I received a BSc honours degree in Geology at RAU in 1974, the year that I got married to Maryna Swart.
From 1975 to 1978, I lectured in geology at the University of the North (currently University of Limpopo). In 1978, I discontinued an MSc study to move to the family farm and wholesale seedling operation in Koppies.
In 2003, I overcame prostate cancer and became motivated to study again. I obtained an MSc degree in Environmental Management and an M-Phil degree in Wildlife Management at the University of Johannesburg and UP through part-time studies.
In 2011, difficult economic circumstances and severe water restrictions forced me to give up my business.
I decided to take up a new career and class-mate Marius Fischer was instrumental in helping to get me employed. In 2016, I obtained a BSc Honours degree in Ecological Remediation at Northwest University through part-time studies.
Since 2011, I have been employed as an Environmental Manager at a construction company and am currently deriving immense job satisfaction with my humble efforts to conserve natural resources.
Looking back at my career, I realise that no other school could have prepared me better to face the challenges, tragedies and successes in life than our alma mater. I am still happily married to Maryna; and we have two children and three beautiful granddaughters.