By Olivia Schaffer
The phrase ’n boer maak ’n plan conjures up images of resourcefulness, resilience, and minds that refuse to be defeated by a broken part. A determination that can find solutions, even in difficult circumstances.
Drifting along a dusty Karoo road some years ago, the late Johan Scheffer came across a neighbouring farmer whose overloaded trailer (carrying a big water tank) was refusing to cooperate. Ever willing to offer help and to test his creative flair, Johan pulled up alongside the frustrated man.
Now remember, ‘n boer maak ‘n plan is not only about fixing things. It’s about an attitude, the refusal to be stuck, the instinct to adapt, and the quiet belief that there is always a way forward. Where some may see a problem, a farmer sees a challenge waiting to be overcome.
This is how Karoo farmers have learnt to survive – and thrive – in an unforgiving, harsh, semi-desert region. With its low rainfall, sparse vegetation, extreme temperatures, and, in some areas, desert-like conditions, the Karoo has earned the reputation of ‘land of thirst’.
The plans adopted by a boer aren’t always pretty – or safe. This occasion was no exception. With useful resources such as quick thinking, a degree of brute force and some impressive agile jumping, Johan and his neighbour managed to persuade – or force – the trailer to cooperate.
Before shaking hands and bidding one another totsiens, the two men – in true Karoo style – fell into easy conversation about the weather, livestock management, the amount of water in their reservoirs, and the future of their small town. Time was of no consequence. Time for a Karoo farmer refuse to hurry, like the stretch of a dog, a leaf drifting down …
But even Karoo time moves on. And because not a single car had passed while the roadside repairs were under way, Johan was happy that providence had led him to help his friend, Maeder Osler – none other than the founder of this august publication!
Photographs: Olivia Schaffer.
Charming …
Dit is so waar! Dankie.
I just loved that story…growing up on farms,I truly understand the comical situation. There m7st be many amusing stories on farms about having “a Boer maak ‘n plan.”
My father told a story of trying to get oxen in spanned just after the war. The front of would not move…the old farmer had one or two teeth in each jaw, not opposite each other. He then bent down, clamped the odd teeth on the fox’s tail…and off they went!!!!!
Two dear friends, Johan and Maeder, one I’d known since way back when I owned a mini minor and happened to take anothe dear friend and fellow actor to Nieu Bethesda. Pauline O’Kelly who had played in a then. CAPAB production of Atholl Fugard’s Road to Mecca was doing to visit the village having got to know it through theatre.
At the same time that we found ourselves walking the dusty streets enjoying the charm we bumped into a couple, Polos and Johan who were living in an adapted barn in Salem.
Not only did we become friends Johan and I buy I stayed in that barn numerous times while performing for the festinoes of the National Arts Festival. The friendship lasted a good while even when Johan stayed near Middelburg and I was living with my dear family in Muizenberg.
Maeder, let him tell that story.. 😅
Delightful – well captured.
Yes, Maeder, I can well imagine the encounter!! 😊
a beautiful story….beautifully told….you write with “soul” Ols