{"id":45396,"date":"2024-08-28T04:00:19","date_gmt":"2024-08-28T02:00:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/districtmailhelderberg\/dynamic-duo-tackles-waste-20240827-2\/"},"modified":"2025-03-21T12:49:33","modified_gmt":"2025-03-21T10:49:33","slug":"dynamic-duo-tackles-waste-20240827-2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/districtmailhelderberg\/dynamic-duo-tackles-waste-20240827-2\/","title":{"rendered":"Dynamic duo tackles waste"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

In an industry traditionally dominated by men, two women have carved a niche for themselves<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lifelong friends Vanessa Bam and Sonja McGregor are making their mark in waste management, having transformed their lives from housewives to business owners tackling the region\u2019s sewage and waste challenges head-on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Their journey began when a generous gift from McGregor\u2019s husband Roy, a truck, sparked an idea. With decades of farming experience under their belts they identified a pressing need in the area: efficient and reliable sewage and waste removal services. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cNone of the farms had this service,\u201d said McGregor. \u201cThe municipality struggled to cope, and people were dealing with overflowing septic tanks and clogged drains.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recognising a gap in the market, the duo partnered with a mentor who had expertise in the industry. They launched their business, Royally Flushed, armed with a semi-industrial truck equipped with a jet to shoot solid waste out and a vacuum system reaching 60 m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Their services extend beyond traditional sewage removal. They also offer carbon-filter installation, drain cleaning and assistance with pump stations. \u201cWe\u2019ve helped with contaminated waste, which is a massive problem,\u201d said Bam. \u201cThere\u2019s a huge process involved in getting rid of it.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While the business is still in its infancy, having started just over a year ago, it\u2019s already gaining traction. Their commitment to quality service and attention to detail has earned them a reputation for excellence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cWe do what others don\u2019t,\u201d McGregor related. \u201cWe come in and finish the job, providing a wash-down service.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Balancing their business with their personal lives is no easy feat. The duo also refer to themselves as \u201cFarm Hers\u201d as they manage a farm at their small-holding called Cottage Stream at Knorhoek in Sir Lowry\u2019s Pass, with sheep, cows, chickens and a thriving egg business that supplies homes in the area, while McGregor also oversees the waste management operations. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Yet, they manage to share a unique synergy. \u201cWe share a brain cell,\u201d laughed Bam. \u201cWhere one can\u2019t, the other takes over.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Their business has faced its challenges. Setting up the operation was no small task, and they\u2019re currently focused on growing their business to justify a second truck. But their determination is unwavering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cFind your perfect partner in crime,\u201d advised Bam. \u201cThe sky is the limit. Anything is possible with women. We complement each other all the time.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As they continue to expand their business, Bam and McGregor are not only providing a valuable service to their community but also inspiring other women to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. <\/p>\n\n\n\n