Workers were herding their own cattle to a central point on the Brakfontein Farm (in doing so, the cattle were on the R600 Road) when a truck ploughed into them.

This despite the farmer having points-men with red flags way out ahead of the cattle.

The 150 or so cattle were on the road on a steep incline when the truck hit them, with the driver claiming that his brakes failed.

Seven cattle were killed instantly, their carcasses scattered across the road and down an embankment. Another cow was injured and later put down.

Workers were on the road, warning motorists that there were cattle ahead. This was confirmed by the farmer and workers.

The cattle that were killed belonged to workers on the farm.

Every year, during the holiday period, the farmer vaccinates his cattle. He also vaccinates cattle owned by his staff. Staff were bringing their cattle to the vaccination point when the tragic accident occurred.

No farm workers were injured in the accident.