Groundskeeping Journal - Issue 28 2025

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In this issue

Welcome to Groundskeeping Journal, the UK’s leading bi-monthly publication providing latest product innovations, industry news and opinions from key professionals within the industry. With focuses on Aeration, Irrigation & Drainage; Greenskeeping; Latest News; Machinery; Pitch & Line Marking; Specialist Mowers; Sports Ground Equipment; Sports Pitches; Top Dressing; Sprayers & Spraying and Turf Management.

6 Wiedenmann

UK dealers offer unique surface conditioning solutions!

14 The Minion the Groundkeepers new best friend

20 Makita Expand Your Cordless Kit With A Free Battery From Makita

24 George Browns delivers the full package for Mytime Active

28 Kubota Fleet of RTV’s prove pivotal to operations at Bearwood Lakes

32 Trimax NexaBlades Set a New Benchmark in Fine Turf Mowing

34 Suståne more than three decades of consistent quality at Came Down Golf Club

38 Terrain Aeration relieve compaction, panning, and waterlogging

44 ISEKI UK Proud to be Part of Watcombe Wanderers U14s Girls Journey

50 EVO96 The World’s LARGEST Electric Zero Turn Mower

Hand Placed Concrete Bagwork

Biodegradable bags and liners enabling the hand placement of concrete, suitable for applications such as scour protection, void filling, underpinning, culvert headwalls, retaining walls or protection of riverbanks and bridges.

The real savings are not in material costs, but in the time saved in having a ready-toinstall product, and not having to dewater the watercourse to place the bagwork.

MSE Soil Filled Bagwork

SoluForm MSE Bagwork is supplied pre-filled with a high quality sand rich topsoil supplied in a form that is ready to use and assemble on site once it arrives.

It aims to establish and promote vegetation growth on, and inside the bagwork, giving the bagwork structure an improved appearance.

Contact Us

Enhancing Quality Sports

been created to showcase the very latest industry news and product information from the Groundskeeping sector.

In each edition we carry in depth articles from some of the industry leaders, the articles cover many aspects of Groundskeeping with some offering tips and advice on Sports Pitches, Turf Management, Greens Keeping and much, much more. Whether you are looking for tips and advice on creating the perfect green or looking to www.tinymobilerobots.com

Tiny Helper. Major Impact. Tiny Helper. Major Impact.

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For Every Pitch and Every Pocket: Whether you're a small club or a major council, our robot adapts to your needs.

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Follow us on our Social Media Contact the Groundskeeping Journal team below: @gkj_mag

Editor-In-Chief

Antony Holter

editor@mhmagazine.co.uk 01304 806039

Editor

Emma Page

emma@groundskeepingjournal.co.uk 01304 806039

Publishing Director

Martin Holmes

martin@mhmagazine.co.uk 01304 806039

Sales Director

Lee Martin

lee@groundskeepingjournal.co.uk 01227 936974

Business Manager

Josh Holmes

josh@mhmagazine.co.uk 01304 806039

Studio Designer

Alex MacDonald

Digital Manager

Jamie Bullock

jamie@mhmagazine.co.uk 01227 936971

Accounts Department

Alison Holmes

accounts@mhmediaglobal.com 01227 936971

Wiedenmann UK dealers offer unique surface conditioning solutions with Maredo MT series

ith ‘M’ standing for mounted and ‘T’ standing for trailed, the Maredo MT series provides a rapid response to difficulties occurring in the vital area just beneath the turf surface.

The units comprise three independent floating heads and an ‘A’ frame with pivot point which makes turning simple. Each head – or task cassette -measures just over 63 cm, giving a 1.9 m total working width. They attach to tractors, min 30 HP, via 3-point linkage PTO, Category I.

Originally launched with just two task cassettes – the MT 200 Flex-Verticutter and the MT210 VibeSpike-Aerator- these two cassettes were met with instant acclaim. There are now five popular models in the MT series, with additions of the MT170 FlexFraze mower and the MT410 DiscSeeder (bent) or

MT418 Disc Seeder (fescue).

The cleverly configurated heads with their flexi suspension cover ground amazingly quickly. Indeed, whether in scarifying, aerating, fraise-mowing or overseeding mode, operator feedback is always about how thorough and tidy a job they have made and their impressive work rate.

• The MT 200 Flex-Verticutter removes thatch cleanly and at speed. Easy adjustment allows for a light scarification by just letting the blades touch the top layer or it can be set deeper down to depths of around 25 mm where it removes much more.

• The MT210 VibeSpike Aerator allows for expert following of undulations, leaving smooth surfaces. The spike tools vibrate to crack the soil, punching holes to let air and nutrients through.

• The MT170 Flex Frase mower targets problem areas and strips off up to 20 mm of the turf’s top layer, leaving a perfectly flat and smooth surface ready for other desired practices. It is also ideal for removing undulations on goal mouths, tee boxes and other surfaces.

• The MT410 Disc Seeder (bent) or MT418 Disc Seeder (fescue) heads uses unique technology to plant the seed right where it should be and protect it against all kinds of outside influences. This is a slit disc seeder which can dose seed from 0 to -15 mm at as low as 2 g/m ² to 15 g / m². Each seed box carries up to 12 kg of seed, with disc seeder slit spacings at 42 mm.

Brought to you via your local Wiedenmann UK dealer 0141 814 3366 www.maredo-bv. com info@wiedenmann.co.uk

Lister Wilder win the treble at Baroness dealer awards!

After a record-breaking year of growth and success, Baroness UK celebrated achievements at BTME 2025 with the return of their annual dealer awards. For the first time, the three categories of Highest Overall Machinery Sales, Highest Growth in Machinery Sales and Salesperson of the Year we’re all won by the team at Lister Wilder!

The Baroness UK dealer awards were introduced to recognise the outstanding individual and team efforts across the nationwide network. While it’s fair to say that 2024 presented its share of challenges, it was Lister Wilder who emerged as the winners of all three categories – achieving the treble and clean-sweep for the very first time. Alongside the team awards for overall sales and highest growth in machinery sales, the individual ‘Salesperson of the Year’ award was presented to Lister Wilder’s David Gray.

“It was a huge surprise, and an incredible honour to find out we’d scooped all three awards” comments Phill Hughes, Sales Director for Lister Wilder. “I am especially pleased for David Gray who has championed Baroness and shown his total dedication to our golf customers over the last twelve months. This recognition goes some way to reward him for all the hard work he’s put in. Of course, we couldn’t achieve what we

have without the support of Team Baroness and our aftersales departments, so we’d like to thank them all as we look ahead to another positive year.”

“All of our dealers have put in an incredible effort throughout 2024 and it becoming our best year yet would simply not have been possible without the unwavering commitment

of our entire network” adds Baroness UK Sales Director Adam Butler. “We continue to strive for the very best equipment matched by worldleading backup, and we’re getting there year-on-year. The whole team at Baroness UK extend huge congratulations to David and the Lister Wilder team and thank all of our dealers and customers for their unwavering and ongoing support.”

Melgreen: Thalassotherapy for turfgrass

Trampling, slipping, tackles... and mowing! The daily life of sports turf is no less demanding than that of the athletes. So why not use thalassotherapy to maintain them?

Sports turf, like athletes, are subjected to constant and sometimes intense stresses. Similar to athletes, they need to be prepared in anticipation of events and recover after exertion. While seaweeds are well-known for their benefits to the bodies of our champions, their virtues for turfgrass are perhaps less recognised, yet...

Red seaweeds to stimulate physiology and enhance turfgrass resistance

Rich in marine trace elements and proteins, red seaweeds also contain specific sugars unique to algae, such as carrageenans and floridosides, which have numerous bioactive properties on plants.

The company Olmix harvests the red seaweeds Solieria chordalis from the French coasts of Brittany and the Pays de la Loire in order to extract the active compounds at its state-of-the-art biorefinery located in central Brittany.

Concentrated in the R-SEANERGY® technology, these ingredients activate receptors on the surface of plants leaves and trigger metabolic stimulation reactions including: increased photosynthesis, stimulation of root growth, enhanced nutrient absorption, and activation of stress resistance mechanisms.

Based on the concentrated extract of red seaweed R-SEANERGY®, Olmix has developed the Melgreen range of foliar solutions, designed for the maintenance and improvement of sports turf.

Melgreen SPRINTER: Supporting turf during establishment and the beginning of the season.

The vigor of turfgrass rooting is a key factor in its quality and longevity. Unfortunately, trampling and uprooting, which are inherent to the use of sports fields, as well as the frequent renewal of grass, leave little time for plants to develop a dense and deep root system. Thanks to the red seaweed extract R-SEANERGY®, combined with manganese, Melgreen SPRINTER boosts root activity and photosynthesis in turfgrass, starting from the end of winter, during overseeding operations or during the establishment of new turf.

Melgreen ARMOR: Preserve leaf quality and support the protection strategy

The accumulation of energy by the plant and the robustness of its tissues are essential for achieving healthy and high-quality turf throughout the year. To achieve this, it is crucial to maintain optimal leaf quality in order to ensure efficient photosynthesis and the vitality of the turf, regardless of the season. Melgreen ARMOR combines the red seaweed extract R-SEANERGY® with highly efficient micronized copper to provide a nutritional supplement to turf protection programs and maintain the integrity and proper functioning of the leaf blades that make up the turf.

Melgreen ELITE: Enhance the resistance of turfgrass to stress

In periods of intensive use, grass is subjected to numerous stresses caused, not only by sports activities, but also by maintenance operations and increasingly pronounced climatic stresses. These stresses impair the plant’s ability to properly absorb nutrients and maintain optimal physiology. Melgreen ELITE is based on R-SEALICA® technology, a patented combination of the red seaweed extract R-SEANERGY® and a specific monomeric silica. R-SEALICA® technology activates the plant’s genes involved in defense reactions against abiotic stresses, thereby enhancing the resilience of turfgrass.

For more information on Melgreen and other Olmix products, contact Collier Turf Care on 012328 700600 or email sales@collier-turf-care.co.uk

Red seaweeds to stimulate physiology and enhance turfgrass resistance

NEW in the UK for 2025

Supporting turf during establishment and the beginning of the season

Thanks to the red seaweed extract R-SEANERGY®, combined with manganese, Melgreen SPRINTER boosts root activity and photosynthesis in turfgrass, starting from the end of winter, during overseeding operations or during the establishment of new turf areas.

Pack Size: 5 ltr

Application: 3 ltr / ha

Enhance the resistance of turfgrass to stress

Melgreen ELITE is based on R-SEALICA® technology, a patented combination of the red seaweed extract R-SEANERGY® and a specific monomeric silica. R-SEALICA® technology activates the plant’s genes involved in defense reactions against abiotic stresses, thereby enhancing the resilience of turfgrass.

Pack Size: 5 ltr

Application: 3 - 5 ltr / ha

Preserve

leaf quality and support the protection strategy

Melgreen ARMOR combines the red seaweed extract R-SEANERGY® with highly efficient micronized copper to provide a nutritional supplement to turf protection programs and maintain the integrity and proper functioning of the leaf blades that make up the turf.

