Making something of themselves
CANDICE BRADFIELD
THREE former alcoholics have been given the opportunity to make their own way in the world as business owners, thanks to the help two local residents.
After owner of Salem Crossroads Christian Care Centre, Noel Banfield, passed away in April this year, residents Shane Viljoen, Paul Carium and Bernie "Uncle Mac” MacIntyre were faced with an uncertain future. At the time, Viljoen had been there for 12 years straight, but 24 years in total. Carium had been a resident for eight years and MacIntyre for 13.
| GREEN FINGERS: Shane Viljoen (left), Bernie MacIntyre and Paul Carium are former residents of Salem Crossroads Christian Care Centre who, despite only starting their nursery four months ago, already have a vast stock of seedlings and cuttings for sale Picture: CANDICE BRADFIELD |
Viljoen had already met Benny and Karen Booysen, who own Dei Gratiu Home, about three years ago. About four months ago Viljoen approached them for help and they offered him area on their property to build and run a nursery.
"I take my hat off to them. I thank God for them,” said Viljoen.
Between them they have many years of experience in growing plants, Viljoen having started the nursery for Salem Cross which, in the end, generated 900 000 plants from cuttings. The other two also gained their skills and knowledge while they were residents there.
They have been given free reign and between the three of them they grow their own seedlings and their own cuttings. They have vegetable and flower seedlings as well as herbs and shrubs. Bonsai trees are also on the list but are not yet ready to be sold. Currently they are planting to spec, which means they are plantings for the speculation of selling. Unwilling to let anything go to waste, the overgrown vegetable seedlings are planted and will one day be for sale.
They have received no financial income and simply work with what they have and are given. Each day starts at 7am and they go home at 5pm. Sometimes they take Sundays off but there is always someone there to water the plants, which is very important.
"We're just looking for customers,” said Viljoen.
Karen said the three are partial owners of the business, which means they are working towards something.
"They can be very proud of themselves. It's a big thing to go out of your own environment,” she said.
According to Viljoen they can cater for farmers as well as doing big orders for landscapers. They will even plant your seedlings for you.
They have built their own hothouse and vegetable garden from donated materials. Garden services who have cuttings or grass trimmings to get rid of can take them to the nursery where they will be put to good use.
Viljoen said they are not asking for charity. The only help they are looking for is that people come and support their business.
They had a stall outside the Spar in Kenton-on-Sea last Saturday and will return there every second week.
The nursery is at Dei Gratiu Home, the fourth farm on the turnoff to Rocky Ridge. Carium will be in charge of sales and he can be contacted on 071-906-0221 for any information on plants or orders.
