Grazing and timber destroyed in Harding fire
The blaze was only contained in the early hours of Monday this week.
A runaway fire destroyed grazing and timber on Bertie Strydom’s Harding farm last Sunday.
“I lost three-quarters of my grazing land and timber, valued at about R2-million,” he said.
According to Mr Strydom, the fire started on an adjacent farm at about 8am, as a worker cooked on an open fire.
ALSO READ : Bush fire … no fuss for firefighter Senzo
“We had received warnings from the Farmers’ Association of fire danger due to the dry season,” he said.
Overall five farms were affected, with farmers losing sugarcane and timber.
“It was difficult to contain the fire, as the wind changed direction constantly. Spotting also occurred as the wind carried embers to different sections of the farm.
“Also, there were no access roads, so it became a big problem.”
Mr Strydom was trapped in the fire in two spots. “It was frightening,” he said.
Two homes, including Mr Strydom’s, were also in danger.
“My house is on a hill. It was directly in line with the flames, smoke and embers. The roof had to be hosed down with water as embers had gotten into the ceiling.”
The fire was only contained in the early hours of Monday this week.
Luckily, no-one was injured.
Due to loss of grazing land, Mr Strydom has had to source hay for his 130 head of cattle.
“They can eat six bales a day,” he said.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like the South Coast Herald’s Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram
