‘On jet skis for farmers’ | Back after thousands of kilometers

The four Pretorians who set off on jet skis along the South African coastline to raise awareness about farmers’ mental health are safely back in Pretoria after traveling thousands of kilometers and having to overcome numerous challenges.

The men describe the journey as extremely challenging, but also particularly meaningful.

Carlo Smuts, one of the four jet ski riders, says the highlight of the trip was the people they met along the way.

According to Smuts, the trip was not just about the adventure, but about communities and support for farmers. The message to farmers was simple: People can’t always help financially or lend a hand, but they can show that they think of farmers and are there for them.

The team deliberately put themselves through difficult and unpredictable conditions for almost two weeks.

“We wanted to put ourselves through a difficult path and time for 13 days in unplanned and changing circumstances, where one does not know what to expect tomorrow,” said Smuts.

“If we had to venture to the coast to reach even just one farmer, then we have successfully achieved the goal,” he said. (Photo: Provided)

According to him, this uncertainty is something that farmers deal with every day.

Ruan Jordaan, also one of the participants, believes the trek did make a difference.

“If we had to venture to the coast to reach even just one farmer, then we have successfully achieved the goal,” he said.

However, the journey was not without danger and challenges. The team had to brave rough sea conditions, avoid sharks in the water and even handle jet skis that tumbled upside down.

The four men are now back on the continent and hope the adventure helps to create greater awareness about farmers’ mental health and the pressure under which farmers work.

Maroela Media reported earlier that the aim of the march was to send this message to farmers: “We see you. We appreciate you. You are not alone.”

(Photo: Provided)