Hanlie grew up in a farm in Stellenbosch. She has been employed at Stellenbosch University since she was 20 years old – currently a total of 36 years service, working at various departments, divisions, the Business school and as PA to two Deans at the Faculty of AgriSciences.  Hanlie was very surprised and honoured when she received a honourary membership from the Viticulture and Oenology Alumni Student Bond (BOWWUS) after working in the Department of Viticulture and Oenology for fifteen years, where she met alot of famous winemakers and farmers during their years studying at the university. She enjoys scrapbooking, sewing, knitting, camping, long walks with her husband and Kara, their German Sherpherd on the beach, to mention a few.