Gordon Anderson, a 36-year-old farm manager based near Greyton in South Africa's Overberg region, has been named a finalist in the Agri Western Cape Santam Young Farmer of the Year competition. Anderson oversees the management of 83 hectares of apples and pears and leads a team of approximately 180 seasonal and permanent employees.
Originally from Worcester, Anderson attributes his early interest in agriculture to time spent on a Karoo farm during school holidays. He pursued farm management studies at Boland College and began his career working on a mixed fruit farm in Wolseley, later gaining experience in the table grape industry and abroad in the United States.
According to Anderson, the apple and pear sector offers significant opportunities through the adoption of new cultivars, improved farming techniques, and broader market access. He noted recent improvements in pricing conditions following previous disruptions linked to global shipping costs and the COVID-19 pandemic.
On the farm, Anderson has implemented trials using different rootstocks and trellising systems, including Louterwater Granny Smiths and a Cripps Red mutation (RDS), on V-trellis structures designed to optimize sunlight exposure and harvesting efficiency. He also manages a quality-based incentive system where workers are rewarded based on minimizing fruit damage.
Anderson emphasizes collaborative leadership and practical innovation. He encourages team input and supports ongoing skills development among supervisors and workers.
The farm, part of a larger fruit supply network, has continued operations despite challenges, including severe flooding. The team credits Anderson's leadership and focus on morale for maintaining continuity during such events.
Anderson views the competition as a platform for knowledge exchange rather than personal recognition. He advocates for greater involvement of younger generations in farming, noting the advantages of being open to technological tools like GPS-guided equipment and digital systems.
Reflecting on the future of the sector, Anderson highlights efficiency, resilience, and adaptability as key to agricultural success in a climate of rising costs and variable weather.
He encourages aspiring farmers to be proactive in seeking knowledge and developing confidence in their abilities.
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