More than a potjie. A story of teamwork, creativity, and the power of bringing people together.
On a chilly winter morning, before the fires were lit and before the first cast iron pot touched the coals, there was already something special happening.
The Biozone Outlaws had arrived.
Eight teammates. One shared goal. Countless hours of preparation.
What started as a friendly office conversation weeks earlier had grown into something much bigger than a potjie competition.
It became a project that united our team in a way none of us expected.
And at the end of the day…
Out of 25 competing teams, the Biozone Outlaws rode away with First Prize.
It Started with an Idea
When we heard about the annual Vat ‘n Bietjie Potjie Competition, we knew we didn’t just want to enter—we wanted to create an experience.
As a company, Biozone Manufacturing is known for engineering innovative water, air and wastewater treatment solutions. We solve complex problems every day.
So naturally, we approached a potjie competition the same way.
With planning, creativity, attention to detail. And perhaps a little friendly obsession.
But instead of simply choosing a recipe, we built an identity and “The Biozone Outlaws” were born.
A western cowboy team complete with cowboy hats, denim shirts, boots, country music and a stand designed to transport visitors straight into the heart of the Wild West.
Meet the Outlaws
The team behind the winning potjie consisted of:
- Ian
- Cheryll
- Wesley
- Fionna
- Joash
- Samantha
- Nicholas
- Juno
Every person played a role. Some prepared ingredients, some managed the fire, some perfected the presentation and some welcomed visitors and shared the Biozone story.
Like any great team, everyone contributed!
The Legend of Sweet Lamb Alabama
Every legendary outlaw has a story and ours was called Sweet Lamb Alabama.
Our lamb shanks were submerged for a full 24 hours in a bold marinade of red wine, cola and soy sauce before slowly cooking over an open fire with garlic, fresh ginger, baby onions, herbs, dried peaches and a rich blend of stocks and seasonings.
The result was exactly what we had hoped for. Tender, deeply savoury, yet slightly sweet and comforting.
The kind of meal that makes people pause after the first bite before smiling.
But no outlaw rides alone – our potjie was accompanied by six carefully crafted side dishes:
- Tomato, Onion & Carrot Sambal
- Cucumber & Yoghurt Salad
- Banana & Coconut Salad
- Fragrant Basmati Rice
- Homemade Cornbread
- Yahoo Cowboy Beans
Each one was designed to complement the potjie while adding its own personality to the plate.
From the very beginning, we wanted visitors to experience more than food so we created a full western-inspired stand so the people that came to enjoy a great meal, also discovered who we are as a company.
For us, that was just as important!
A Win Worth Celebrating
As the judging came to an end, excitement spread through the crowd.
When the results were announced, we were incredibly proud to hear the words:
First Place — The Biozone Outlaws!
Out of 25 teams, our little group of engineers, marketers and problem-solvers had created something truly memorable. But the real reward was seeing months of planning, collaboration and creativity come together in one unforgettable day.
Until Next Time…
If there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that a little creativity can go a long way.
The fires have gone out.
The last spoonful of Sweet Lamb Alabama has been enjoyed.
The trophy has found its place.
But one question is already being asked around the office:
“What theme are we doing next year?”
One thing is certain.
The Biozone Outlaws may have ridden off into the sunset…but they’ll be back!
Biozone Manufacturing is a South African company specialising in innovative water treatment, wastewater treatment and air treatment solutions. By harnessing advanced ozone technology and sustainable engineering, we help businesses, municipalities and industries improve environmental performance while delivering reliable, high-quality treatment systems.
