Since then, Mr Majola has continued to build on this progress. With sound extension advice, he has remained committed to improving the management of his wattle plantations, with particular attention given to maintaining well-prepared firebreaks throughout the winter months. His consistent effort, willingness to learn and ability to persevere through challenges have once again earned recognition, with Mr Majola being nominated for this year’s Small-Scale Tree Farmer of the Year award. From his first wattle seedlings in 2021 to embracing improved planting material, supporting industry research and continually refining his management practices, Mr Majola’s journey demonstrates what can be achieved through dedication, resilience and a commitment to continuous improvement. His story is not simply about growing trees; it is about growing with the industry, learning from every challenge and continually striving for better. Rainer and Michael Johannes COMMERCIAL TREE FARMER OF 2026 2026 was another challenging year judging for commercial tree farmer of the year with nominees from the Midlands, Zululand and Northern Natal. A commonality amongst all the nominees was their passion for the land, their staff and neighbours assisting where needed making the judging challenging again. Forestry best practices are used to judge the nominees looking at the harvesting and extraction operations, Silviculture procedures, open area management, which includes invasive alien control, erosion mitigation, fire protection and preparedness, social responsibilities and infrastructure management, including roads. Congratulations are given to RMJ Farming (Pty) Ltd a FSC and Global Gap certified, owned and managed family farming enterprise by Michael and Rainer Johannes from Paulpietersburg, who are the Commercial Tree Farmer for 2026. The farm has been family owned since 1900s when GCH Niebuhr moved into the area and started farming with cattle and wattle. In 1993 his son in law Rudolf Johannes took over the management of the farm and expanded the area under wattle. In 2005, Michael returned home working with Rudolf, 2015 Rainer returned home and it was decided that the sons would take over the management of the farm, registering RMJ Farming (Pty) Ltd. The long-term plan is to establish more wattle on the farm, reducing the number of ha’s under Eucalyptus. RMJ Farming (Pty) Ltd Land Holdings Total 2 412 ha The Timber Area Total 942 ha Acacia 532 ha Eucalyptus 352 ha Pines 58 ha 7 6
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