1960s trend is certainly
to be practical and financially viable for everyone. We have to bear in having a positive impact, but industry representatives do not yet
mind that fruit is alive and dynamic, therefore it reacts to packaging. see it as the silver bullet. Currently, plastics provide what consum-
One of the alternatives that commerce has looked at is packing ers mostly want: quality products and convenience.
PLASTIC RESIN CODES
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
PETE HDPE V LDPE PP PS OTHER
Polyethylene High Density Vinyl Low Density Polypropylene Polystyrene Other
Terephthalate Polyethylene CLEAR FOOD Polyethylene SAUCE BOTTLES MEAT TRAYS SAUCE BOTTLES
SODA, WATER & JUICE MILK, JUICE BOTTLES PACKAGING BREAD BAGS, YOGURT & MARGARINE EGG CARTONS 3 & 5 LITRE
SHAMPOO & YOGURT, MARGARINE SHAMPOO BOTTLES FROZEN FOOD BAGS TUBS CUPS & PLATES WATER BOTTLES
MOUTHWASH BOTTLES TUBS, GROCERY BAGS SQUEEZABLE BOTTLES SOME JUICE BOTTLES
8 BEDRYFSNUUS | JUNIE/JULIE 2019Some of the new environmentally-friendly packaging products that are currently being assessed. Photographs: Carmé Naudé
As an industry, what can we do? requires a holistic view of the whole value chain – it’s not just
retailers, consumers, industries or governments. And educating
It’s simple: use less plastic. This is the PAG’s stance. Re-design-
everyone on an ongoing basis is vital.
ing packaging material to use less plastic is an option. There’s
been some success with specifically a new clamshell punnet The PAG relies on the task team to help ensure a reduction in the
design, which uses 4 grams less plastic per punnet. use of plastic, or that it’s reused or channelled into the recycling
chain. Ultimately, the solution has to achieve a balance between
Plastic also has to become biodegradable and compostable;
cost-effectiveness and demonstrated environmental awareness.
it has to be able to go into one of the seven recycling chains.
And consumers have to be educated about these recycling
chains. They must, for example, understand what the triangular Plastics by numbers and what it means:
arrow sign and the numbering system on plastic mean. One way The ASTM International Resin Identification Coding System is a
of educating consumers is to illustrate the recycling chains as set of symbols that appear on plastic products (See infographic
artwork on the packaging. opposite). They identify the plastic resin out of which products
Another packaging recommendation for the industry is to limit are made. The system was developed in 1988 by the Society of
the use of filler such as calcium, as it upsets the recycling chain. the Plastics Industry (now the Plastics Industry Association) in the
Other possibilities are: United States, but has been administered by ASTM International,
• Using clamshell punnets only, instead of an open plastic an international standards organisation since 2008.
punnet with a heat seal flow-wrap on top, as the latter cannot be
Sources: https://www.britannica.com/science/plastic-pollution
recycled. https://ourworldindata.org/plastic-pollution
https://www.plasticsindustry.org/
• Using netting in packaging, such as net fruit bags, or netting
http://www.plasticsinfo.co.za/
on one side of a bag.
It’s clear that attempting to solve the problem around plastic
Digesting the plastic problem
Plastics have infiltrated our lives. Toothpaste, shoes, clothes, lotions, potions, bedding,
cars, medicine, food – yes food too – all contain some derivative of plastics. Once
hailed as the solution to everything, this revolutionary material has become the biggest
contaminator on earth. It threatens our waterways, soils, atmosphere and human
health. This is a problem our planet just cannot digest.
Plastic pollution is everywhere, from the highest mountain peaks to the deepest ocean
trenches and it’s become a bone of contention in the global environmental narrative.
But let’s take a step back in time. In 1907, the invention of Bakelite – a synthetic resin – processing difficulties, plastics have a low recovery rate,
changed the world of commerce for ever. Strong and pliable and derived mainly from which makes it difficult to reuse or recycle them. Effective
oil, plastics can be moulded, cast, spun or applied as a coating. It opened up a world of re-cycling rates vary dramatically from country to country.
possibilities for the manufacturing sector. Because plastics were specifically developed Currently, only northern European countries are achieving
to prevent natural decay, they don’t degrade in natural environments. Within the span rates in excess of 50 percent. This means that, in the best
of a century the Messiah of materials has turned into the biggest villain. case scenario, at least half of the plastics produced are
How did this happen? disposed of improperly, which perpetuates pollution.
Easily, writes Charles Moore in an essay on plastic pollution. Due to significant (Source: https://www.britannica.com/science/plastic-pollution)
JUNE/JULY 2019 | INDUSTRY NEWS 9PHOTOGRAPHS BY CARMÉ NAUDÉ
Team effort. Representatives from the City of Cape Town, Tru-Cape and Hortgro helped to plant the tree. From left Nicola Jowell,
Matthew Kempthorne, Zahid Badroodien, Buks Nel, Brandon Golding, Henk Griessel, Frederik Voigt and Nicholas Dicey.
