cooking over a fire as a child and went on to publish several cookbooks, including Mynie Speel Met Vuur, which showcased the creativity and community spirit of South Africa’s outdoor cooking traditions. Through television, events and workshops, she helped promote braai as both a culinary art and a shared social experience.
Career and influence
Beyond television, Mynie was also a commercial pilot and frequently combined her aviation experience with her culinary projects, travelling to remote areas and using her platform to celebrate regional produce and traditional techniques.
Her approach to food was rooted in simplicity, storytelling and authenticity - values that resonated widely within South Africa’s culinary scene. Mynie’s work inspired chefs and home cooks alike to rediscover traditional fire-based methods and to approach food with curiosity and respect for ingredients.
Industry tributes
Tributes have been shared across South African media, highlighting her generosity and the warmth she brought to both her kitchen and the screen. One colleague described her as “patient, kind and funny, with a rare ability to make people feel valued”.
Investigation ongoing
Authorities confirmed that Mynie was conducting an agricultural spraying operation at the time of the crash. No other injuries were reported. The SACAA’s Accidents and Incidents Investigation Division has launched an inquiry to determine the cause.
