Biodiversity, the variety of life in an ecosystem, is a tangible measure of the health and balance of a particular habitat. At Avondale, we have been compiling a bird list over the years to chart the re-emergence of species on the farm as we have worked to restore soils and cleanse water naturally, clear invasive aliens and revive the native vegetation. These birds that feed, roost, protect territories and raise their young on our farm, are fantastic indicators that paying attention to the eco-details makes for a vibrant eco-whole! An example of this is our regular sightings of pairs of both the tiny and vivid Malachite Kingfisher, and the sturdy and striking Giant Kingfishers. Both species are most likely to be breeding residents giving testimony to the health of the waters that also feed our vines!
Johnathan Grieve
As family man… Avondale is a family farm where we appreciate that the health and balance of our living system is inextricably linked to well-being of our families. As a father of two and a husband, as son and brother, my inspiration to achieve a robust, balanced vineyard ecosystem is to ensure that Avondale will support the lives of our future generations.
As artist… A passion for jazz and a love for all forms of art, especially woodwork and sculpture led me into four years of fine art studies – an eclectic education for a budding a farmer, for sure! However, I have found that in so many ways, the patterns, interconnections and openness of the artistic worldview have influenced my understanding of how living systems work.
As farmer… My interest in farming started early when I was a boy growing up on a small-holding outside of Durbanville. I planted and tended my own vegetables which I sold to family and friends. I hardly imagined at that time though that I would one day become a farmer. However, the theme of a healthy balanced life was embedded in our family’s outlook.