COMPANY’S GARDEN
reclaims a piece of its history
The return of the first apple tree planted in the iconic Company’s Garden in the late 1650s
is a remarkable story, made possible through a partnership between Tru-Cape, Hortgro
and the Cape Heritage Fund.
M
ore than a decade ago, Tru-Cape Quality Assurance a part of it. It reminds us once more of the rich heritage of the
Manager, Henk Griessel and his colleague, Buks Nel, Company’s Garden, but also the importance of the fruit industry.
the company’s New Variety Expert, started researching The Witte Wijnappel tree will take its place among other heritage
the history of apples, which culminated in a book entitled Apples varieties at the axis of the irrigation channel in the Company’s
in the Early Days at The Cape. According to historical records, Garden," said Councillor Zahid Badroodien, Mayoral Committee
the Witte Wijnappel was the first apple picked in the Company’s Member for Community Services and Health.
Garden on 17 April, 1662. The tree-planting ceremony is not coincidental, as Tru-Cape notes
and celebrates 17 April as the official birth of the apple industry.
"The replanting of the Witte Wijnappel is a historic moment in the
What’s happened to the tree since 1662? South African fruit industry and so it is fitting that it happened
After a period of exhaustive research, the duo tracked down the on this particular day. It would not have been possible without
Witte Wijnappel tree in the Netherlands. Budwood of the Witte the extensive efforts of Henk Griessel and Buks Nel, who are
Wijnappel from which a new tree could be grown, was imported passionate about what they do and veterans in the industry.
and after spending a considerable period in quarantine, is ready We are extremely proud of their work," said Tru-Cape Fruit
for planting. Marketing Managing Director, Roelf Pienaar.
"This is a remarkable story and the City is so honoured to be Hortgro’s Executive Director, Anton Rabe added: "We are really
10 BEDRYFSNUUS | JUNIE/JULIE 2019The Witte Wijnappel back in the Company’s Garden. Tru-Cape’s Henk Griessel and Buks Nel; and Hortgro’s Chairman,
Nicholas Dicey, toasting the new ‘old’ apple tree.
proud to be part in this initiative to bring the historical plant industry. The industry also ensures food security, infrastructure
material back to South African soil. With this gesture we are development and foreign trade. We have a global relevance
honouring the founding roots of the apple industry some and we’re considered a leading player with regards to the
357 years ago. Today, the impact on and contribution of the quality and taste of our products, ethical trade and environmen-
apple industry to the modern rural economies of the Western tally sustainable production practices."
Cape and the rest of the country is vast. We contribute to The City of Cape Town, Tru-Cape, Hortgro and the Cape Heritage
rural development by creating more than 61 000 jobs and a Fund will collectively manage the maintenance and development
further 243 649 dependents are impacted by the success of the of the apple tree.
4 – 6 Sep 2019
ASIA FRUIT
LOGISTICA
Fairpros Ltd.
P.O. Box 803 ∙ Port Louis ∙ Mauritius
Tel +27 (0)21 3007652 ∙ Fax +49 (0)30 98320382
info@fairpros.com www.asiafruitlogistica.com
JUNE/JULY 2019 | INDUSTRY NEWS 11PROCURING ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
to solve industry problems
ELISE-MARIE STEENKAMP
Recently, a team from Hortgro met with
Stellenbosch University (SU) Rector,
Prof. Wim de Villiers and his senior
management team to align the strategic
goals of both parties.
H
ortgro’s current investment in research projects and funded
posts at SU amounts to R19,1 million, which includes 44 post-
graduate bursaries valued at R3,4 million. In addition, Hortgro
has donated towards capital developments like insectaries and cold
room facilities that support research at SU.
Hortgro Science General Manager, Hugh Campbell noted the historic
significance of the relationship between the deciduous fruit industry and
SU. “The two complement one another on many levels. One area of
concern to us as an industry is the maintenance and succession planning
Senior management teams from Hortgro and SU met at of posts that are critical to the deciduous fruit industry. Agriculture is an
Lanzerac Hotel in Stellenbosch. applied science and we need people at the university who know and
understand the industry,” Campbell said.
IN NUMBERS: “We see ourselves as a strategic partner and in the
• Hortgro’s current investment in research process of meeting our industry needs, we also address
projects and funded posts at SU:
many of the university’s strategic outcomes.”
R19,1 million
• The value of 44 postgraduate bursaries “The deciduous fruit industry needs well-educated graduates who can
included in the above mentioned: solve industry problems in future. Applied researchers and technical
experts are great assets for the industry.”
R3,4 million
Campbell pointed out that Hortgro could enhance SU’s strategic frame-
work and its 2040 vision of “forward together.” “We see ourselves as a
strategic partner and in the process of meeting our industry needs, we
also address many of the university’s strategic outcomes.
