Wildlife Ranching SA announces top game ranchers

Wildlife Ranching South Africa (WRSA) announced Ellalien Davey of Romaco Ranch in the Waterberg district of Limpopo as the WRSA Game Rancher of the Year for 2013.

Mrs Davey, with the support of her husband Colin and their two sons, has been an active game rancher for the past 12 years. Romaco Ranch is a family farm with intensive involvement by all members.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Ellalien's main objective is to ensure that the farm remains economically sustainable through cost-effective farming methods and supports green economy principles. She strongly believes that the farming activities must pay for itself and anything that does not meet expectations, is phased out. Romaco Ranch applies environmentally friendly methods to control invasive plants and parasites.

The farm is also a hunting destination for both local and international hunters. Ellalien is passionate about establishing game meat and game products in support of a green economy and to contribute towards food security. Romaco Ranch adds value to game meat and produces game meat products for the formal and informal market.

The ranch is geared as a tourism destination and offers a variety of outdoor activities for families looking for an eco experience. Romaco Ranch is also actively involved in community development projects. In accepting her award, Ellalien paid tribute to the WRSA for its support at both local and national level that made it possible for game farmers in South Africa to farm successfully.

Other game farmers who received awards were:Frans Schutte of Cottondale Game Ranch, White River is WRSA Game Rancher of the Year: Biodiversity. Hanno van Rensburg of Genetic Game Breeders in Baltimore, Limpopo is the WRSA Game Rancher of the Year: Green Economy.Hannes Maree of Benchmark Game Breeders near Gravelotte is the WRSA, Game Breeder of the Year.

Nominees for Game Rancher of the Year are assessed on their management skills, development of their ranch, and their involvement in the industry.

This annual award serves as encouragement and motivation for game farmers to develop and maintain sound game ranching management practices.

Press Release