Young farmers from across the country should jump to enter the 2021 TLU SA Young Farmer of the Year competition.

Entries close on June 18. In conjunction with Santam Agriculture, Manitou, CMH Ford and Introlab, the competition became very popular.

There are big prizes to be won, including a trip to Paris, France, for the winner. Previous winners concur that it is not only the winner who gains something from taking part.

“The competition is a great measure to see if you are doing the right things on your farm,” says Henna du Plessis, the chairman of the TLU SA Young Farmer committee and the winner of two years ago.

“The judges visit your farm as part of the adjudication process, and their feedback is valuable as they look at your business from an objective perspective.” The panel of judges consist of unbiased experts on various agricultural fields.

They use an objective scientific method alongside international management criteria to find the winner. Danie Bester, the current titleholder of the competition, agrees that the feedback on farming technique adds a lot to the farm’s future success.

“Of course, if you win, it is that pat on the back – the recognition – saying that you are doing something right,” he says. Young farmers of 35 and younger can enter the competition.

The panel of judges will visit the finalists on their farms, and the winners will be announced at the congress on  September 1.

Farmers can send their entry forms to the relevant regional manager (or chairman) directly. East/KZN – Ronnie – r.schilling@live.co.za   HAVE

YOUR SAY: Like our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram or email us at dundee.courier@caxton.co.za.  Add us on WhatsApp 071 277 1394.