“It is important for us that SU’s agriculture faculty maintains and grows
its standards and focus on the development of specialists that can be
absorbed into the industry. We need to know that we can grow our
investment in research and people. In the end, research follows people,”
Campbell said.
12 BEDRYFSNUUS | JUNIE/JULIE 2019KINGJAMES 43707
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JUNE/JULY 2019 | INDUSTRY NEWS 13
Santam is an authorised financial services provider (licence number 3416).SPONSORSHIP AND SMALL-FARMER SUPPORT –
Gino Pedals His Way to the
Cape Town Cycle Tour GRETHE BESTBIER
Gino-Louw Green is a young man with boundless grit, drive and physical strength.
His love for cycling started when he was just a little boy with ‘legs of steel’.
This love grew over hundreds of kilometers cycled and culminated in a dream come
true for this worker from Hierbegin Farm: cycling in the 2019 Cape Town Cycle Tour.
T
his 21 year old, originally from Keimoes in he moved to Malmesbury in the Western Cape with his mother, Sarina and
the Northern Cape, had a childhood that stepfather.
was mostly difficult. At the age of two, By the fourth grade, Gino had started standing out as the star of the Swartland
Primary rugby team. But circumstances forced the family to move back to
Keimoes in the middle of his school year, where they stayed with Gino’s uncle.
It’s here that his love for cycling was sparked.
Watching his uncle – a passionate cyclist – dressed in his cycling gear, cleaning his
bicycle with great care sparked Gino’s interest in the sport. At the age of 11, he
asked his uncle if he could ride with him, but he considered Gino to be too young.
In 2013, Gino completed his high school career at Oranjezicht High School, the
same year in which his uncle cycled in the Cape Town Cycle Tour (better known
as the ‘Argus’), for the first time. Seeing his uncle’s face in the newspaper was
the final motivational push Gino needed to turn his cycling dreams into a reality.
With everything in him, Gino wanted to follow in these inspirational tracks.
After school, he started working as a general worker at Hierbegin Farm in
Keimoes. Selling Gino his first bicycle, a blue Silverback, his uncle gave him the
kick-start he’d needed. Every Sunday after that the two of them cycled along
the Kenhardt road. Getting fit, building up stamina and learning the tricks of the
trade gave Gino the confidence to enter his first competition – a 30 km mountain
biking race in Upington.
For Gino, it was a nerve-racking experience. There were so many rivals, but he
was the only one not wearing the appropriate cycling gear. When he was upset by
people laughing at him, his uncle encouraged him to just stay focussed and to do
his best. He finished fourth, which put a muzzle on the naysayers.
That day, someone gave him brand-new Ferguson cycling gear and told him to
never stop cycling. The fact that he was talented was undeniable. In 2015 and
2016, Gino took part in the Kalahari Kuierfees mountain biking competition and
fared brilliantly, once again.
He’s kept at his training and this year his dedication, consistency and resilience
paid off when his ultimate dream came true: cycling in the Cape Town Cycle
Tour. InnofruitSA (Pty) Ltd, Raisins SA and Hierbegin Farm all sponsored Gino.
He received a brand-new Avalanche Solo bicycle, new gear and clothing. The
14 BEDRYFSNUUS | JUNIE/JULIE 2019– BIG DREAMS OFTEN COME IN SMALL PACKAGES
Big Dreams for
Small Farmers
Emerging growers are an integral part of the
agricultural sector’s transformation and
sustainability goals, hence InnoFruitSA’s focus
on the development of small farmers.
T
his BEE company can rightly be described as a small busi-
ness that enables other small businesses to thrive in ways
that are profitable, constructive and sustainable. "Inno-
FruitSA gives farmers the opportunity to reach their full potential
“There are farmers who we helped in 2018 and this year, who’s
in their farming practices,” says Desiree Adams, executive director
production income nearly tripled from 7 651 tons last year to
of InnoFruitSA.
22 000 tons in 2019,” says Adams.
With a passion for the growth of small, medium and micro-sized
Through these valuable partnerships, as well as submitting appli-
enterprises (SMME), InnoFruitSA focusses on areas such as skills
cations for funding to various sources, InnoFruitSA manages to
and knowledge transfer; literacy improvement; poverty allevia-
support expanding farming and business enterprises’ agricultural
tion; technical, financial and administrative support and new
projects goals. They focus on creating entry points in the value
business development for women and the youth.
chain for small farmers by investing in equipment, processing
This private company strives to help new emerging farmers to plants, and infrastructure.
rise to a point of excellence. To get there, they believe, a holistic
“InnoFruitSA is a registered credit provider and offers farmers
approach is critical: farmers need to be skilled and knowledge-
production and harvesting loans throughout the year,” says
able, as well as financially, spiritually, emotionally and physically
Adams. “Without this help, there are many farmers who cannot
equipped to turn their enterprise into a success. Part of this
collect their crops and suffer serious losses.”
approach is involving the farmer’s support system – husband, wife,
children, and extended family – in the development of the farmer This small company is already making a big impact, and according
and the farm. to Adams, they’re just getting started.