Pack Size: 5 ltr

Application: 2.5 ltr / ha

Spring: a crucial time for grounds management

As we move from winter to spring, we enter a crucial window for grounds management. Milder temperatures make this a really important time for pitch recovery and preparation. The transition between seasons presents both opportunities and challenges – so now’s the time to lay the groundwork for healthy growth in the months ahead. Tom Rowley, Key Account Manager for football at the Grounds Management Association (GMA), explains more.

Key tasks for spring

Spring is traditionally a busy time in grounds management, and there are a few key tasks that should be top of your to-do list.

Mowing

• Increase your cut frequency and gradually reduce the height of the cut to encourage healthy growth.

• Remember to avoid removing more than one-third of the grass blade length in a single mowing session. This gentle approach minimises stress on the grass and promotes healthy growth

Fertilisation

• If grass shows signs of stress – such as weak growth or discoloration – applying a controlled-release fertiliser can help restore vitality. This should only be a applied by a qualified operator.

Worn Areas

• Bare patches that developed over winter should now be repaired and overseeded to promote even coverage.

Aeration

• For groundspeople who maintain winter sports pitches, such as football and rugby, aeration is key at this time of year.

• Aeration removes harmful gases from the soil and increases oxygen levels, leading to healthier root systems.

It also improves water infiltration, allowing pitches

to drain more efficiently and providing a drier, more playable surface.

Weeds

It’s not just the grass that grows more in spring – weeds also thrive at this time of year, so it’s important to keep on top of them.

• Apply selective herbicide where required, a weed killer capable of controlling one type of weed without harming the plants you do want. Again, this should only be applied by a qualified operator.

Planning

For winter sports pitches, now is a crucial time to start planning and finalising your spring renovations. Assess your pitches for areas needing extra attention and set budgets for repairs, overseeding or relaying.

Potential challenges to consider Weather and climate change

Spring brings milder temperatures, but climate change means unpredictable weather is becoming an increasing challenge in our industry – all year round.

In 2024, rainfall in parts of the UK was up 147% on the long-term average, and at the GMA, we saw a 244% increase in requests for assistance due to water-related issues.

So, the weather needs to be on your radar. Make sure you’re not caught unawares – monitor forecasts carefully. As grounds managers, we obviously can’t control the weather (as much as we might like to!) but we can make sure we’re prepared for every eventuality.

The GMA offers fantastic resources to help groundspeople stay on top of whatever the

weather throws at us. The GMA’s education resources are accredited by the Department for Education’s matrix Standard, ensuring the highest quality of information, advice and guidance.

It’s also worthwhile considering our own impact on climate change. If you have the opportunity, adopting sustainable grounds management methods can make a real difference. This includes using environmentally friendly treatments and doing what you can to preserve natural habitats. It also means keeping a close eye on things like water and energy use. Carefully managing resources isn’t just good for the environment – it can help extend your budget too.

Legislation: Plant Protection Products Bill and Integrated Pest

and Disease Management

This is a big talking point in the industry at the moment.

At the time of printing, the second sitting of the Plant Protection Products Bill is scheduled for April, grounds staff need to remain flexible in their approach to maintenance.

The bill may limit the use of certain products, so make sure you’re up to date with all the

latest Integrated Pest and Disease Management (IPM) guidance.

Stay ahead of the game with the GMA

If you’re looking to keep on top of seasonal tasks or navigate the challenges of our everevolving industry, the GMA provides its members with a wealth of support, including:

The latest best practice guidelines and industry updates

Discounted rates on industry-leading training courses and events

One-to-one expert advice from industry professionals

Members also gain exclusive access to our brandnew Member Assistance Programme, and discounts from high street retailers.

Learn more about GMA membership and take full advantage at this crucial time of year: www.thegma.org.uk/membership

And for essential grounds maintenance resources, go to: https://www.thegma.org. uk/helpful-links/toolkit/

Market Harborough Rugby Club

Delight Volunteers with Iseki

TLE3410 Compact Tractor

The Iseki TLE3410 has made a world of difference for the Market Harborough Rugby Club volunteer grounds team who are saving days’ worth of time a week using the compact tractor to mow.

Founded in 1923, the club, located on the south Leicestershire and north Northamptonshire border, has grown dramatically in the past ten years and now has teams of boys and girls from five to 18 years old on a Sunday through to the three men’s teams on a Saturday.

Ten acres of land containing seven full-size rugby pitches are used to host training and matches for all the teams, but with mowing alone previously taking two to three days, the club actively sought a solution and was soon in contact with their local Iseki dealer, Euromec.

“Originally with a 22-horsepower tractor, it was taking them around two to three days to cut the pitches, which is just a crazy amount of time for volunteers, so we needed to get that time down for them to a sensible level,” Euromec Managing Director Graham Hill explained.

“The briefing they had from the Pitch Advisors Association was a 30 to 40-horsepower tractor, and when we came and looked at the site, we thought the TLE3410 was the best option for them with the deck on the back so they could cover the ground quickly, cut the grass quicker and get a good quality finish.”

With the TLE3410 in place for some months, the ease of mowing and the quality achieved have been noticeable by the grounds team, and whilst pitch quality is speaking for itself, the service provided by Euromec has been equally

as impressive to volunteer groundsman Tony Waterfield.

“We were struggling to keep up with the general maintenance of the pitches, which is why we decided to up the size of our tractor, and compared to what we’ve had in the past, the TLE3410 is noticeably better,” Tony said.

“We can mow the seven pitches a lot quicker, and I mean a lot quicker, than we used to, and with everything done by volunteers, that obviously matters a lot.

“Our volunteers have taken to it very quickly because it’s easy to use, it’s easy to manoeuvre, it’s

easy to park and easy to reverse. It’s a powerful machine but with ease, which is important.

“Euromec’s service has really backed up the tractor’s performance. They have been very good, not just selling the tractor but demonstrating it, explaining it and our different options for mowers.

“And any problems we’ve had, they’re instantly here. Again, for a club that has to rely on volunteers, when we break down, we really need it fixed, and with the number of teams we’ve got playing, it’s imperative we have a good playing surface, and the machinery must be

tip-top, which the Iseki is.”

The TLE3410 is perfect for volunteer grounds teams due to its simple, intuitive controls and impressive lift capacity, which allows users to handle heavy implements and tasks effortlessly.

At the same time, its robust power ensures reliable performance for mowing, aerating, or transporting materials. This combination of user-friendly design, strength, and versatility makes the TLE3410 a practical, efficient choice for volunteers maintaining sports pitches or grounds with ease and confidence.

New airter® models and partnership promise to revolutionise active aeration

ister Wilder have reached an agreement with Novokraft AG to become the new exclusive UK importer for airter® – the world’s only continuous and homogenously operating pneumatic soil aerator. In an exciting time for the partnership, two brand new airter® machines are set to be unveiled to the UK market at BTME 2025, with the airter® neo and airter® trike on show on stand 642.

After more than three years in development, the airter® neo and airter® trike are set to revolutionise sports turf aeration, utilising high compressed air to not only break through surface compaction, but provide 100% biological and effective control of pests, root-damaging grubs and Tipula larvae (Leather Jackets).

The new airter® neo 12140 is equipped with 12 lances making

it ideal for large golf greens and football pitches, which can be covered in less than three and a half hours. One of the largest models in the airter® range, it’s set to deliver high productivity without excess weight preventing any further, unnecessary compaction.

Designed for smaller areas such as golf greens, the airter® trike 8140 is an electrically driven, self-propelled unit featuring 8 lances for impressive aeration. Work is also underway which will see the airter® trike become the first autonomous model in the range.

The working depth on both machines can also now be quickly and easily adjusted, tool-free, directly on the unit to suit operations between 8cm and 20cm in the ground.

Commenting on their appointment, Sales & Hire

Director for Lister Wilder Phill Hughes said, “We’re delighted to be partnering with Novokraft to bring the airter® to the UK. The benefits that the machines offer for aeration and water filtration are exceptional but add to that the reported reduction of Chafer grubs and Leather Jackets through regular use, we believe these machines will play a vital part for the future of sports turf management.”

“In Lister Wilder, Novokraft AG has a strong and trustworthy partner for the distribution and sale of our newly developed airter® machines, which will redefine the market for active, deep compaction relief” adds Eric Hardman, CEO of Novokraft AG.

More information on the new additions, and the full airter® range can be found at airter.com

Revolutionising Vehicle Security

Introduced to the agriculture market in 2012, ATVTrac has gone on to become one of the most highly regarded tracking products, thanks to the team’s dedicated approach to ATV and Side-by-side and machinery security, with its proven multi-tier technology. Benefitting from GPS, GSM and RF (radio frequency), ATVTrac was the first to offer such technology in a dedicated device, allowing the team to not only track down stolen ATVs, Quads and UTVs, as well as other farm machinery, but be able to assist in proactive recoveries, where only RF could offer detailed location information. ATVTrac also offers lone worker protection too and has expanded its applications to cover all types of farm machinery. www.atvtrac.co.uk

Chelwood Tool Co. Ltd

• Installation – Golf, Sports & Landscape

• Service and Maintenance of Irrigation Systems

• Product Supply

• Water Storage

• Water Features

• Clear Water Recycling System

Turf Irrigation Services (Scotland) LTD, Unit 6A Mill Road Industrial Estate, Linlithgow, EH49 7SF

Email: tis@turfirrigationservices.co.uk

Web: www.turfirrigationservices.co.uk

Tel: 01506 848494

We offer a large range of rakes for all reasons, in sizes ranging from 35cm to 100cm wide, with a variety of tooth gaps. We also offer a heavy duty aluminium snow type multi-purpose shovel, Animal bedding forks and our new Chelute® .

Meet The Minion –the Groundkeepers new best friend

lite Precast Concrete’s latest innovation, the Minion-bollard®, is revolutionising urban security and landscaping management.

The versatile precast concrete solution is rapidly gaining popularity amongst groundkeepers for its multifaceted benefits in parks, public spaces, golf courses, leisure facilities and urban environments.

Elite’s Business Development Director, Paul Cartwright explains how the Minion-bollard® is benefiting groundkeepers with their usage and businesses with their compliance and

competitiveness, meaning the Minion-bollard® is ticking all the boxes for every stakeholder involved, including facility visitors.

Paul goes on to explain that the versatility of the Minionbollards® offers groundkeepers the following benefits:

Access – Minion-bollards® are both permanent and semi-permanent, so can be removed to clear areas to allow for access or mow parklands, making them ideal of maintenance. This flexibility enables groundkeepers to efficiently maintain green spaces with permanent obstacles.

Versatility – As freestanding bollards, the Minion can be installed without additional anchoring. This allows groundkeepers to easily reposition them as needed for different events or seasonal changes in land usage.

Safety – By guiding pedestrians away from roads and car parks, Minion-bollards® help to minimise the risk of accidents or injuries. This creates a safer environment for both visitors and maintenance staff and as the name suggests, the distinctive shape serves as a clear visual maker, while offering security.

