New Executive Council (Exco) elected at the Annual General Meeting of SA Stud Book & Animal Improvement Association on 2 November 2017.

Mr Freddie Wasserfall was re-elected as President of SA Stud Book at the Association’s Annual General Meeting, held on 2 November 2017 in Bloemfontein. Freddie is also the current president of the Charolais Cattle Breeders’ Association of South Africa and will now serve in his second term as president of Stud Book. Mr Russel Clark, councillor of SA Hereford and vice chairman of the Tuli Cattle Breeders’ Society of South Africa was elected as vice president of Stud Book. Mr Michiel Burger, councillor of SA Boerperd Horse Breeders’ Society was elected as treasurer. Mr Duncan Serapelwane, councillor at Bonsmara SA were re-elected on Exco, while Mr Carel Nel, the previous treasurer and representative of the Drakensberger Breeders’ Society, will also now serve as member of Exco. The other serving Exco members are Dr Johan Jooste (representing Jersey SA), Mr PW van Heerden (representing and president of the Meatmaster Sheep Breeders’ Society of South Africa) and Mr Christopher Melamu (Bonsmara SA).

Mr Freddie Wasserfall emphasised the importance of the stud breeders in South Africa as the basis for genetic improvement in the livestock industry. The service delivery and products of Stud Book to the bigger industry is remarkable as approximately 80% of all stud animals in South Africa record with the Association. He also emphasised the core values that are important for stud breeders and the way Stud Book want to conduct its business, namely honesty, dedication to innovation and open minds, dedication to excellence and regard for each member and user of services, irrespective of standing. The rate of technological development and the flood of information require stud breeders and other agricultural producers with clear minds. Stud Book wants to assist all stud breeders, in particular, but also other livestock producers with a sound base to remain competitive by using these new developments wisely and in the correct manner.