An important aspect of supporting farmers and their enterprises is “InnoFruitSA is still in its growth phase,” says Adams. “There is
building strong networks with partners in the industry. InnoFruit- still much more in the pipeline that we can offer our clients in the
SA’s majority shareholders have contacts in the public and private future, not only in the Northern Cape, but also in the Western
sector, which they make use of to forge beneficial partnerships. Cape where we are currently doing business. We also want to
Their strategy has proven to be a great success thus far. expand to the Eastern Cape.”
support he’s been given has made it possible for Gino to reach And where to from here? Those 'legs of steel' are far from tired,
his dream and for that, he says, he is extremely grateful. Finish- it seems. His next dream is to take part in the Tour De France,
ing 342st in his age group, and 13 270st from the total of 23 034 says Gino, and he will do whatever it takes to get there one day.
cyclists, his time of 05:02:49 seconds is a major achievement. For For now, the Telkom 947 Cycling Challenge in Johannesburg
Gino, it was a memorable and exciting experience to compete on 17 November 2019 is next on the list, provided he receives
against the best cyclists in the world. sponsorship.
JUNE/JULY 2019 | INDUSTRY NEWS 15THE STELLENBOSCH INSECTARY
A Hive of Activity GRETHE BESTBIER
A facility at Welgevallen Experimental Farm in Stellenbosch is teeming with thousands of
moths, worms, flies and other insects. They’re bred annually to ensure an adequate
supply to the industry, for applied research in the area of pest control.
The start-up days Named Entomon Technologies (Pty) Ltd., the insectary mass
produced sterilised codling moth colonies as part of an area-
In 2012, the insectary was launched, after completion of a pilot project
wide integrated pest management (IPM) tool for the pome
on the management of codling moth (CM), run by Matthew Addison,
fruit industry. In December 2014 Hortgro donated the facility
Hortgro Science Crop Protection Manager. Once sterilised, this major
to Stellenbosch University’s (SU) Faculty of AgriScience
pome fruit pest could be released to control kindred populations in the
for further pest management research. This came after a
Western Cape orchards. Hortgro Pome funded the development of the
decision was made by the Hortgro Pome board not to invest
initial phase of a commercial insectary valued at R4,6 million.
beyond the initial phase of development, as there was not
enough of an appetite for the technology.
Hortgro Science’s Terence Asia currently manages the
facility, which he previously co-managed with Dr. Daleen
Stenekamp. Asia recalls the Entomon days well when steri-
lised moths were produced daily and released in different
areas such as Grabouw, Worcester and Ceres.
“Sterile Insect Release (SIR) is initially more expensive, if it’s
used in combination with mating disruption,” says Asia about
why it was halted. “Another factor was that SIR is a long-term
strategy and farmers prefer quick results.
What is the facility used for now?
Currently, the facility is in the hands of the SU Faculty of
AgriScience. It is used for IPM research by the Department
INSIST ON ONLY THE of Conservation Ecology and Entomology with a focus on
BEST!!!
arthropod pest management in deciduous fruits, citrus,
and sugar cane. Previously, this type of research had to be
conducted in inadequate laboratory facilities, which limited
the growth and development of strategic research.
INSIST ON AN APAC REGISTERED AGENT!! Asia says that in terms of pest control, the farmer’s number
Get paid within 5 working days one priority is to manage the insects. For the entomologist,
Get your communication within 5 working days however, there are other focusses: investigating the insect’s
Do you get this from an unregistered agent? lifecycle, its preferences, its triggers, what it does, when and
why?
“For us, getting to understand the insect better is the main
AGRICULTURAL PRODUCE AGENTS COUNCIL priority,” says Asia. “If you understand the pest, you can
www.apacweb.org.za control it.”
According to Dr Pia Addison, senior lecturer at the Depart-
16 BEDRYFSNUUS | JUNIE/JULIE 2019ment of Conservation Ecology and Entomology, IPM research
conducted at the insectary involves exploring alternate methods
of pest control, with reduced synthetic pesticide inputs. The Terence Asia and Dr. Pia Addison.
facility itself is used for large scale production of various insect
colonies. These colonies include codling moth, Lobesia, fruit
previously researchers could not sustain a colony of snout beetle,
flies, wax moth and mealybug, which are produced all year
which limited the type of research they were able to do. Daleen
round at the insectary. The overall aim is to further develop
developed a technique to sustain the snout beetle in an insectary,
expertise in key strategic areas of IPM and mostly, to develop
which, in turn, presented the opportunity to work on its different
sustainable IPM practices, says Addison.
life stages. Thanks to an expert on the inside, we now have the
expertise to maintain a colony.
