At Valtrac’s NAMPO Cape stand this year, an old familiar red tractor was on display, a Valmet 15. The tractor, which had not been seen in the Cape for years, was dusted off and rolled out of storage for one reason: 2026 marks Valtrac’s 30th anniversary.

Around 30 years ago, Wynn Dedwith started looking for better tractors to replace the Volvo range he had been using on his own farm for years. What began as a search for something better quickly grew into a golden opportunity for his own business.

“It actually came from a desire to replace my old Volvo tractors … Because I knew the old tractors and had come a long way with them, I started with the Valmets.

“Not to start a business, but yes, today we distribute tractors nationwide,” says Wynn, as he introduces himself with a firm handshake.

He explains that the tractors and implements they distribute now started because his neighbours had specific requirements. Together with Valtra, he attended various international shows, where he had the opportunity to see which implements and tractors were best suited to the needs of local farmers.

At this year’s NAMPO stand, old and new Valtrac clients dropped by to congratulate the company on its 30th anniversary. Most of the visitors stopped at the old Valmet 15, a 1953 model, to find out more about the small tractor, as well as the features of the more modern Valtra tractors.

The Valtra tractor range remains the preferred choice for many farmers.

30 Years of experience in an industry littered with challenges

Wynn recalls many of the changes he has experienced in the industry over the past 30 years. He also confirms that technology is here to stay, with modern self-driving tractors that use Global Positioning Systems (GPS) for this purpose.

As for future of tractor technology, Wynn talks about artificial intelligence and how it is changing tractor systems: “Valtra, which is part of the AGCO Group, is doing a lot of research to advance tractor engines and technology.

“So there is definitely something new coming soon. However, I don’t know what it’s going to be just yet! But yes, change is on the way,” he says.

For more information about Valtrac’s impressive range of tractors and implements, contact them on 056-817-7338 or 056-817-7308, or visit valtrac.co.za to find your nearest dealer and chat to the relevant representative.