Maintenance – Concrete bollards, including Minion-bollards®, are designed for long-term performance with minimal upkeep. Their resistance to the elements and non-porous surfaces makes

them less pxrone to staining and damage, reducing the workload for groundskeeping staff.

Access – For special events or maintenance work, Minionbollards® can be quickly removed to allow vehicle access when needed. This feature is particularly useful for setting up events or bringing in equipment for groundskeeping tasks.

Protection – Stop cars and other vehicles from ruining your grounds or events. Minion-bollards® can be installed for permanent or temporary edge protection, without ruining the look of your area.

Cost Effectiveness - The bollards can be used as standalone units or be linked together, using chains and can hold signage, offering flexibility throughout your grounds, reducing the need for separate products for different usages.

Paul finishes by clarifying that by incorporating Minionbollards®, groundkeepers can more effectively manage public spaces, while maintaining safety, accessibility, aesthetic appeal and most importantly making their lives easier.

The Minion offers functionality, security, availability and looks, which is why it’s the groundkeeper’s new best friend.

For more information, please visit www.eliteprecast.co.uk/safetysecurity-barriers/minion-bollards/

Big Block Retaining Wall System

• Cost effective

• Fast to build

• Simple to install

• Aesthetically pleasing

• Readily available

• Dry laid

• Straight and curved walls made

• Secure solutions

It’s tried and trusted Trilo’s – time and time again – for Gavin Jones

ith a remit of defence and public open spaces, Gavin Jones is one of five companies that make up the wider Nurture Group. Helping the team to deliver maintenance contracts on Ministry of Defence (MOD) sites across the southwest are a fleet of multi-functional units from Trilo – the current compliment of three M8’s, one M10 and one S12 adding to a long list of reliable performance delivered by Trilo machines for over a decade.

Andy Mighall has been the Regional Manager for the southwest for the last 14 years and explains why the company comes back to Trilo time and time again. “We’ve run blowers, SG400’s and SU40’s in the past and where they would have primarily been purchased for leaf clearance, the newer units give us the multi-functionality to conduct tasks year-round”

he explains. “In our experience, there’s no other machines out there that combine the versatility and reliability we get from Trilo.”

The current fleet was procured over a two-year period from supporting dealers Lister Wilder, and now reside with teams based at five of the largest MOD sites across the region. “From October to March they’re utilised for leaf clearance, which is incredibly quick and efficient compared to alternative methods. Our new units offer the ability to control the Wanderhose from the cab which saves someone having to operate it manually and now frees that person up to do other tasks.”

Trilo’s Multipurpose (M) range enables the swift switching between shafts to conduct multiple maintenance tasks, all with one machine, a feature which Gavin

Jones utilise to the full! Andy continues, “We additionally purchased the scarifier and flail shafts which means that come the summer we can use the Trilo’s not only for site clearance and collection of arisings from large area grass cutting, but also to conduct those cut and collection tasks and/or scarification on areas such as the airfields.”

“Together with great efficiency and build quality, something we’ve also always had with Trilo is great back-up support from Listers and Vanmac’s Jeremy Vincent. On the delivery of the newest machine, Jeremy delivered full installation and familiarity training which means every operator has the knowledge and confidence to get the very best out of each machine.”

For more information please visit: www.nurture-group.co.uk

Berthoud quality shines through

Berthoud have been producing sprayers since 1895 but their impact onto the UK & Ireland turf market has risen to stratospheric levels over the last 15 years with the introduction of the ‘portage sante’ – French for ‘health harness’, now thankfully known as the ‘Comfort harness’ . It was the first combined fully padded harness and belt system more familiar to hiking and camping backpacks, so revolutionary, even today, it was found in clinical testing to reduce stress on the back & joints by over 70% compared to typical harness designs. Turf specialists and groundskeepers who used sprayers over long durations were quick to capitalise on the comfort and reduced fatigue it offered.

A common sight now amongst spraying professionals in sports, lawncare, industry and even Youtube influencers

(see : Premier Lawns, Daniel Hibbert Lawn Expert), the Vermorel 2000 Pro Comfort and the Vermorel 3000 electric sprayer are complimented by other sprayers in the range to suit different needs and budgets, such as the Berthoud 1800 and the Cosmos.

Not resting on their laurels, Berthoud have also invented the only hand pump sprayer, the Berthoud Elyte Pro, capable of continuous use while walking. It is pressure tested to over 4 times it’s stated maximum. Indeed, all Vermorel sprayers are extensively quality- tested during production with one in eight, fresh off the production line, filled with water and used for working tests including holding high BAR pressures for a timed period.

This commitment to quality and reliability chimes with the modern

customer who can see not only the ergonomic benefits with Berthoud for their workforce but also the significant environmental benefits. Their durability and longevity means eliminating frequent purchasing of cheap imports, which reduces claims on resources and also the carbon footprint associated with shipping long distances. By investing in high-quality, better products, consumers produce a better result. Plus they contribute to a more sustainable future, minimizing waste and promoting environmental responsibility.

All Berthoud products are warranted (between 2-5 years) and are repairable thanks to our After Sales Service which guarantees the availability of spare parts for at least 10 years after the end of a sprayers production.

Expand Your Cordless Kit With A Free Battery From Makita

Leading power tool manufacturer Makita UK has launched a new cordless garden redemption promotion, where end users can claim a FREE XGT 4.0Ah high capacity ‘Tabless Technology’ battery with the purchase of selected outdoor equipment.

Makita’s latest garden machinery promotion gives end users the chance to claim a free 4.0Ah BL4040F Battery with the purchase and registration of a wide selection of its powerful XGT and Connect-X outdoor garden products – including cordless lawn mowers, blowers, hedge trimmers, split shafts, chainsaws and more.

Customers who have purchased any of the qualifying models from an authorised dealer between 01.03.25 and 30.09.25 should register their purchase online via the redemption promotion website within 28 days of making their purchase to claim their free product. On successful application, customers will receive their free gift after 30 days.

Compatible with all of Makita’s XGT products and with an optimum charge time of just 50 minutes with a rapid charger, the BL4040F Battery has been developed for high demand tools used in continuous operations – delivering a remarkable 35% increase in power compared to the standard BL4040 4.0Ah model.

Engineered with tabless cell technology and an enhanced cooling system, the BL4040F runs cooler, maintaining peak performance even under heavy, continuous loads. As with all Makita batteries, the BL4040F features an advanced design impact-resistant outer case and shock-absorbing inner liner engineered to protect the battery in harsh job site environments. The digital communication between the battery and the tools optimises performance for every task to provide up to 2x longer sustained power under heavy-load applications, as well as actively monitoring and protecting

against overload, overdischarge, and overheating.

XGT and Connect-X are Makita’s most powerful cordless solutions to date and provide professional users with the high levels of performance needed for professional use, without compromising on battery run time or charge time. Experience the performance of the equivalent petrol products without the noise, emissions or challenges of storing, transporting and handling fuel.

For more information on the promotion and its terms and conditions, visit: www.makitauk.com/ redemption.

Marcelin College stopped wasting time on line marking

At Marcelin College line marking has always been a hefty task. With 5 cricket grounds, two Australian Football grounds, two football pitches, one rugby field and a line athletics track, it takes two people 3-4 days to manually mark the pitches.

“We used to have two manual line markers for an initial set up. We had to string out, measure, get it all accurate and squared. Mixing the paint, washing out the pumps. It was quite time consuming,” states Kevin Davis, Head of Grounds and Gardens for Marcelin College. “The robots made things so much easier. We can now complete it all in one day”, he continues.

For the Marcelin College, located 9 miles west of Melbourne, Australia, it has meant a tremendous amount of time savings to switch from manual line marking to a TinyMobileRobot.

“Our first football pitch, marked by a robot, took us about 15 minutes to learn to set up on

the tablet, and 20 minutes to mark, so in the total we had a done pitch in 35 minutes”, Kevin Davis explains. The ability to control your fields on the tablet, where it saves everything in the cloud, have made it easy for Kevin to keep track of all the different sports he manages.

“We can interchange between the different sports templates with a touch of a button. I’m not the most technical person, but I quickly learned that the tablet actually was quite easy to use, and if I can use it, so can anybody,” Kevin says.

Initially Kevin Davis was not so pleased with the idea of using a line marking robot. “When I first heard about robotic line markers, I thought I’d be put out of a job. But it’s actually been the opposite I must admit. The robot has given us the chance to expand what we are doing on campus, and make sure that we get more done in a timely manner. Today while the robot is line marking, we can mow other places at the same time. This means that we are not wasting time on line marking anymore,” explains Kevin Davis.

Scan to see it in action

Effortless:

One person, a tablet, and some paint - the robot does the rest.

For Every Pitch and Every Pocket:

Whether you're a small club or a major council, our robot adapts to your needs.

Reliable:

You’ll never have to worry about line marking again

George Browns delivers the full package for Mytime Active

A package of Baroness and Kubota equipment, supplied by George Browns Ltd, is playing its part in the ongoing investment and development across 11 courses that make up Mytime Active. More than just supplying first-class machinery, Regional Grounds Manager for the midlands Dave Cole emphasises the importance of the ‘outstanding’ back up support and service they’ve received from all George Browns departments which has helped to keep their ambitious maintenance plans on track.

Mytime Active comprises of 11 sites – offering nine and 18-hole rounds together with footgolf at locations throughout Birmingham, Bromley and Hampshire. Specifically in the midlands under the remit of

Dave and his team of 20 are six courses, three of which are the beneficiaries of the latest batch of machinery upgrades.

“In taking our greenkeeping practices to new heights, we’ve completely re-kitted out three courses with the expert help of George Browns” he explains.

“Our experience with them as a dealer has always been second to none; whether that’s William Montgomerie giving us the tailored, expert advice when it comes to machine specification and on-site training, or James Bailey in their Daventry service department who is phenomenal at technical support. As we all know, the grass doesn’t stop growing if your equipment goes down! George Browns understand the pressure of time and the importance of getting fast answers, resolving any issues

quickly and going above and beyond to get us up and running.”

The new fleet of equipment installed in September 2024 consists of a Baroness GM2810, LM331 and two LM311 allhydraulic triplex mowers along with an RTV-X1110 from Kubota. “We’ve run Baroness mowers for years and find them to be bulletproof.”

Dave continues, “The cutting cylinders are industryleading and we’ve definitely witnessed a reduction in disease occurrence on our greens because of the outstanding sharpness and cut quality.”

“The Baroness machines alone give us fantastic versatility on our fleet. They’re capable of working on all ground conditions, and by adjusting the height of cut we can mow

multiple areas on our multiple sites to a very high level.”

On his Kubota RTV-X1110, Dave describes it as a fantastic allrounder! “Like the Baroness machines, the RTV is incredibly comfortable and easy to operate, and it’s become our main method of transporting people and materials around the course. It was thoroughly put through its paces over the wet autumn and winter months and it never let us down, no matter how wet it was.”

