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In September 1957 Crookes Brothers took up an option to purchase a 750 hectare irrigated farm on the Usutu River with the intention of moving the Renishaw mill to the Big Bend area. This never materialized as the application for a milling license was not granted, however a growing quota was approved and the farm was retained. The farm was sold to Vernon Crookes in 1959 but repurchased by the company in June 1961.
Today 1640 hectares is under cane producing 178 000 tons annually, and a 4 800 hectare Black Brangus cattle ranch. The citrus operation was closed down in 2004.
Through the implementation of innovative irrigation schemes and continual improvement and upgrading of existing infrastructure Crookes Plantations is able to stand head to head with the best in the industry. Yields are ever improving as Crookes Plantations evolves with high-tech irrigation systems, accurate application of nutrients through specifically tailored fertilizers, artificial ripeners and herbicides.
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Wildlife/ Conservancy
The Company is a 25% member of the Big Bend (Mhlosinga) Conservancy. The formation of the Conservancy has helped to increase the number of game, reduced poaching and improved security in the area.
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General Manager: |
Christo Bothma
Phone: 00268 363 6523
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Estate office: |
Postal address: P.O.Box 35, Big Bend, Swaziland.
Phone: 00268 – 3636523/3636527
Phone: 00268 – 3636626/3636627
Fax: 00268 – 3636168
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Directions: |
From Durban, head north on the N2. Between the towns of Mkuze and Pongola turn right at the Gollel T junction, approx 30 kms from Mkuze, and head to the Border town of Gollel (RSA)/Lavumisa(Swazi) approx 10 kms Proceed to Nsoko and then onto Big Bend approx 60 kms.
Approx 4 km's after crossing the Usuthu river bridge and with the Sugar Mill in sight turn left onto the road that leads to the town of Big Bend. Continue through the town until the road veers right and onto a dirt road for the first time. Continue until you see a Crookes Plantations sign, the turn left before the sign, onto this side road.
Not more than 50 meters you turn right and continue following the dirt road over 2 canal crossings. The distance from the town at this stage is approx 7 kms.Once you have crossed the second canal there is a big signboard, next to a building housing the office of the Personnel Officer, declaring that you are now on the farm of Crookes Plantations. There are directional signs indicating the way the main office situated near the Usuthu river.
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| GPS Co-ordinates |
S 26º 51.415'
E 31º 55.864'
Bar J South
Co ordinates
S 26º 49.649'
E 31º 52.871'
Bar J Central
Co ordinates
S 26º 46.886'
E 31º 49.537' |
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