The Main Dohne Merino course took place at the Elsenburg College of Agriculture from the 8th to the 10th of June 2016. The course was very attended by 55 students including breeders, prospective Dohne Merino Inspectors and students from Stellenbosch University and Elsenburg Agricultural College. Mr. John Morris who made the Facilities at Mariendahl experimental farm and Terra Vino animals available needs special mention. John Morris who accommodated myself, can only be praised by the Dohne Merino Breed Society and all fellow breeders, for his unselfish contribution to the success of these courses over many years.
Practical sessions were ably guided by BKB Inspectors – Mr.Hennie Hattingh and Jan Olivier. Mr. Hennie Hattingh retires from his post at BKB and this course was the last in his current capacity. The Dohne Merino Breed Society want to thank Hennie for many years of dedicated service to the Dohne Merino Breed Society. Hennie’s enthusiasm and comforting manner by which he handled demonstrations and practical tuition added a special dimension to this course. According to Hennie his retirement from BKB will definitely not be the end of his lifelong relationship with the Dohne Merino.
Photo 1: Hennie Hattingh busy during a practical session
This year’s course was marked by excellent rain during the night of the 9th June. The 30 odd mm of rain in the area will certainly improve the general agricultural outlook during this period of very uncertain agricultural conditions. Fortunately the unpredictable Cape weather allowed us to complete the course without a glitch on Friday the 10th of June. It is trusted that all candidates gained the skills they required from the course and that they will put to good use their acquired knowledge of the Dohne breed.
Photo 2: Students on the last cold day of the Elsenburg course