He summarises, “As we continue to develop our sites around the country, we’re delighted to have the right equipment and support around us thanks to George Browns, helping us to achieve our goals both on and off the course.”

Ladybank golf club commit to Ventrac

olchester, Essex (05 February 2025)

Ladybank Golf Club, situated in wooded heathland 10 miles west of St Andrews in Fife, is the latest prestigious Scottish golf club to purchase Ventrac equipment to assist in the maintenance of their challenging heathland championship course.

Designed by Old Tom Morris, Ladybank is a rare course; although situated in Fife, it’s not one of the famous links courses that dots the coast. It measures almost 6,800 yards from the championship tees, making great use of its heathland terrain and has changed little over the years. It requires the golfer to

display real precision to hit the small and contoured greens.

Grant Frogley is the Course Manager and is responsible for a team of 8 full-time greenkeepers, who maintain this beautiful and challenging course. During the winter of 2021-22, the club purchased an ex-demo Ventrac 4500 all-terrain compact tractor and two attachments to help maintain the course.

“I’m one of the many converts to the Ventrac compact tractor and attachments,” he said. “We had two rough mowers when I came in, each one for different areas of the course. We’re a relatively flat site in terms of

elevation, but we do have quite a lot of subtle movement with some extreme hollows and bumps. The rough mowers weren’t the best at following contours, so we found ourselves doing a lot more hand work.

“I’d seen the Ventrac at a demonstration at Gwest and knew it would be the perfect piece of kit here; a versatile machine that could do more than one task. We got it in on demo and sure enough it flew round, coped with every contour out there, without a problem.

“We’ve got the Contour deck and the Tough Cut deck. We use the Tough deck a lot during

the winter to clean up the woodlands and remove the gorse and broom. We basically cut everything that’s not on the maintained grass areas. We cut every blade of grass during the winter, so it’s very versatile and mobile for getting in amongst the trees. As I said previously, it’s very good at removing brash, gorse and broom.

“It came with a rear three-point linkage kit, which is brilliant. We bought a small sprayer with hand lance that hooks up on the back of it and we also have a terra rake, which we use a lot during winter projects, especially if we’ve got soil that just needs a tilth-up before we re-turf. It’s brilliant and such a light footprint, it just glides over the surface.

“The options are endless; we’ve demoed the stump grinder and blower. We’ve got a rear-mounted blower on a tractor, and perhaps it’s just my age, but I find looking out the back for a period of time is very uncomfortable. The seating position on the Ventrac is very comfortable and the out-front blower makes it much more userfriendly. We’ve had nothing in the way of breakdowns, servicing has been fine, one little repair on the deck and it’s hardly missed a beat.”

Grant began his career at Gleneagles in 1999, working under Peter Pattenden, and six years later went to New Zealand for a year, before returning to Gleneagles at a time when the renovations for the Ryder Cup were taking place, remodelling the PGA Centenary course. This led to construction work at Dun Laoghaire Golf Club near Dublin followed by a spell in Sweden constructing the PGA of Sweden National Golf Course near Malmo.

Returning to the UK, he was appointed deputy course manager at Gwest, where a new

championship course was being built next door to Gleneagles. Gwest never materialised into the great golf course and property that it could have been, so he took up his first course manager’s job at The Roxburghe in the Scottish Borders. Three and half years later he returned to

Gwest as course manager, with a commitment from the owners that it would be completed. Covid struck and, and unfortunately, progress with the development stalled, so in 2021 he applied for, and was successful in securing, the vacant course manager’s position at Ladybank.

Fleet of Kubota RTV’s prove pivotal to operations at Bearwood Lakes

Afleet of nine Kubota RTV’s have been described as ‘pivotal’ to the maintenance operations at Berkshire’s Bearwood Lakes Golf Club. Supplied in 2023 by local dealer Lister Wilder, the fleet are delivering the versatility

and scope to cover all course tasks – from the transportation of people, equipment and materials, to being utilised as a ball picker on the driving range!

Regularly ranked in the Top 100 Golf Courses, the venue has

undergone major redevelopment over the last eight years under the guidance of course manager Andrew Whittaker. Testament to the improvements made, Bearwood Lakes has been the host to a number of high-profile events over the past few years

We demonstrated various makes and models when we were looking to upgrade our utility vehicles, and the liking for the Kubota RTV’s was pretty unanimous among the team” Andrew explains. “For the rigours of the golf course both during summer and winter time, along with the additional demands of winter projects which we mostly undertake in-house, the RTV’s give us the versatility and power needed, as well as outstanding off-road capabilities

including the Justin Rose Ladies series, Senior Open Qualifiers and the Regional Open Qualifiers.

The fleet of nine is comprised of four RTV-X1110’s and five RTV520’s, in a mixture of ROPS and cabbed specification. “The ability to have a closed cab is something the team really liked and will be popular when the weather turns!

The 4-wheel drive and hydraulic tip are other notable features which helps us to maximise operator safety and productivity.”

Together with user-friendly operation, comfort and efficiency, Andrew also notes the back up from the local Kubota dealer, to ensure maintenance operations are kept on track. “We are

fortunate to have an excellent workshop manager in Bruce, who cares for all our equipment and maintains this to high standards each day. But we also have Lister Wilder within a 15-minute drive of the club and had the fantastic support of David Gray guiding us through the installation of our Kubota fleet, who made the process seamless for the team.”

Golfstream are really starting to turn heads in the electric trolley market.

t hasn’t been a quick process; in fact they are in their eighteenth year having started in 2008. However, this lesser know business operating from Ramsgate in Kent, sell their machines, batteries and accessories all over the world.

Golfstream machines are famed for their uniquely simple open and close mechanism, it takes less than a second, and there are no complicated catches unlike some competitors where a degree in origami is needed just to assemble!

Golfstream was set up and is run by Derek Richford and Lee Stelfox, both of whom worked at PowaKaddy for many years in what they call the “glory days” of Freeway. They have brought their vast experience and skill to Golfstream and added first class customer care into the mix too.

The range starts with the Express push cart, then the

entry level electric, the GX1 followed by the top selling GX3 and the superb GX5 that comes complete with an electronic braking system to give superb downhill control. All models feature the unique Golfstream one-click open and close.

Add to this a superb range of accessories and batteries to fit not only Golfstream trolleys, but also PowaKaddy and MotoCaddy S-Series machines and you can see why Golfstream are finally being recognised as a serious contender.

One innovation is the new Golfstream Winter Wheel. High torque but with low impact, it is the essential wet weather partner. These new wheels are also for PowaKaddy machines. Based on years of research into tyres and grip, the wheels feature a tread commonly seen in agriculture. These tyres only

ever have two parts of the tread touching the course turf at any one time and barely leave any mark. They have taken the market by storm this winter and pre-orders are now being taken for the 2025 autumn/winter season.

Have a look at the winter wheel in action, just use the QR code

Winter Golf?

Where there’s a wheel, there’s a way.

Golfstream winter wheels are available for Golfstream and PowaKaddy trolleys. These course friendly, low impact high torque wheels allow electric machines to travel on course with barely a trace. The rugged treads only have two treads

touching the surface at any time; being wider than standard tyres, the load is spread and, unlike others, are not pointed and causing depressions into the top surface.Extend your golf season with Golfstream.

How Trimax NexaBlades Set a New Benchmark in Fine Turf Mowing

Drawing on over four decades of experience, Trimax has developed a blade that redefines rotary mowing performance. Scientifically tested and proven, the Trimax NexaBlade outperforms everything that’s come before it, delivering superior results for golf courses, sports fields, and turf farms.

Why NexaBlades?

Designed exclusively for Trimax rotary mowers, the NexaBlade is an elite blade engineered to

provide optimal performance come rain or shine.

With perfectly relative angles and tailored geometry, the NexaBlades have proven to outperform the industry leading Trimax LazerBladez.

Testing Results

The NexaBlade has undergone extensive testing, excelling in six key areas. Below are the results compared to the Trimax LazerBladez.

TESTED AND PROVEN TO:

Improve clipping and spread by 70%

• Reduce clumping by 51%

• Improve the cleanliness of cut by 14%

• Use 5% less PTO power

• Increase resistance to erosive wear by 50% Reduce aerodynamic noise by 15%

What Do Customers Say?

Ashley Craggs, owner of Knotty Hill Golf Center, has been using

the Nexablades on his Trimax X-WAM mowers to cut 45 fairways three times a week.

“The NexaBlades have been fantastic. I have been using them for a year and have found the cut quality is far superior compared to the LazerBladez.

The NexaBlade’s curved shape helps glade through the grass, reducing debris build-up, which keeps the blades nice and clean. This produces finer grass clippings which evenly spread out the back of the machine, leaving behind a better playing surface. In dewy and damp conditions, the NexaBlades don’t clump and leave excess grass debris. This allows us to keep cutting whereas before our machines would be parked up. We have also noticed a fuel saving with the new blades, they’re approximately

25% more economical.

As the NexaBlades were so successful last season, we will be changing all our Trimax mowers to the new blades as we are so pleased with their results and performance”.

The price difference wasn’t significant compared to the Lazerbladez, so we bought a set - and we haven’t looked back since! “

After hearing about the NexaBlades on social media, Rhys McDonagh, Head Greenkeeper at Parc Golf Club decided to try a set on his Trimax Snake. The

results exceeded expectations.

We use the NexaBlades more in the summer months when everything is dry and a little bit shorter. Nothing can beat them. The grass dispersion, which was always good with the Lazerbladez is even better with the NexaBlades. There is no build-up of grass underneath the decks whatsoever. They provide a much better cut and finish and perform really well even in dewy conditions. The blade length also seems longer than the Lazerbladez and more blade equals more cut!

In summary, to anyone considering the NexaBlades I would say they are worth it. From the cut quality to grass dispersion, they just seem so much better!”

To learn more about NexaBlades, or arrange a demonstration visit the Trimax website or call 01933 652235.

Suståne delivers more than three decades of consistent quality at Came Down Golf Club

As the old saying goes ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!’. That’s certainly the motto for Came Down Golf Club in Dorchester, who have been using a nutritional programme from Suståne on their greens for over 30 years and explain that it continues to give them controlled growth, outstanding colour and enhanced plant health year after year.

Established in 1896, Came Down is a chalk-downland course nestled in the Dorset countryside which has strong historical links with some of golf’s most important institutions including The R&A, The Ryder Cup and The Open. While James Lockwood has been at the venue for 18 years, and Head Greenkeeper for the last three, he admits that the club’s relationship with Suståne goes much further back. “We think Suståne has been used here for roughly 35 years,

making us one of the first clubs in the UK to use their products!”

James’ current programme, constructed in conjunction with Suståne’s Russell Riley and local distributors Agrovista, includes Suståne 10-1-4 as a spring starter, 5-2-10+Fe applied at lower rates and regular intervals throughout the summer and 5-2-4 to keep the greens ticking over in winter. “This is the tried and tested combination which works perfectly for us” he says.

