Dale Hutton crowned KZN Toyota Kwanalu Young Farmer of the Year

A dairy farmer from Creighton, in the Harry Gwala District Municipality, Dale Hutton, has clinched the 2025 KZN Toyota Kwanalu Young Farmer of the Year title.

Hutton's innovative approach and responsible resource utilisation captivated the judges from the KZN Agricultural Union, in securing the accolade in recognition of his exceptional contributions to the agricultural sector.

The KwaZulu-Natal Agricultural Union, Kwanalu, serves as the voice of the rural and agricultural sectors in the province, presenting the collective interests and concerns of its members while championing a sustainable and profitable agricultural future for both KwaZulu-Natal and greater South Africa.

The 39-year-old farmer will now represent KwaZulu-Natal at the forthcoming Toyota SA/Agri SA National Young Farmer of the Year Competition.

There, he will compete against South Africa's most promising young farmers for a chance to earn one of the country's highest honour in agriculture. That outcome will grant him the opportunity to drive away in a brand-new Toyota Hilux Single Cab.

The competition caters for competitors under the age of 40, regardless of gender, and active members of provincial agricultural unions.

Contestants are rigorously evaluated on various facets of their farming operations, including innovative practices, management philosophies, and their long-term vision for sustainable agriculture.

"This competition continues to reveal the remarkable talent and vision of KZN's young farmers. They are not only embracing innovation but also demonstrating an unwavering commitment to agriculture in South Africa.

"Their ability to adapt and invest in the future of farming is both inspiring and vital for the growth of our sector," stated Kwanalu CEO Sandy La Marque.

For nine years, Hutton’s dairy enterprise, centred around Kiwi-Cross breed cattle, stood out for its modern, data-driven methods.

At the heart of his success lies a satellite-based pasture management system that provided real time insights into plant health, grazing efficiency, and water distribution.

This sophisticated technique aligned smoothly with Hutton's broader commitment to sustainability.

His dedication to responsible resource management extended to the integration of solar powered energy systems and digital moisture probes, which collectively minimise diesel dependency and enhance energy efficiency.

Furthermore, Hutton repurposes all wastewater from his dairy for dryland maize and kikuyu pastures, reflecting a steadfast commitment to improving soil health while conserving valuable resources.

"You can't manage what you don't measure," Hutton said in reinforcing his philosophy grounded in strategic planning and continuous optimisation of farming practices.

Despite the current challenges facing the agricultural landscape, Hutton remains optimistic about the future of farming in South Africa.

His decision to return home to the family farm after spending four years abroad was a testament to his dedication to his roots and community, where he and his wife, Roxy, were raising their three children.

"I have travelled to 18 countries and have never found a place I would rather work and live in than South Africa," he said 

Hutton's influence extends beyond his farm; he has been an active member of the Ingwe Farmers’ Association Committee for five years, serving two years as Chairman and also two years as Vice Chair.

In addition to supplying milk to the local Creighton Valley Cheesery, he and his wife operate the FatCow Creamery, a small-batch artisanal ice cream business that utilises milk from their herd, further bridging Hutton's commitment to local enterprise.

As La Marque said: "Young farmers like Dale embody the resilience, innovation, and leadership that South African agriculture needs to secure its future.

His ability to embrace technology while remaining firmly rooted in his community set him apart."

Hutton said his forward thinking farming skills and passion for sustainability and optimisation, set him apart from the others.

DAILY NEWS