Value to the industry “Entomon, which produced codling moth on a continuous basis,
The insectary plays a vital role in the deciduous fruit industry, provided constant material at all the different life stages, which
providing critical laboratory space to meet the requirements of provided material for the entomopathogenic research by Dr.
applied research projects. The codling moth colony allows for Antoinette Malan. The initiative was almost entirely funded by
the early development of EPNs (entomopathogenic nematodes), Hortgro. We employed the staff and provided the funding for
researching mass culture methods and biological control agents. the maintenance of the facility. One or two other industries
Whereas the weevil colony enables the development of entomo- made very small contributions, for selected insects. Without
pathogens under laboratory conditions and field applications. The Hortgro employing the people nothing would have happened,”
fruit fly colony (Medfly) assesses various field-collected EPNs and says Campbell.
EPF (entomopathogenic fungi), and this research is now ready for
field application.
What next?
The facility also benefits students, giving them a hands-on
According to Matthew Addison, the focus is on research and the
understanding of the insect during its different life cycles. Once an
development of biological control agents (e.g. mealybug parasi-
insect species is successfully produced, several applied research
toids), as well as sterile insect production. “The facility is unique
projects can take place, for example, research on determining life
in that it is a functional large-scale insectary, but it is up to the
table parameters, physiology, taxonomy and assessing biological
industry to determine how well it is utilised,” he says. Asia himself
control agents.
has high hopes for the facility.
The insectary plays a vital role in the deciduous When asked what his dream would be for the facility if he had
fruit industry, providing critical laboratory space to unlimited resources, he excitedly answers: “More insects.”
meet the requirements of applied research projects. “I mean, a greater variety of insects. Every insect displays a
different type of behaviour.” Earlier, they had a problem with
Lobesia moths. The moths were kept in bottles but would not lay
Creating an enabler eggs. What to do? They put the bottles in natural light and voila,
The key value of the insectary is that it is an enabler, says Hugh everything functioned normally again. “A new piece of informa-
Campbell, Hortgro Science’s General Manager. “It enables tion was discovered. It’s the small
research on insects through its different life stages. For example, things that make my work interesting.”
JUNE/JULY 2019 | INDUSTRY NEWS 17Research Game Changer for
PINCUSHION FLOWER INDUSTRY
T
he overseas flower market would pay a premium for long-stemmed
pincushions that are void of any curvature, insects or signs of disease.
But producing such flowers is easier said than done. Depending on the
cultivar, SA fynbos farmers are currently only able to export between 40%
and 80% of the local harvest. But, thanks to new research on growth regulators by
Eugenie-Lien Louw, a doctoral student at Stellenbosch University (SU), the cultiva-
tion of pincushions with short or crooked stems might be something of the past. Her
research is hailed by some in the local fynbos industry as a "game changer".
Louw is studying horticulture at SU and focusses on the cultivation of fynbos
plants. Her findings are significant for the fynbos industry, as pincushion
(Leucospermum) cultivars comprise 46% of all fynbos exports from SA.
In addition to farms in the Western Cape (especially in the Boland, the Overberg,
the West Coast and the Cederberg), pincushions are also grown in KwaZulu-Natal
around Eshowe and Hilton.
Straight-stemmed flowers
According to Louw, timing is important when applying the right combination
of two growth regulators, ProGibb® and Promalin®. In the process pincushion
bushes grow much more upright, rather than becoming bushy.
Growth regulators occur naturally in plants and control all aspects of their growth
and development. ProGibb® is a natural version, while Promalin® is synthetic.
Similar products have been used successfully for years by table grape and citrus
farmers. Louw's research is the first to show that such products can be used
successfully on pincushions, on a commercial scale.
The mixture must be sprayed before pincushion stems reach 10 cm in height.
This ensures that an ideal export stem height of between 60 to 70 cm is achieved
as a rule, rather than the exception. The stems also enjoy good, continuous and
uniform coverage of smaller plant leaves, with well-formed flower heads.
"You see very few crooked stems per plant, if the mixture is applied correctly and
in time," explains Louw.
Industry response
Louw already communicated her findings to the local fynbos industry during the
recent annual general meeting of Cape Flora SA, and at two International Protea
Association (IPA) conferences in Australia and SA.
Some local producers, especially in KwaZulu-Natal and the West Coast, are
already following her advice, with some referring to the treatment as "Eugenie's
Magic Mix". Many reckon that the input cost is worth it in relation to the positive
impact on their bottom line.
18 BEDRYFSNUUS | JUNIE/JULIE 2019FEEDBACK FROM THE INDUSTRY
• "This is a game changer for our industry, and will benefit
producers directly,"
Research
Neil Hall of Philadelphia farm outside Citrusdal.