“Firstly it’s great that it’s all organic. The club are keen to utilise more sustainable solutions and this programme, in conjunction with some of our cultural practices, has helped us to pretty much eliminate the use of fungicides. Secondly we like the control it gives us – no massive flushes of growth, just a steady, healthy growth pattern that leaves the greens looking immaculate

and playing well year-round.”

James adds, “We have a couple of greens in shaded spots that have previously struggled with Fusarium. With a bit of trial and error, we’ve found that upping the rate of Suståne 5-2-10 through the back end of the summer, and 5-2-4 in the winter has helped us to limit the impact on these specific areas. It’s becoming increasingly important that we all try and resolve these issues using science and clever microbiology rather than relying on chemicals.”

“Another thing we like is that the granules are nice and fine which means we can apply it exactly when we need to without risking any interruption to play.” He concludes, “It’s testament to the continual quality and results that we rarely have to stray away from the programme that has been so pivotal to things here at Came Down for so long.”

The Breakers of Palm Beach

In 2024, The Breakers of Palm Beach unveiled a renovated racquet facility, reaffirming their commitment to enhancing customer satisfaction and ecological sustainability.

A key feature of the $12million updated racquet facilities is the addition of four advanced tennis courts, developed using Capillary Hydroponic technology. This system improves playing surfaces while supporting environmental initiatives.

Mark Reid, Director of Golf & Grounds Maintenance, has actively engaged in the implementation of this technology, highlighting its ecological benefits and significant water savings. This system is managed via an app, with monitoring conducted by his team, leading to impressive results alongside the city’s water and integrated fertigation systems.

The unique root zone design, featuring a coarser sand base topped with finer sand, has proven effective for the Platinum Paspalum sprigs during establishment. Mark is extremely enthusiastic about the system’s potential and has hands on involvement in its operation and management and says he is excited that the water savings of up to 85% especially for areas in water-scarce regions.

The Breakers also boasts 36 holes of championship golf and an academy. The Capillary Bunker lining has improved playability and reduced maintenance hours, demonstrating a strong return on investment.

The integration of Capillary Hydroponics technology not only enhances tennis facilities but also sets a standard for eco-conscious sports management, aligning with the club’s sustainability goals. The vibrant Paspalum grass courts have quickly become favourites among members, providing an exceptional playing experience.

Mark envisions broader applications for this technology across the golf courses, which require significant maintenance. The resort is also developing

educational programs to help other clubs adopt similar practices, amplifying their environmental impact.

Additionally, The Breakers invests in local conservation projects to preserve the area’s natural beauty, enriching the guest experience and fostering a connection with the environment. Each year, The Breakers strengthens its position as a leader in luxury and sustainability, with unwavering dedication to innovation and responsible hospitality.

Terrain Aeration injects polymer

While it may be wet, water everywhere at the moment we will soon be heading into the summer months. That’s when the problems begin for turf and trees. Increasingly, year on year, we are seeing the effects of global warming across our landscape as droughts persist. Sports pitches, golf courses, trees in parks, amenity areas right through to lawns in private gardens will all suffer from the lack of rainfall. Ground becomes hard and compacted to considerable depth and when the rains do come, this often leads to standing surface water and waterlogging.

Suffolk-based Terrain Aeration has specialised in one-metre deep soil aeration to relieve compaction, panning, and waterlogging nationally for over thirty years. While that takes care of the drainage and aeration when it’s very wet there remains the opposite problem of grass and tree roots not getting enough water in periods of drought. It’s a problem addressed by the

same machine, Terrain Aeration’s Terralift system, that aerates the soil at depth by releasing compressed air via its one-metre depth probe. As that fragments the soil to create fissures and cracks to allow drainage and aeration, the probe can also inject water-storing polymer. Once in place, the polymer will expand one-hundred fold with rainwater or irrigation water which it stores for the turf or tree roots to take up as needed. It’s a oneway system, so the polymer does not take water from the roots.

In this way, we will be able to make better use of what water we have and it’s a very long-term process as the polymer takes a long time to degrade. Spreading the polymer on the surface is not practical, as when it rains it turns into a gel, making the area dangerous to walk and play on. Injecting it into the ground using the Terralift machine offers the best, most beneficial, and wholly cost-effective method, says the company. Terrain Aeration is

the only operator of the Terralift in the UK and the treatment has proven itself since 1985. There are different versions of the machine to treat large open spaces such as sports grounds, golf courses, and avenues of trees to narrow accesses onto bowling greens and gardens. Anywhere from airports to zoos.

Terrain Aeration

www.terrainaeration.co.uk

Tel: 01449 673783

THE BEFORE AND AFTER OF ONE METRE DEEP AERATION

COMPACTION AND WATERLOGGING STOP PLAY. DOWNTIME COSTS MONEY.

Terrain Aeration’s long-term treatment reaches one metre deep where compressed air blasts the compaction. The soil is opened up for good drainage and a healthy sward with minimum disruption. We have been successfully deep aerating sports turf, bowling greens, golf courses, parks, racecourses, trees and gardens for over thirty years.

GKB Deep Tine Aerator receives glowing review from N&E Grounds Maintenance

Ask Nigel Willis of N&E Grounds Maintenance what he thinks of their Deep Tine Aerator (DTA) from GKB Machines and he may well tell you it’s the best machine he’s ever purchased! It’s certainly been put through its paces since its delivery in May 2024 as the company ramps up aeration work on a variety of fine turf and winter sports surfaces. In those few months, the DTA 210 has cemented its status as one of the strongest, quickest and most reliable maintenance machines on his fleet.

Located on the outskirts of Belfast, N&E Grounds Maintenance have been conducting the full range of nutritional and mechanical maintenance services for customers spanning both natural and artificial turf for the last 22 years. It was on his annual trip to SALTEX in 2023 that the DTA first caught Nigel’s

eye. “My aerator at the time was giving me a lot of bother so I was on the look out for alternatives. I was immediately impressed with the robustness of the GKB DTA and Tom Shinkins put me in touch with their dealer for Northern Ireland, Laird Grass Machinery.”

“I didn’t even feel the need to have a demonstration of it, I just asked them to order me one and the rest is history!” he exclaims.

The GKB Deep Tine Aerator does exactly as the name suggests, tackling compaction down to depths of 400mm (16”). Available in working widths from 1.2m up to 2.6m, there’s a model in the range to suit all types of natural turf surface.

“We opted for the 2.1m model which suits the variety of facilities we visit, and it’s already been well utilised

on football and rugby pitches as well as work on several golf courses.” Nigel continues, “It does a fantastic job and is much faster and smoother than our previous machine. It’s easy to hook up to the tractor, simple to use and the daily checks are quick with very few grease points. The hydraulic depth control is another feature I really like giving us easy and accurate control over the job at hand.”

“As we move through the winter months, the DTA will be out near enough every other day as demand for aeration work continues to increase to cope with the increased rainfall.” He adds, “I’ve been so impressed with the machine I felt compelled at SALTEX 2024 to go back to the GKB stand just to tell Tom and the team that it’s honestly been one of the best purchases I’ve ever made!”

ALS Contracts enjoy enhanced efficiency with trio of machines from Redexim

As part of a modernisation of their machinery fleet, ALS Contracts have invested in three Redexim machines which are delivering newfound efficiency and user friendliness to the task of aeration and secondary drainage. Delivered by Charlies Ag & Turf Ltd over the course of 2024, two Redexim Verti-Core’s and a new Vibra-Sandmaster are set to boost productivity and profitability for the sports turf contractors according to Operations Manager Anthony Shingler.

Established over 35 years ago, ALS Contracts offer the full range of maintenance services for all types of sports turf. While the work schedule may rotate between fine turf renovations in the spring and autumn, and work on winter sports pitches in the summer months, one of the consistent requirements is the demand for effective, regular aeration. “Hollow coring has long been ‘core’ to our offering” explains

Anthony, who has been with the company for the last twenty-five years. “With demand high, we recognised the time was right to look for something that would increase efficiency, boost productivity and reduce costly downtime.”

The solution was two Verti-Core III 2100’s from Redexim. “We took delivery of these six months ago and the whole team have been incredibly impressed. At 2.1m, they’re slightly wider than our previous machines and work quicker, yet the action is smooth and gentle resulting in less wear on the tines. Since they arrived, we’ve used them for all of our autumn work on golf fairways and haven’t had to put a spanner on them – they’ve not missed a beat.”

The Redexim Verti-Core III offers a high work rate to bring quick compaction relief and thatch management to golf and sports turf, with minimal surface disruption. With a range

of tine options, the robust build quality is matched by equally well-designed operator controls for ease of depth adjustment.

“The team are no strangers to the Vibra-Sandmaster, having used the predecessor model on jobs around the country for the last 16 years” Anthony explains. “We were, however, really pleased to discover that while the principle of the machine remained, it has all been thoroughly modernised not only enhancing output but making it more user friendly for the operator.”

He continues, “Having the right machinery with excellent backup support has been critical to ALS’s success over the years, and in Charlies Ag & Turf Ltd we have a dealer who will always go out of their way to keep kit rolling in whatever way possible. By making the right investment in equipment, we can reduce the amount of downtime we experience which is not only better for the team on the job and our customers but ultimately improves how profitable we can be.”

RM-2 RAINMAKER

INTERNET BASED 2 WIRE DECODER SYSTEM

IRRIGATION CONTROLLER

Market Sectors

• Agriculture Irrigation

• Landscape Watering

• Golf Irrigation

Overview

Benefits

• Can retrofit to legacy Tonick Decoders.

• Remote Control using PC, Smartphones and Tablets over GPRS, 4G, WiFi.

• No app needed, any browser. Web pages in the controller.

• 127 to 508 decoder stations.

• TW/NG-1 decoders programmed and tested using a free App (tamper protected)

• Can sense correct water flow in a valve without needing a flow meter.

• Low cost sensor decoders

The RM-2 Rainmaker irrigation controller provides a solution for medium to large scale irrigation applications. Providing remote connectivity, the RM-2 is versatile, and is very competitively priced, with many extra features the ‘well-known names’ do not have. (some patented)

The RM-2 comes with both an Ethernet and an integrated 4G modem providing remote access via a smart phone, tablet, PC or centralised monitoring system. The unit is configured using its own web interface, enabling the user to setup watering stations and program times.

RM-2 RAINMAKER

INTERNET

BASED 2 WIRE DECODER SYSTEM IRRIGATION CONTROLLER

Features

• Retrofit to legacy Tonick TW/2W decoders

• Many extra features with next generation TW/NG decoders

◦ Decoders programmed and tested using a free NFC app on an Android phone (tamper protection)

◦ Valve can be tested using the App

◦ Confirmation of water flow through the valve

◦ Geo location and installation notes held in the decoder, retrieved by RM-2

• Low cost Flow, Pressure and Moisture Monitoring

Web Page Configuration

The RM-2 has an integrated web server allowing users to operate and configure the RM-2 using a standard web browser. This means it does need not to rely on a 3rd party server, App or proprietary network software.

