André was born in Stellenbosch but grew up in the beautiful Paarl Valley. He obtained his matric at Technical High School in Oudtshoorn and joined the SAPS in Malmesbury the following year and started his police training in Pretoria at the mounted unit.
After completing his training, André was posted to the Boesmansnek Borderpost (Lesotho-KZN border) and served in the stock theft unit. It was here that he met his wife of 30 years, Sheena. The couple have three children.
André left the SAPS at the end of 1994 to open his own business. He ran successful companies in the forestry, agricultural, private security, and transport industries and also ran his own farming operation while living on the family farm. A large part of his life has been dedicated to law enforcement/private security/policing and he has extensive experience in this field. Protecting fellow citizens remain a passion of his till this day.
André has always loved being involved with his community on all levels. He taught rugby at primary school level, loves all things equine and is a keen angler.