Before Louw was able to test the use of growth regulators, she
had to do a thorough study of exactly how Leucospermum • "It could have a significant positive effect on the profit-
plants grow and develop. This is the first time that such a study ability of certain Leucospermum cultivars."
was conducted on pincushions in such detail. Similar informa- Hans Hettasch, owner of Arnelia Farms outside Hopefield.
tion is available for protea species. • “It was used successfully in Hilton, Eshowe and
"If one knows how the plant grows, one can know how to Citrusdal on cultivars that typically have problems with stem
manipulate it correctly," she explains. height. In most cases, the plants have shown an extra
Louw's research follows on her work as technical manager of 30 cm of growth. The plants grow much more upright
Arnelia Farms outside Hopefield. Her studies were conducted than what we are used to.”
under the leadership of Dr. Lynn Hoffman and Prof. Gerard Kerry Rowlands, Zuluflora's technical manager.
Jacobs of the Department of Horticultural Science at SU. It
was partly funded by Arnelia Farms and the Alternative Crop
Fund of the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, which is
administered by Cape Flora SA.
Depending on the cultivar, SA fynbos farmers
are currently only able to export between 40%
and 80% of the local harvest.
Her trials on the use of growth regulators were done on a
semi-commercial scale. They were conducted since 2013, over
five seasons on Arnelia Farms near Hopefield and Pomona farm
at Piket-Bo-Berg. Tests were done on two cultivars, Succession
II and Soleil. SUCCESSION II is the most popular pincushion cultivar
grown in SA. This is partly because the plants generally
Louw tested the influence of growth regulators under different
deliver flowers on nice long stems.
climatic conditions. She found, among other things, that it is
Around 3,6 million bright orange 'Succession II' flower
better to mix the two growth regulators rather than to spray
heads were exported in 2017/18.
them separately.
In warmer areas, the plants tend to carry stems of varying
For inquiries, please contact Eugenie-Lien Louw at eugenie@
lengths. Therefore, the addition of Louw's treatment on this
arnelia.co.za.
cultivar can benefit producers in warmer regions.
Advice to pincushion producers SOLEIL is a yellow cultivar that is becoming increasingly
popular. Over the past six seasons, exports have risen
• Spray plants when vegetative buds begin to swell and before
from 300 000 to 1,5 million.
the young stems reach a length of more than 10 cm.
Growth regulator treatment has a significant impact on the
• The treatment should be sprayed three times within a six-
delivery of flowers with suited stems.
week period.
• A mixture of the two products works best.
• A concentration that’s too strong could burn the shoot tips.
• Extra plant nutrition/ fertiliser may be needed in some cases. ENGELA DUVENAGE
JUNE/JULY 2019 | INDUSTRY NEWS 19CAPE FLORA invests in
emerging businesses
GLENNEIS KRIEL
C
ape Flora’s affinity for small businesses is clear in their continued quest
for innovative ways to help small-scale fynbos entrepreneurs realise their
business dreams. “Since our funding is quite limited, our strategy is aimed
at unlocking these entrepreneurs’ full potential. We hope to do this by empower-
ing them with knowledge and linking them with strong networks,” says Jacky
Goliath, Cape Flora SA’s director responsible for their transformation portfolio.
To this end, Cape Flora SA hosted a two-day information session in March last
year that was attended by close to twenty potential small-scale fynbos entrepre-
neurs. On day one, attendees visited a fynbos farm, nursery and packhouse near
the airport to give them a glimpse of the workings and all the opportunities within
the supply chain. The next day saw industry experts share technical information
about fynbos propagation, cultivation, pest and disease management, as well as
the fynbos market.
A needs survey conducted during the session revealed a strong demand for busi-
ness skills development, which Cape Flora addressed through a business training
session with business coach, Basil Myners, in September last year.
“Being an entrepreneur myself, I realised that our efforts would only pay off if the
businesses we serve were founded on sound business principles – from business
planning and cash flow management to sustainable business practices, produc-
tion legalities and staff management,” Jacky says.
Aspiring producers
So far, Cape Flora’s efforts are making a difference. Theo Adams who farms near
Harold, only attended the information session, but it was enough to help him
secure an export market for future production. After the session Cape Flora SA
also funded consultations with industry expert Dr. Gerhard Malan, to help Theo
establish his own plantations.
Hops had been cultivated on the farm they bought, which they want to replace
with indigenous crops, such as honey bush and fynbos that would blend in and
match the natural beauty of Harold. “With Gerhard’s guidance, we planted 2 ha
of proteas in September and intend to plant another 4 ha this year,” Theo says.
The information session also inspired Elizabeth Hartzenberg, known as Libbie to
her friends, to take her business to the next level: “I bought a farm near Hope-
field in 2015 and initially made ends meet through small-scale pig production. My
interest in fynbos was sparked when I met a flower entrepreneur. Attending Cape
Flora’s first information session and seeing the workings of the supply chain made
me realise that I could succeed in this business.”