The web interface will display historic alarms and the current the status of each watering station. The web interface allows the user to test individual or groups of stations by using the manual override feature.

Tonick Decoders

• Next Generation TW/NG-1 family.

• TW/2W Legacy decoders With 1, 2, 3 and 4 outputs.

• Wide variety of TW/NG sensor decoders.

• 5-year warranty, including lightning damage.

Communication Interfaces

• Ethernet, 4G & GPRS, Wifi. Protocols Supported

• Modbus TCP & RTU, DNP 3.0, Open VPN, SMS.

TWL-Irrigation & Underhill Wilsonwells Croft Crimond Fraserburgh Aberdeenshire AB43 8YH

01346 531193

sales@twl-irrigation.com www.twl-irrigation.com

ISEKI UK & Ireland Proud to be Part of Watcombe Wanderers U14s Girls Journey

Seventeen months ago, a new under-14 girls’ football team was started in South Devon for girls’ who were unhappy at their current clubs. Fast forward a season and a half, and Watcombe Wanderers have won promotion in their first season and now have two teams whose kits are proudly sponsored by ISEKI UK and Ireland.

In September 2023, team manager Martin Campbell, a fully licenced coach, was approached to start the team, and during the recruitment process, he received a message from ISEKI Vehicle Sales Manager Phil Catley about his daughter, Maddie.

After starting the season late due to not having enough players, Maddie and the other girls quickly formed a formidable team, eventually finishing second on the last day of the season to claim promotion to Division Two.

With the football side of the team performing beyond expectations, Martin wanted to build the team’s identity with new kits and hoodies before they started their second season. To do this, he sent a message to the parents, and Phil replied.

“They were playing like footballers, so we wanted them to look like footballers,” Martin said. “It can seem like a small thing, but before I joined the ambulance service I was in the service industry for 25 years in sales. Every time you put on a new suit, you feel like someone;

you feel like something, and that’s what I wanted for the girls with their own kit.

“Like any grassroots club, we rely on volunteers and parents to drive the club, and when it came to kit sponsorship, we asked the parents, and Phil came forward and said I might be able to help.

“Like anything, people come forward with good intentions, but we all sat here thinking, ‘Why is a big national company going to be interested in a little backstreet girls’ football team on the outskirts of Newton Abbott.’

“But the response from ISEKI was positive, and they sponsored two kits and hoodies for the girls, and I have to say they look outstanding.

Without the sponsorship from ISEKI, the girls wouldn’t be able to play football with a nice kit on their backs and be proud of

them. They wear the hoodies when they go to school or when they’re walking down the street with their mum and dad. So, what might seem like a small thing has made a significant difference to our team.

We are currently placed second in the second division and are chasing promotion to the first division, which will be a massive achievement for a new team to go from third division to first division in two years.”

“Women’s football is enjoying massive growth these days, so to be able to support an up-and-coming grassroots team is something to be very proud of especially with the amount of work we do with the GMA’s Pitch Advisory Service in advising on the supply of machinery to local sports clubs” said Alan Prickett Sales Director of ISEKI Uk & Ireland.

Watcombe wanderers U14 Girls football team based in Newton Abbot Devon.

SUPERIOR FINISH EVERYTIME

The ISEKI SF range of powerful 22.5-49hp diesel engine mowers enable you to mow your grass whatever the weather keeping the same pristine finish everytime. With a variety of rotary or Muthing flail decks to choose from, the ISEKI SF range really is the ultimate mowing machine.

Available as cut and drop with a useful toolbox on the back, or cut and collect, with a turbine driven collection system direct from the deck to the large hopper, available up to 1300L. Designed and manufactured in Japan for quality that’s built to last.

Contact your local dealer to book a demo on your premises today!

A Sustainable Solution: Robotic Mowers

mission-Free Turf Care for Groundskeepers and Sports Turf Professionals

As sustainability becomes a key priority for sports grounds, and large turf areas, groundskeepers are seeking efficient, cost-effective ways to maintain high-quality playing surfaces while reducing their carbon footprint. Robotic mowers provide an innovative solution, combining cutting-edge technology with zero emissions for environmentally responsible turf care. For example, Kress RTKn robotic mowers lead the way in this evolution, offering antenna-free, high-precision mowing with reliable performance tailored for sports turf management.

Meeting the Challenges of Sports Turf Maintenance

Maintaining elite turf requires precision, consistency, and the ability to adapt to seasonal challenges. Early in the growing season, when traditional equipment risks damaging wet surfaces, robotic mowers excel. Their lightweight design minimises turf compaction, allowing them to operate in wet conditions without damaging the pitch and grounds. With the ability to start mowing before the sun rises, they ensure a

consistently maintained surface, even during peak periods.

Maximising Workforce Efficiency

With ongoing staffing shortages in the turf management industry, robotic mowers help grounds teams focus on more critical tasks rather than dedicating valuable hours to routine mowing. A fleet of three robotic mowers costs roughly the same as the annual minimum wage for a single employee, yet they can operate over 20 hours a day, seven days a week, covering expansive areas with ease. This allows grounds crews to allocate their time to more skilled and essential maintenance work, improving overall efficiency.

Precision Cutting for Optimal Playing Surfaces

Consistent grass height and quality are vital for professional playing conditions. Robotic mowers provide autonomous precision, delivering an even cut every time. Operating quietly and emissionfree, they present a sustainable alternative to petrol-powered mowers. For large sports venues and training grounds looking to reduce their environmental impact, robotic mowers such as Kress RTKn offer a practical solution.

Their advanced RTKn technology enables pinpoint accuracy without the need for unsightly antennas, ensuring a clean, professional finish across every turf area.

Quiet and Safe Operation for Uninterrupted Play

One of the standout benefits of robotic mowers is their nearsilent operation. Grounds teams can schedule mowing at any time without disrupting players, guests and the surrounding areas. Additionally, robotic mowers help improve safety by reducing staff exposure to hazards such as HAVS caused by prolonged vibration, toxic fuel emissions, and repetitive strain injuries.

The Future of Sustainable Turf Management

Investing in robotic mowing technology delivers long-term operational savings while aligning with sustainability goals. For groundskeepers and sports turf professionals dedicated to maintaining premium playing conditions with minimal environmental impact, robotic mowers—such as the Kress RTKn models—offer a forwardthinking approach to turf care.

Unmanned mowing for sustainable groundskeeping.

The Kress RTKn robot mowers revolutionise grounds maintenance by covering larger areas with precision. Operating autonomously in parallel lines, they efficiently move from area to another. Their sleek design and no need for on-site aerials ensures the aesthetics of the grounds are preserved, and with zero emissions, Kress mowers are the best choice for sustainable groundskeeping.

Speak to your local grounds maintenance machinery dealer today to learn more.

Etesia Hydro 100 is the Perfect Solution for The Retreats Group

The Retreats Group, which encompasses three of the leading luxury hotels in Wales—Twr y Felin Hotel, Roch Castle, and Penrhiw Priory—has always been dedicated to maintaining immaculate grounds that reflect the beauty of its locations.

For Ollie Davies, the groundskeeper and supervisor for The Retreats Group, maintaining these stunning landscapes has become significantly easier since the purchase of a Etesia Hydro 100 ride-on mower.

“The properties are undulating and steep in places,” says Ollie. “My brother used to help me look after the grounds, and when he left, we decided that instead of employing someone else full-time, we would

invest in one of these machines and see how it would benefit me.”

Before the Hydro 100, Ollie managed the extensive lawns using pedestrian mowers—a task that was both timeconsuming and physically demanding. “Prior to the Etesia machine, I would cut them all with a pedestrian mower. It was a lot of hard work. This Etesia saves so much time and money. It is a great bit of kit.”

The Etesia Hydro 100 III ride-on mower is designed for professional users who require top-quality mowing and collection performance in all weather conditions. Powered by an 18 HP twin-cylinder Kawasaki engine, it features a modern hydraulic drive transmission with differential

lock, a large 500-litre grass box, and a cutting deck with rear central ejection for efficient grass collection.

Ollie initially considered the Etesia Buffalo ride-on mower, having seen impressive footage of its performance on social media. However, after careful evaluation, he realised that the Buffalo was too large for the more intricate formal gardens within the properties. “We wanted to get a demo of a Buffalo because it looks great, but we figured out it was a bit too big for the formal gardens. We wouldn’t have got it around some of the benches and flower beds.”

For further information, please contact Etesia UK on 01295 680120 or visit www.etesia.co.uk

Premier John Deere dealership selling agricultural, construction, professional turf, and garden machinery from 7 depots

Industry leaders in technology and aftersales service

Established as a family business in 1976, Farol today has a team of over over 350 staff whilst still remaining 100% family owned.

The World’s LARGEST Electric Zero Turn Mower

The industry’s largest electric zero-turn mower, the EVO 96 is the first wide area electric mower to feature a massive 96” mulching rear discharge deck with electronic folding wings that reduce the mower’s width to 72.5” for easy transport. With a 44kWh powerhouse battery that mows continuously for up to 8 hours and can recharge in as little as 9.5 hours* the EVO 96 is unmatched.

What makes Mean Green different? They invented AllDay-Power and are 100% focused on electric mowing and only Mean Green has over a decade of real-world PROVEN results!

Powered by the Mean Green Lithium Energy Battery with the patented ultra-low, centralized centre of gravity battery location aids stability on slopes up to 20 degrees.

Cutting heights are from 1.5” up to 5” and adjusted by the Interactive 4” touch screen display with a fully adjustable electric lift floating deck with the SmartDeck rapid height lift system with foot pedal operation, anti-scalp wheels and the Hi/Low blade speed control allows the HD blade motor speed to be slowed down when cutting short grass. The Patented blade monitoring system is standard for optimal cut quality and efficiency.

The EVO-96 has a lightweight aluminium chassis and cutting deck and only weighs 907kg making it ideal to cut on soft or wet ground and to be carried on most 3,500kg beavertail vehicles legally.

The Patented Heavy-Duty Impulse Drive System™ (IDS) provides industry leading performance, reliability and providing long life expectancy.

Mean Green invented the world’s first commercial grade, electric, zero-turn mower that mows all-day, and today, their full range of electric commercial mowers offers you the power and versatility you need for your large or small grassed areas.

The multi-function light system with dedicated controller for headlights, taillights, and road beacon and high back suspension seat are standard on the EVO-96 and a front mounted blower and Jack lift kit are available as extras.

Warranty on the batteries, Impulse Drive System (IDS), Electrics (Except Blade Motors) and frame is 5 years or 1,500 hours total usage (whichever comes first) from date of delivery. The warranty on the Blade Motors is 2 years or 600 hours total usage (whichever comes first) from date of delivery.

The Avant 225 is the Perfect Workhorse

or Jeff Clark, maintaining his acre-and-a-half property in rural North Wales has become significantly easier thanks to the Avant 225 compact loader.

Jeff, who has some woodland, and a main field to maintain, has found the perfect solution in this versatile machine.

