17 November 2016
New leaders for Agri-Expo, also known as the Cape of Good Hope Agricultural Society, were appointed at the 185th Annual General Meeting.
Mr Hugo Lochner is the new President of Agri-Expo and Mr Chris Fourie the Vice President. Mr Du Toit Wessels, who stepped down as President after a successful four-year term, was chosen as the fourth member of the Executive Committee.
Wessels look back with pride on his term, which is characterized by the continuation of the promotion of agriculture amongst our youth and the public and also the beginning and continuation of one of the Society’s new projects, Agri-Expo Livestock, which is known as the countries’ largest dairy and beef cattle interbreed show after just three years. “This is a special organization with dynamic staff who are not afraid of any challenge. Agri-Expo’s vision and mission simply has to be lived at all times,” Wessels said.
Lochner’s extensive field of experience in the agricultural sector as well as his position as a board member of Agri-Expo for a number of years ensures a seamless takeover and continued momentum in terms of Presidential leadership. “Agri-Expo has a proud history that accumulated over the past 185 years and it understands the heart and soul of agriculture. The Society is now in a favorable position to create opportunities where all stakeholders in the agricultural value chain, namely farmers, processors, product suppliers, financiers and relevant government departments, as well as the public come together with one goal in mind and that is to promote the agricultural sector and the image of agriculture. ”
Lochner is passionate about his new role as President. “Agriculture, especially primary agriculture, is close to my heart. I see my role as President to support the management of Agri-Expo in the important work they do to promote agriculture. There are few similar organizations that understand agriculture as well as Agri-Expo,” says Lochner.
Agri-Expo celebrates its 185th anniversary this year and although it is currently the oldest agricultural society in the country, it managed to adapt over the years to continue being just as relevant as in 1831.
