TLU SA, the Voortrekker Monument and the Heritage Foundation planted three trees on Wednesday 16 February in the historic Trekroetetuin at the Voortrekker Monument in memory of the Voortrekkers who were killed on 16-17 February 1838 at Bloukrans and Weenen and for the victims of farm murders and – attacks the country is experiencing today.
TLU SA sees the Coral Tree as a living symbol of growth and hope for the future regardless of the security conditions that South Africa’s farmers suffer from.
“For us, in connection with our history, it is a living monument that confirms our determination and faith foundation for the future. The Voortrekker Monument is ours. It is important to cherish what is symbolised here and proudly carry it out to our own, but also, to all other people. The maintenance and continuation of this monument is solely in our own hands,” said TLU SA General Manager, Mr. Bennie van Zyl.
TLU SA, Heritage Foundation and the Voortrekker Monument also signed a co-operation agreement. The organisations conclude this agreement to confirm the collaborative relationship between them. The relationship is based on voluntary co-operation and only applies to the extent that the co-operation between the parties is to the advantage of all three organisations.
For TLU SA together with the Voortrekker Monument and the Heritage Foundation, the preservation of history is very important.
“We invest in our children and grandchildren and tell stories that should inspire them. The Trekroetetuin is part of the exercise to bring the stories of the past to life for the children and keep them alive,” said Dr Danie Langer from the Voortrekker Monument.
Maj Gen Chris van Zyl, who is retiring this week after 20 years in the service of TLU SA, attended the event.
“The idea of a living monument came from Chris and that is why it is so incredibly special to have him here today as well. We plant these trees today with the spade that threw the first sod for the TLU SA building in 1972. This shovel has been owned by TLU SA since 1957,” Mr. Bennie van Zyl continued.