Jeff has extensive experience with various types of equipment, often testing new machinery for manufacturers. Initially, he sought a ride-on mower but soon realised he needed something more versatile. “I went to Clwyd Agricultural looking for a flail mower to attach to my ride-on, but I saw the Avant and thought it looked interesting,” Jeff says. After some consideration and a test drive, Jeff traded his ride-on mower for the Avant 225, along with various attachments for it.

“I needed a machine that could mow, tow a trailer, and help me move things around the garden,” Jeff explains. “I’m 76, not getting any younger, and not as strong as I used to be. The Avant seemed to

be the perfect machine to help me. It’s invaluable and well worth the money we invested. The bucket on the front is large and versatile; you can even mix cement in it, which I’ve found very useful.”

One of the standout features for Jeff is the quick-release coupling for changing attachments. “The changeover of attachments is very quick. A quick flick of a lever and there’s no effort involved,” he says.

The Avant 225’s versatility shines through in various tasks. “I’ve planted apple trees with the mini digger attachment. Rather than spending hours digging a hole, it’s done in five minutes,” Jeff explains. “The 1500 out-front mower attachment does an extremely good job, and the adjustable height of cut is perfect for the different areas we have here.”

Jeff also utilised the Avant 225 for a significant project on his driveway. “The front drive was covered in pebbles, and I didn’t want to lose them when I had it tarmacked. The Avant picked up 8 tonnes of pebbles, which I’ve since used around raised

beds and paths. The machine has probably paid for itself already.”

For Jeff, the best feature of the Avant 225 is its versatility. “It does everything I want – it carries weights, pulls the trailer, and carries most things in the bucket up and down the garden. I even use it to pull trees from the woodland area with a rope. It’s a muscle saver and works really well. I don’t think I could do without it.”

“The joystick is easy to use, and the seat warmer is fantastic in the winter,” he adds.

The Avant 225’s impressive capabilities include a 1.4m lift height, 350kg lift capacity, 10 km/h speed, and 42 L/min auxiliary hydraulics. Easy to transport with a car trailer, it’s a powerful and versatile compact loader despite its small size. The articulated design and

hydraulic 4x4 transmission are similar to larger Avant models, ensuring efficient operation with excellent visibility and easy-to-use controls.

As well as being impressed with the machine Jeff praised Clwyd Agricultural, the local dealer, for their excellent service and support. “They are lovely people, easy to deal with, and very helpful,” he notes.

Overall, the Avant 225 compact loader has proven to be the ideal workhorse for Jeff Clark, providing the versatility and efficiency needed to maintain his land with ease.

For more information, please visit www.avant.co.uk

New year, new higher horsepower petrol woodchippers from GreenMech

reenMech’s ongoing commitment to product enhancement has seen an exciting upgrade on two popular petrol models. From 20th January 2025, production of the EVO 165P Sub-750 and Arborist 150P will feature a new Briggs and Stratton Vanguard EFI 40HP engine, delivering even greater power, productivity and efficiency.

Originally launched to meet the requirements of modern arborists and landscapers looking for powerful bite, torque and throughput in a sub-750kg package, the EVO165P Sub-750 has gone on to cement its position as one of the most capable woodchippers in the 6” category. The key features of the series including wide infeed chute, twin horizontal rollers, all steel bonnet and heavy-duty flywheel are now combined with a higher horsepower engine, taking proven performance to new heights.

The Arborist 150P is already the top selling chipper in Europe in its class, but by installing a high-output 40hp petrol engine, GreenMech can now offer close to similar performance to the diesel-engined Arborist 150D, but at a lower cost.

Together with delivering close to 8% more processing power for brash and woody waste,

the newly upgraded models also feature a yellow idle/ run button to quickly and easily increase or decrease throttle power to operating speed. The simplicity of button operation and electronic throttle now aligns with GreenMech’s diesel offerings, facilitating the chippers to go from idle to full power with one touch. They also feature a second hour meter, mounted directly to the engine, and an upgraded ignition barrel.

As standard, all models in the EVO and Arborist ranges feature GreenMech’s unique disc blade chipping system.

In operation, only 30% of the blade’s circumference comes into contact with the waste material, reducing the blades vulnerability to contaminant damage and enabling the blade to be turned to a new sharp section when edges get worn. This equates to 600% more blade life and significantly more hours of chipping before the need to re-sharpen.

The new EVO 165P Sub-750 and Arborist 150P are also backed-up by GreenMech’s no-quibble, three-year parts and labour warranty. For more information visit www.greenmech.co.uk

Eco Clipper: Advanced Mowing Solutions for Large Turf Areas

The Eco Clipper mowing system is specifically designed for maintaining large turf areas, offering innovative technology that delivers a consistent, high-quality cut. Whether the grass is dry or damp, Eco Clipper’s fastspinning blades and smooth deck ensure efficient grass lifting and even distribution, with no clumps left behind.

For sports field managers and landscapers, this means flexible mowing schedules, even under challenging conditions. The system follows ground contours closely, minimizing soil compaction and promoting healthier root growth. Its quiet, energy-efficient electric drive also makes Eco Clipper ideal for noise-sensitive areas. With models like the RM343, FM343, and FM4 Sport, Eco Clipper provides tailored solutions that improve mowing quality, increase efficiency, and reduce maintenance costs, ensuring sustainable and cost-effective turf management. www.ecoclipper.com

Check out our most compact line of electric largearea mowers the front or rear mounted Eco Clipper, with a 343 cm mowing width for compact tractors.

Groundsman Turf Aerators & Sod Cutters

Groundsman Industries Ltd

Since 1990, Groundsman Industries have been developing their unique range of grass maintenance machines and accessories for maximum performance and durability.

Turf Sod Cutters

Groundsman Two and Four-wheel Drive Turf Sod Cutters with large diameter ground-drive wheels deliver effortless cutting and excellent traction in all conditions. The counter-balanced flywheel crank and central connecting rod blade-drive minimise vibration levels and maximise performance and durability. The rear axle blade position in the four wheel drive machines enable them to cut wafer thin very accurately even on rolling terrane as well accommodating Trench, De-compaction and Mole-drain Blades to cut down to 15cm deep. Sod Blades 30cm to 60cm wide cut 1cm to 7.5cm thick sod in single or multi strips and Serrated Blades cut fibre reinforced grass, scrub or heather. A Guillotine attachment can be fitted on the TMC48 model to measure and chop the sod into lengths for turf nurseries and sod farms.

Turf Aerators

Two Tractor Mounting and Three Pedestrian models of Groundsman Aerators are available from 45cm to 180cm working widths. All use Groundsman’s proven rugged Elliptical Plunge Action sealed bearing mechanism which move the tines proportionally horizontally as well vertical plunge for aeration down to 15cm deep with minimal surface disruption. Quickchange Tine Holders are available to switch between Solid, Hollow and Chisel Tines fitted in Twin, Triple, Quad or Quint Holders plus Cluster Tine Heads for dense pattern aeration, thatch removal and over-seeding.

Core Collectors

The Flexblade Collector attachment is available from 0.8mtr to 2.3mtr widths to fit many makes of aerators as well as Groundsman to Core and Collect in one pass. Three Point Linkage Collectors Follow-up Collection of Cores or Linear Aeration Soil. This incredibly efficient low maintenance implement follows the contours of Greens scooping the aeration soil cleanly from the surface powder dry or soaking wet.

Visit www.groundsmanindustries.com

Specialist Grounds Maintenance Vehicles by AKFS

EV Tip & Go Tipping Dropside

Efficient, robust, and ecofriendly, the EV Tip & Go Tipping Dropside is designed to streamline grounds maintenance operations. Available on most manufacturers electric chassis cabs, this vehicle delivers zeroemissions performance without compromising on capability.

With a GVW of up to 4250kg, the EV Tip & Go offers a generous payload capacity, making it ideal for transporting green waste, soil, and bulky landscaping materials. Its hydraulic tipping body ensures quick and effortless unloading, improving efficiency on-site.

Designed for industry use, the vehicle provides easy access and a fully customisable setup, with options including additional tool storage, LED work lighting, and safety strobe lights. Its quiet operation and reduced environmental impact make it an excellent choice for noisesensitive locations such as parks, estates, and urban greenspaces.

Take your grounds maintenance fleet electric - contact Michael Sapsford, our Product Specialist, today at 01246 250022 to explore how the EV Tip & Go can optimise your operations.

Dropside Vehicle

For teams that demand versatility and durability, the AKFS Dropside Vehicle delivers a practical and reliable solution. Designed to handle heavy-duty equipment and materials, it’s an ideal choice for

groundworks, landscaping, and municipal maintenance teams.

Built on a range of leading manufacturer chassis, it features a lightweight yet robust aluminium dropside body that maximises payload capacity while ensuring secure transportation of tools, machinery, and materials.

Each Dropside Vehicle is custom-built to match your exact operational needs. A range

of optional extras - including lockable storage compartments, load restraint systems, tow hitches, safety lighting, and a tail lift for added flexibilityallows you to tailor the vehicle to your working environment.

Ready to upgrade your fleet?

Contact Michael Sapsford, our Product Specialist, on 01246 250022 today and ensure your team is fully equipped for the season ahead.

SCAG / STM Introduce the Jackal

Welcome to the SCAG Jackal: a Stand-On Mini Skid-Steer. This is a new addition to the SCAG range – extending the capability of SCAG products for professional grounds maintenance. The Stand-On format draws on the technology of the highly successful “V-Ride” stand-on mower range. In addition to the lean-on cushion there are side cushions to protect the operator on the sort of terrain these machines will be working on. The control panel is also typical SCAG with clear information, all within easy reach, plus there is joystick control for drive and bucket. The unit is designed to be of use with a wide range of forestry and

clearance attachments which will be available to the customer from our approved source.

The Jackal will be available with various engine options, 7” or 9” track widths and with the following attachments:

Two sizes of bucket: 500kg and 1500kg

• Log grab

• Stump grinder and

• Flat brush sweeper.

The machines are available through the STM dealership network. To find your nearest

Pedestrian

Stand-on Electric

Ride-on

Origin Amenity Solutions Launches Xtend CRF, a Dual-Technology Controlled Release Fertiliser

rigin Amenity Solutions (OAS), a pioneer in innovative turf care solutions, unveiled its new Xtend CRF fertiliser range today at BTME 2025.

Xtend CRF is a unique fertiliser range that combines two advanced fertiliser technologies for a true controlled release of nutrients. This revolutionary range offers superior nutrient efficiency, enhanced environmental sustainability, and consistent turf performance across all seasons.

This is the first range to feature Origin’s innovative ProTect, a temperature-released coating technology that reflects the plant’s requirement for nitrogen. It differs from other products on the market as it is less affected by moisture-primed release, and its flexible structure offers a more consistent delivery of nitrogen and protects the nutrient core.

The Xtend CRF range includes four specialised formulations tailored for different turf requirements:

• Xtend CRF 20-5-10: Ideal for spring and summer applications, providing quick turf response and steady nutrient release.