After the information session, Elizabeth started harvesting the abundant
fynbos growing naturally on her land, which she supplies to a wholesaler, and
20 BEDRYFSNUUS | JUNIE/JULIE 2019Right: Emerging business owners with a dream.
approached Cape Flora SA for help to establish
her own plantations. Cape Flora SA helped her
get soil and water analyses done to determine
the viability of fynbos production and to identify
the best varieties to plant on the farm, and
funded consultations with Dr. Malan to ensure
she was on the right track from the start of her
production journey.
“I am set to plant 5 ha of fynbos, but have to
get an environmental impact assessment (EIA)
done if I want to plant more. My dream is to break into the export WhatsApp groups, allowing entrepreneurs to share ideas, discuss
market and by doing so, create jobs in Hopefield so that the farm issues and ultimately complement one another’s trade: “These
may become a safe haven, especially for women,” she says. groups are great. If you have an oversupply of a product, for
Elizabeth also benefitted from the business skills development example, someone may be able to buy the product to add value
training: “I was genuinely unaware of all the resources available to their existing offering. This way we are helping each other
out there, to help small businesses realise their potential and the grow,” Leslie-Ann says.
various ways in which businesses could improve their marketing
performance.” “I was genuinely unaware of all the resources
available out there, to help small businesses realise
Wild harvesters their potential and the various ways in which
For Loretta Afrikaner from TJ Agulhas Flowers, the business training businesses could improve their
once again highlighted the impact of sustainable harvesting on the marketing performance.”
viability of a flower picking business. “One of the first things I did
when I got home, was to run through the fynbos industry’s code of Cape Flora also supported her by giving her R27 000 worth of
best practices for wild harvesters with my staff, to ensure we were shears and machines for strapping and labelling. “In the past I
all on the same page. Fynbos is our main source of income. We’d had to print each label and stick it to the flower packaging with
be out of jobs without flowers to pick,” she says. sellotape. Having self-adhesive labels makes my flowers look
To give her business a boost, Cape Flora SA also supplied Loretta much more professional and sophisticated.”
with R25 000 worth of pruning shears and worker uniforms. Leslie-Ann started Pieters’ Flowers along with her husband in July
“These Felco shears, which are way too expensive to buy out of 2018, after she hit a rut in the flower business where she’d worked
my own pocket, allow my team to work much faster and more for more than ten years. Pieters’ Flowers started out with her
efficiently,” she says. acquiring a picking permit to pick fynbos in Elim that she supplied
Loretta started her own picking business in 2016 when Flower to local vendors, with the ones in Adderley Street in Cape Town
Valley Conservation Trust sought someone to manage an inde- being her first clients.
pendent team that picks fynbos at Flower Valley near Gansbaai. She met a Chinese exporter via Cape Flora in November,
For now, her plan is to buy another bakkie to expand her picking through whom she is now selling flowers on the Chinese market.
team, which currently consists of 12 employees, and to deliver “The fynbos has been received well in China and the exporter
more flowers to packhouses: “In 2016 I had to get rid of one of has sent me photos for a better understanding of the demand in
my two bakkies, which was dilapidated and too expensive to fix this market. Where the European market prefers natural looking
when the engine failed.” flowers, the Chinese really like bright colours,” she says.
In the case of Leslie-Ann Pieters of Pieters Flowers, the business train- Leslie-Ann dreams of going big one day: “There is this saying: ‘Go
ing highlighted the importance of committing your goals to paper big or go home’, well I don’t want to go home. I want to link up
and having a solid business plan, especially when you want to access with the right people, buy my own land and plant my own fynbos
funding. She also made valuable connections during the session. so that I can create a business that makes a difference by creating
After the information sessions Cape Flora SA started different new jobs and boosting the Elim economy,” she says.
JUNE/JULY 2019 | INDUSTRY NEWS 21BY GERRIT RAUTENBACH
Ou Stasie is located where Mitchell’s Pass begins, just outside the town of Wolseley, on your right.
They cultivate peaches, pears, nectarines, and plums. It’s on this farm that 41-year old Liz Fortuin
was born: a remarkable woman. She truly validates the old adage, “Fortune favours the brave”.
Love changes everything Helping other people has always been a big thing for Liz.
At 16, Liz fell hopelessly in love with Moses Fortuin and fell pregnant Just after she turned 20, Werner du Plessis joined Ou Stasie as
soon thereafter. Forced to leave school, while Moses completed his general manager. This is when Liz’s life changed, for the better,
matric, Liz became a working mom at the age of 17. Thankfully, her when Werner discovered her real potential.
own mom was there to help raise the baby boy, Marlon. “Wouldn’t you like to go and study further?” quizzed Werner.
