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IN T H E SP OTLI GH T
Paul Maré
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Paul says that his secretary, Corinda Marais (who
happens to be a former Senwester) is his right
hand.
Approximately 500 tons of silage are
produced annually at Vlakvlei.
SENWES
The discussion then turned to Senwes. “I believe
in partnerships. I decided early in my career to
make Senwes my main business partner.” And
he is glad that he did it. He has been buying
all his inputs from Senwes, he does his financ-
ing of production inputs, land, vehicles and
implements through Senwes Credit. He even
remembers the days when Senwes had bureau
services. “I use Senwes in all areas of my farming
operations,” says Paul. No wonder he has been
a member of Senwes since 1984. His father,
Frikkie, used to be a Senwes member as well.
Paul states without hesitation: “I only
deliver grain at Senwes.” Viljoenskroon and
Groenebloem Silo are a mere 10 km from his
farm, which is very convenient. The farms near
Limerick use the Potchefstroom Silo. Paul is
of the opinion that Senwes should establish a
tractor mechanic service at Viljoenskroon again,
which would result in more John Deere custom-
ers.
AWARDS
Paul laughs while I admire the trophies at
Vlakvlei. “This is not really what one works for.”
The trophies include the Bayer-LNR Platinum
trophies for his 2005 and 2006 Bonsmara studs.
His focus is more on the production of quality
bulls for commercial farmers.
Paul collects hats and
has a few Senwes ones
as well!
Bambi the Yorkie goes everywhere
with Paul. There are three other dogs
as well, Tommie the Bull Mastiff, Rex
the Doberman and Spotty the Cattle
Dog.
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APRIL/MAY 2017 • SENWES Scenario
SEASONS AND RAINFALL
Since farming and engineering are his passions,
we cannot conclude this article without men-
tioning that he is a rainfall pattern and season
enthusiast. He meticulously records weather
patterns on his farm and is an avid admirer of
Prof. Will Alexander, who predicted the drought
of the past few years in 2007, when he was part
of the CSIR. His predictions are based on the
21-year sunspot cycles.
Paul says that he as an excellent team of
employees and he has to make special mention
of his parents, Frikkie en Heléne, who made the
biggest contribution to him being the producer
that he is today. Keep improving on your accom-
plishments, Senwes producer!