“Integrity in the cycad trade is everything,” Ian told Herald when visiting the family farm high up on the slopes of Georges Valley where he, his wife Rolene, their children and his in-laws, Pieter and Naomi Wesseloo, have created a self-sustaining life.

Apart from the nursery with its 1500 cycads, the family also runs the Water Wheel Country Retreat which boasts luxury accommodation to those who want to spend time in the serene mountains of Magoebaskloof on the Letaba River’s edge.

The farm derives its name from the water wheel in the river that was built by Pieter when the family established the farm fourteen years ago.

They live off the grid through power generated from the water wheel and additional solar panels. But to this family it is about leaving a legacy.

The Galatians Trust, a charity that was started by Rob Wesseloo, Pieter’s brother due to a life-changing experience through the loss of a loved one, started doing charity work and that’s where “thanking those people who care for others” started.

His brother Pieter, as a trustee and builder of the farm, became the steward of the family trust. The trust accommodates churches and other charity groups in a 12-bed house (six bedrooms) free of charge.

Also read: Cycad saga finally has a happy ending

“The Abraham Kriel Children’s Home brings a group once a month,” Ian said.

To make their way of life work, everyone on the farm has clear roles and the income generated is proportionally allocated to support themselves and the Galasiers Trust.

Ian’s natural affinity for people has made him the “marketer” of the family.

He is the one who will receive and organise adventure trips when guests book in and liaise with clients.

Also read: Disgrace: Protected cycads left to rot at Tzaneen Post Office

Last year, during the hard months of Covid, Pieter, who is a toolmaker by profession, started to manufacture foot and hand sanitiser pedals to order.

Now they have a full production workshop and an income stream that further contributes to their independence.

They also started to cultivate hydrangeas and in the summer months are able to supplement their income with hydrangea blooms to florists and event organisers.

But it is the cycad nursery that is Ian’s real pride and joy.

He marvels at assisting collectors to grow their collections and spends many hours caring for his beloved plants.

It is this passion that has led to the nursery becoming one of the trusted “go-to” places to obtain permits and putting buyers and sellers into contact with each other.

Ian says the nursery was initially inspired by the nearby Modjadji Rain Forest and has 26 of the 41 indigenous species.

“Some species are difficult to identify and many collectors, thinking they are buying a rare cycad, are taken for a ride by unscrupulous traders.”

But it’s the family’s adherence to the verses, Galatians 5: 22-23, which says individuals who contribute towards the well-being of the less fortunate in their communities, are rewarded.

A promise that is kept to them in abundance! For more information on their work, contact Ian on 074 024 6519 or visit the websites waterwheelretreat.co.za and thecycadspecialists.co.za