Liz’s first job was as a general worker on the farm. “O yes, if only I could. But I have a child to look after. I must work.
“At first I knew nothing about farming. I didn’t really want to I need the money,” was Liz’s stoic reply.
know. But after Marlon, I had to learn –and fast. AW Steenkamp Being naturally nurturing, she told Werner that if she could go
was the manager then and Edward Adams a supervisor. They and study, she’d choose nursing or teaching. Agriculture, which is
taught me how to pick fruit and carry a picking bag – almost what Werner had in mind for Liz, was just not on the cards.
everything, except pruning. In the hopes of getting her to change her mind, he promoted Liz
“I still remember, one of the first things Edward got into my head to supervisor of the sapling team. So, Liz started envisioning a
was discipline. No matter how cold or wet it is, the starting time possible future in farming. To clinch the deal, Werner enrolled her
is the starting time. Lunch was an hour from half past one. Every for an NQF1 (National Qualifications Framework) qualification.
day, at twenty-five past two I was ready to fall in again.”
The power of knowledge
The tide turns One night, whilst attending a lecture, she found out about Adult
Liz was then promoted to the sapling team, learning to prune and Basic Education and Training (ABET), which enables adults to
nip. It wasn’t an easy task to learn, but she persevered. She also obtain their matric. She, however, had to redo grade 11 before
helped the other women in the team, where she could. she could move on to matric. So, while doing her NQF1, she
22 BEDRYFSNUUS | JUNIE/JULIE 2019enrolled for grade 11 and passed both. She did
so well with NQF1 that she was allowed to go
straight to NQF4.
Liz continued to navigate the juggle between her
evening classes from seven to ten in Ceres, and
her demanding farming job. Bear in mind, harvest
time starts at 06:30, sharp. She showed up.
Because the NQF4 syllabus focused on agricul-
ture, it was much easier to do well in that than
with her matric work. All course content related
to the farm and Liz had help and support from
everybody there. She even had Rachelle Agenbag, the reception- The ship hadn’t sailed
ist, deciphering and editing her cursive notes for assignments. Liz passed her matric with an exemption at the age of 38. It may
Danie du Plessis, Werner’s successor also spent hours helping Liz be 20 years later than her peers, but she knew that it’s never too
to understand her course content. She accepted all this help gladly late to get an education. She’s now got so used to the long hours
and gracefully, knowing deep down that her time would come to and late nights studying that she wants to carry on.
pay it forward. “Maybe Law … who knows? I like the idea of defending other
people,” she says excitedly.
Increased responsibility And the future?
Just after she obtained her NQF1 in 2008, Werner promoted
Liz again, this time, to be the first-ever forewoman at Ou “Just after she obtained her NQF1 in 2008,
Stasie. No mean feat. Up until then, she had been working
Werner promoted Liz again, this time, to becoming the
side-by-side with the guys. She was their boss now, and
therefore, a threat. Her team was made up mainly of a mix of first-ever forewoman at Ou Stasie.”
traditional men from various backgrounds, who didn’t take
orders from women. “God willing, I might be promoted – maybe even to a manager’s
“What are you doing here? We don’t need you!” position. Going up in the ranks, you learn more. You get qualified
to help other people more. But agriculture is a hard life. If you lose
She told them that it wasn’t her choice to be their forewoman, that
focus, you get left behind. Don’t try and be too clever. Every day
management had promoted her and that it was up to them what
you can learn something new from someone.”
they were going to do about it. If you asked Liz what swayed her
co-workers, she’d tell you it’s her surprisingly loud, authoritative
voice. Then, she’d laugh in her characteristic soft chuckle. It’s how you finish
“No, actually it was just that, every time I saw somebody battling An unplanned pregnancy, two additional sons (Colin and Ivaan)
with something and I had the knowledge, I shared it with him. I and a growing farming career later, this 41-year old is happily
helped him, empowered him. Everything I have learnt studying, I married to Moses, the father of their children. How differently
shared with them. Slowly, I won their confidence. Over time they things could’ve panned out had Liz given up on her future, or
realised that, by working with me, we all do better. But they’re still refused the kick-start she was so generously offered by Werner.
wary of my voice! For me, still, having someone new join the team Maybe one day, as she keeps expanding her personal growth in
is the best. Someone who cannot prune a tree, and you teach fruit farming, she’ll end up with her own patch of land.
him. A few days later you stand back and watch him, saying to Liz didn’t pursue her dream of becoming a nurse and she may
yourself: ‘Now that man can prune a tree’.” Helping others is still not have tackled those law studies, but she’s the First Lady of Ou
her biggest motivator. Today Liz is a forewoman in charge of three Stasie, and thriving. As long as she can help other people to be
teams of 14 men each. more than they ever thought they could be, it’s all good.
JUNE/JULY 2019 | INDUSTRY NEWS 23You can also read
