GEORGE NEWS - A farm manager and two farmworkers died in a chemical-related incident on a farm near Herold's Bay on Tuesday 13 October, while 12 other people were affected by chemical exposure, several of whom required hospital treatment.

The deceased farm manager, Mario Lombard (41), was a respected figure in the agricultural community and a finalist in last year's Agri Western Cape Santam Young Farmer of the Year competition.

Bossie Terblanche, chairperson of the Outeniqua Agricultural Association, expressed his condolences.

"Our deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to his wife, children and family. Mario was not only a pillar of strength in the agricultural community, but also a good friend and devoted family man."

The two farmworkers were identified as Pule Johannes Moshane (36) and Tiisetso Victor Masela (33). Their families could not be reached for comment.

Lombard's death has left his wife, Dalena, and their two children grieving, as tributes pour in for a man remembered for his dedication to farming and his generosity towards others.

'He leaves an immense void'

Dalena told George Herald her husband had left deep footprints in many hearts. 

"We are grateful for the time we were able to share with him and for having experienced his love, compassion and energy. Mario gave so much of himself to others, whether it was a word of advice, a helping hand, his time or a piece of his heart. He was selfless in everything he did. No challenge was ever too great for him," she said.

She described Lombard as an inspiration to many, saying he had achieved incredible things in his 41 years. 

"He leaves an immense void in my heart, as well as in the lives and hearts of our two children, our families and our friends. We would like to thank everyone for their support during this difficult time. It is sincerely appreciated."

What happened on the farm?

Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) firefighters assisted George Municipality's emergency services following the reports of the chemical incident on the farm.

Information received indicated that some workers had reportedly been cleaning a large storage tank containing a mixture of chemicals, including phosphoric acid, when the incident occurred.

Several who attempted to help those initially affected also sustained inhalation injuries and were taken to hospital.

George Municipality's firefighters decontaminated the deceased before their bodies were recovered by forensic pathology services, while GRDM firefighters applied chemical absorbents to cover and contain the affected area.

The exact circumstances surrounding the deaths, including how the three men came into contact with the chemicals, have not yet been established.

A life dedicated to agriculture

Lombard was recognised as one of eight finalists in the 2025 Agri Western Cape Santam Young Farmer of the Year competition.

His career in agriculture began after he obtained a motor and diesel mechanic diploma at Boland College in Worcester in 2005. Following a lecturer's recommendation, he pursued agricultural studies and discovered a passion for farming.

Media enquiries were sent to the Department of Employment and Labour, the Western Cape Occupational Health and Safety Inspectorate, George Municipality and Garden Route District Municipality regarding the incident. Their responses will be added to the online version of this article.

The farm owner has also been approached for comment. None had been received by the time of going to press.

Pule Johannes Moshane

Tiisetso Victor Masela

Some workers had reportedly been cleaning a large storage tank containing a mixture of chemicals, including phosphoric acid, when the incident occurred. Photo: GRDM‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’