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OUDTSHOORN NEWS - The annual Klein Karoo Prestige Agri Awards were held at a special function at Cango Wildlife in Oudtshoorn on Friday 14 August.
The awards recognised the hard work, dedication and achievements of agricultural workers and farms across the Little Karoo.
Juan Jonck of De Rustica was named the overall Klein Karoo Agri Worker of the Year.
Kumquat Farm (farmer: Danial Jonker) received the award for best participating farm, while Rashaan Everts of Witmoek Farm was recognised as the farmworker with the best potential.
Bettie Wagenar of De Krans received the special long service recognition award for 46 years of service.
Jonck will now take part in the provincial awards, representing the Little Karoo.
2026 Klein Karoo Agri Awards:
- General worker of the year: Donovan Bailey (Kumquat)
- Driver of the year: Graham van Wyngaard (Buffelskloof)
- Animal production: Juan Jonck (De Rustica)
- Technical operator: Derrick Kamfer (De Rustica)
- Irrigation specialist: Ivan Blignaut (Buffelskloof)
- Social development: Nicol Jansen (Matjiesrivier)
- Agri-processing: Christopher Jerome (De Krans)
- Foreman/forewoman of the year: Leonie Coetzee (Matjiesrivier)
- Junior management: Brendon Booysen (Welbeplan)
- Middle management: Sarah Grabie (De Krans).
Juan Jonck
Juan Jonck, the 2026 winner, has been farming with olives and sheep at De Rustica for two years. He said he had never thought he would become a farmer, but animals especially were very dear to him. Asked about advice for young upcoming farmers, Jonck said: "Learn from your peers and make sure you get as much education about farming possible. Don't be scared to ask questions and do what you love with a passion."
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