Welgelegen Cherry Estate

About Us

Thinus and Elize Grobbelaar bought the farm in December 2008. Thinus implemented a turnaround strategy for the farm and his wife took care of the fruit processing factory in Edenvale Johannesburg. He brought with him a zest for life and agriculture and had to study and grasp the concepts for cherry en apple farming. Many investors from Johannesburg last only for a short period, but he persevered to diversify the farm. He rejuvenated the old cherry orchards and planted new apple and cherry trees and established a small cattle herd. He also built guest houses and chalets to accommodate 80 guests and a venue for events that can seat 230 people. He has realized his dream of owning a farm in the Eastern Free State and to establish a viable and sustainable business but also an entity to uplift many young black men and women. This was only made possible by the support of his 2 daughters, Sylvia and Marelize and his son Fanie. Later the spouses joined the family business and his oldest son, Thinus also joined in 2019

Fanie Grobbelaar and his wife Mary-Anne accept the challenge in 2017 to assume responsibility for the farming and Wedding operations.

Thinus’ mother asked him in 2020 what possessed him to start farming when he was 55. The was answered that he is living his dream, enjoying himself and feel blessed.