Some of you might remember a blog post I did last year called “Karoo Ranching”. A lot of people have been asking me about it, and would love to get involved somehow- so I decided to write this post for all you curious cats.

Let’s start with a little background info…

My sister and I grew up on a farm and were lucky enough to get to enjoy the scenery and the lifestyle that you see captured in these photo’s. We always considered ourselves extremely privileged to be farm kids and valued a freedom of space that many city folk can only dream of. From a young age we were roped into helping around the farm, and learnt to appreciate a good days honest hard work in the elements of nature. It was in these times we learnt about perseverance, character, integrity and humility. The old fashioned kind of characteristics that our society could use more of, in my opinion.

Call it the ignorance of the youth, but back then I guess we didn’t realize just how privileged we were to have that lifestyle. We thought it came standard- that that was just how life was. However, as time has steadily marched on, we have come to see that our experience is something truly unique and special.  It’s a life that  many wish they could have had or still possibly have one day! Some don’t even know that it exists or have no idea where their fresh veggies or steak in the super market comes from!

Being a farmer is not easy though and I salute the handful of them that battle through drought, the country’s political climate, poor economy and many other challenges, in order to bring us the food we eat every single day. They need our support just like we need the fruit of their labour.

My sister being the thinker, dreamer and pioneer that she is,  one day came up with the concept of a Film Festival to help raise the profile of farming in South Africa in a positive way. Filmmakers, photographers and creatives are asked to use their creativity and sphere of influence to help change the current image of farming in our beloved nation, as it is of vital importance to all of us that farmers keep producing food for their country.

A rather nifty idea, isn’t it?

Ok…so lets get to the nitty gritty details. When, where, how etc.

When and where? This year’s film festival is taking place on the 14-18th of June 2017, on the farm Elandskloof in the Graaff Reinet district.

Who is this festival suitable for? Film makers, Videographers, Photographers, Freelancers and Journalists.

How it works? Every year, filmmakers, photographers and corporates come from all over the country to capture short films, commercials, stories or documentaries that will help raise the profile of farming in a positive way. The winners of each category are decided the following year, at the infamous shoot out.

2017 themes? All contestants have to choose one of the following themes upon which to base their story lines and submit a proposal by the end of May 2017. The themes are as follows:

1. “Investing in the pioneers”
2. “A hard days work”
3. “For the love of adventure and farming”
4. “A season for everything”

What is there to capture? Over the span of 4 days, 20 experienced KAROO RANCHING cattlemen and women saddle up their horses and take you along to film under the Big Karoo Sky while rounding up herds of cattle. For those of you who want to capture the gentle equine spirit or the wild hearts of authentic cowboys- this is your chance!

The Ethos of the festival?

• Assist one another
• Be authentic
• Celebrate Agriculture
• Promote a positive image of farming
• Tell stories that will inspire
• Mix with authentic people

There are only a few spots available so, if you would like more information or want to get involved in any way please visit www.karooranching.co.za

or contact Julie Truter at julie@karooranching.co.za

Join us for a once in a lifetime experience!

 

This short video by the brilliant Jacques Crafford should whet your appetite sufficiently to come ranching with us! :)