• Xtend CRF 12-20-12: Designed for seeding or established turf, featuring Crystal Green and Phosphoactive for improved phosphate availability.

• Xtend CRF 15-2-20: Ideal for autumn, promoting strength and density through winter and into spring.

• Xtend CRF 25-0-0: A highnitrogen formulation safe for summer stress periods, offering flexible application rates and strong colour response.

Jamie Lees, Nutrition and Specialities Product Manager at OAS, emphasises the significance of the Xtend CRF range, stating, “Xtend CRF is a fantastic example of developing new and existing technologies into innovative formulations to provide turf managers with market leading products. Our global expertise in CRF has allowed us to launch advanced technologies such as ProTect, which is produced here in the UK, whilst having the benefit of a reduced environmental impact and carbon footprint.”

The Xtend CRF range is available to order now. For more information call 0800 38 7222 or visit www.originamenity.com.

Origin Amenity Solutions Launches

Xtend CRF, a Dual-Technology Controlled Release Fertiliser

The Origin Amenity Solutions (OAS), a leading provider of innovative turf solutions for golf courses, sports settings, and amenity green spaces, has announced the launch of its latest breakthrough in turf nutrition – Xtend CRF. This advanced controlled-release fertiliser range combines two cutting-edge fertiliser technologies to ensure precise nutrient delivery, maximising turf health and performance throughout the seasons.

Revolutionary Nutrient Efficiency and Environmental Sustainability

Xtend CRF is designed to offer superior nutrient efficiency, enhanced environmental sustainability, and consistent turf performance. It stands apart from conventional fertilisers by delivering nutrients in a more controlled manner, improving efficiency and minimising leaching. This ensures that turf managers achieve optimal results while supporting sustainable turf care practices.

At the heart of the Xtend CRF range is ProTect, a proprietary temperature-release coating technology produced within the Origin Group. Unlike other controlled-release technologies that primarily rely on moisture for nutrient release, ProTect is engineered to respond to temperature fluctuations, mirroring the plant’s natural nitrogen demand. This results in a more consistent and predictable

nutrient release, reducing the risk of nutrient loss and improving overall turf resilience.

Jamie Lees, Nutrition and Specialities Product Manager at OAS, highlights the innovation behind Xtend CRF: “Xtend CRF is a fantastic example of developing new and existing technologies into innovative formulations to provide turf managers with market-leading products. Our expertise in controlled-release fertilisers has enabled us to launch advanced technologies such as ProTect, which is produced here in the UK, while also ensuring a reduced environmental impact and carbon footprint.”

Tailored Solutions for Different Turf Requirements

The Xtend CRF range includes four specialised formulations designed to meet varying turf nutrition needs across different seasons and conditions:

Xtend CRF 20-5-10 – Ideal for spring and summer applications, providing a quick turf response and steady nutrient release.

• Xtend CRF 12-20-12 –Formulated for seeding or established turf, incorporating Crystal Green and Phosphoactive for improved phosphate availability and root development.

• Xtend CRF 15-2-20 –Designed for autumn use, promoting turf strength and density throughout winter and into spring.

• Xtend CRF 25-0-0 – A highnitrogen formulation suited for summer stress periods, offering flexible application rates and a strong colour response without excessive growth.

A Commitment to Innovation in Turf Management

Origin Amenity Solutions strives to be at the forefront of sustainable and science-driven advancements in turf care. As a trusted supplier to turf professionals, OAS continually invests in research and development to create highperformance products that align with modern environmental and agronomic best practices. The introduction of the Xtend CRF range reinforces OAS’s dedication to providing solutions that balance turf excellence with environmental responsibility.

The Xtend CRF range is available to order now. For more information, contact Origin Amenity Solutions at 0800 38 7222 or visit www.originamenity.com.

New Xtend CRF

A range of controlled release fertilisers that combine two key technologies, producing a true controlled release of nutrient.

Xtend CRF features OAS’s own ProTect controlled release technology, using temperature primed nutrient release, blended with inhibited nitrogen that slows down the release even further. When formulated with freely available nitrogen, these two technologies combined provide a quick turf response, followed by a consistent release of nutrient over three months.

• Xtend CRF 20-5-10+10CaO+3MgO

• Xtend CRF 12-20-12+3CaO+6MgO

• Xtend CRF 15-2-20+6CaO+2MgO+2Fe

• Xtend CRF 25-0-0+9CaO+2MgO

Orders and enquiries: 0800 138 7222

DSV’s PRO Bent Delivers Exceptional Results at Millbrook Golf Club

illbrook Golf Club’s greens are thriving thanks to the use of DSV’s PRO Bent grass seed, which has aligned perfectly with the greenkeeping team’s ethos of continuous improvement.

Chris Jones, Deputy Head Greenkeeper at Millbrook, reflects on the transformation since incorporating the PRO Bent seed, working closely with Craig Rodwell from Soil Biology Ltd - a DSV distributor, to ensure the best results for the course.

Located in the scenic Bedfordshire countryside, Millbrook Golf Club is a course rich in history and renowned for its beautifully maintained greens. The club, nestled between the village of Millbrook and Woburn Forest, boasts year-round playability due to its elevated position on the Greensand Ridge and its freedraining sandy soil. The course is a mix of heathland and linksstyle features, with indigenous pine and silver birch lining many of the holes, creating a challenging yet enjoyable environment for golfers.

Chris Jones has been with the club for 18 years and shares a deep connection with it. “The majority of the people who work here tend to stay here. We’re always trying to improve and push the course forward. The course is unrecognisable from what it was when I

started; literally, every hole has had some improvement, whether it’s the putting surface, bunkers, or new tees. We’re not just maintaining – we’re here to improve and push it further and further,” he said.

When their previous seed supplier underwent changes, Chris and the team began looking for alternatives. It was then that Craig Rodwell, a consultant from Soil Biology Ltd, introduced them to a range of nutritional products and DSV’s PRO Bent grass seed. From the start, the results were impressive. “By the end of the summer, we noticed remarkable improvements in the greens, including better root systems, healthier plants, and a reduction

in thatch. We even went through the winter virtually disease-free,” Chris explained.

PRO Bent is part of DSV’s EuroGrass range, a collection of high-performing seed mixtures developed to meet the specific needs of golf courses and sports pitches. PRO Bent, made up of 100% Browntop bentgrass, is particularly suited for summer and autumn overseeding, as well as species exchange operations. It offers excellent density, drought tolerance, and is ideal for close mowing—making it perfect for maintaining high-quality greens.

Chris highlighted how they overseeded all 18 greens at Millbrook. “We got very quick

germination—almost 100%—in just six days, even while people were still playing on the course. By the weekend, the greens were already a good putting surface.”

The positive feedback from both members and visitors has been overwhelming. “We’ve had a lot of compliments about the greens not just from members but also from visitors. It’s great to be recognised, especially since there are so many good golf courses around us. The hard work is really paying off,” Chris said.

The results have been so impressive that Millbrook has expanded its use of DSV products beyond the greens, applying them to the tees and fairways as well. “Once we saw

the germination, we quickly realised this was money well spent. The most important thing is getting good seed strike, and that it’s surviving the winters. It’s been progressing each year, and that’s the hardest part with overseeding—getting the cultivars to thrive,” Chris added.

The success at Millbrook has also been bolstered by the guidance and expertise of Craig Rodwell, who has provided invaluable support throughout the process. “Craig has been fantastic. He has a lot of knowledge and is always there to offer advice,” Chris said.

Craig also praised the EuroGrass range for its suitability to Millbrook’s conditions: “DSV has some excellent cultivars that are

healthy and wear tolerant. They’ve really fitted the bill for this type of course.”

Thanks to DSV’s PRO Bent and the ongoing collaboration with Soil Biology, Millbrook Golf Club’s greens are in top condition, demonstrating that continuous improvement and the right products can truly elevate the quality of a golf course.

Chris concludes, “From the results we’ve had, I’d recommend DSV’s PRO Bent to anyone. It’s been a game-changer for us, and we’re excited to see how it continues to improve the course year after year.”

Please visit www.dsv-uk. co.uk for more information.

Compact tractors? It’s Kubota or nothing for Watford Football Club!

hen it comes to tractors, it’s Kubota or nothing for Scott Tingley, Grounds Manager at Watford Football Club. The club’s Kubota STW40 is proof that compact doesn’t have to mean compromise when it comes to providing the reliable power for maintenance operations at Vicarage Road, while a Kubota L2-622 delivers impressive versatility at the training ground. The dependable performance

of the pair is matched by a fleet of four Kubota RTV’s used across both sites.

Scott is into his 9th season at the club and oversees the home of The Hornets with a team of three, and the 27 pitches at Watford’s training ground. “On the Vicarage Road stadium pitch, it’s all about weight – we need something small and compact, with enough horsepower to lift all the various implements we use”

he explains. The solution, for the last seven years, has been a Kubota STW40.

“We look after the tractor well and, in return, it looks after us. It’s small, lightweight and at 40hp can operate our seeder or aerator for example without leaving much of a footprint.” Scott continues, “All of our Kubota equipment is incredibly reliable, we’ve had no issues with this tractor at all.”

At the training ground, the delivery of an L2-622 from dealers George Browns Ltd in October 2022 is delivering even more versatility “We’re yet to find anything we can’t do with this tractor! Together with powering implements, the forks and bucket are invaluable for moving pallets around, managing deliveries or loading topdressing into our spreader. It makes every task quicker and easier.”

“The cruise control feature on the Kubota L2-622 is especially important when we’re aerating at the training ground as, by setting the speed, we get consistency

across all the surfaces” he adds. “It’s also incredibly user-friendly to operate which is important to aid the training and efficiency of some of our newer and younger team members.”

Complementing the pair of compact tractors across the two sites are four RTV’s, including two RTV520’s installed by George Browns at the training ground in July 2023. “Here, especially, the RTV’s are the workhorses of our maintenance operation. Whether its moving equipment from pitch to pitch or transporting clippings, they’re our go-to.

At the stadium we have a Kubota RTV500 which, again, is a people and machinery mover. We also use this to tow our lighting rigs into place after a match which shaves an hour off the job.”

Scott concludes by praising the after-sales support from the Kubota dealer, “On the odd occasion we’ve needed help with our Kubota equipment, George Browns have always been brilliant. With high levels of usage and even higher expectations it’s reassuring to know we can always rely on Kubota to get the job done.”

Global sports pitches leader announces major project in Saudi Arabia

SIS Pitches, the team behind the World Record-breaking Kingdom Arena pitch, has announced it is set to deliver a major project in Saudi Arabia.

SIS Pitches, which produces premium hybrid, synthetic and natural pitches for an array of sports, has announced its partnership with Aramco Stadium in Al-Khobar, Saudi Arabia.

The project reflects the brand’s commitment to delivering highquality sports facilities in the region.

As part of the project, the SIS Pitches team will design and build a hybrid grass football stadium pitch, complete with an SIS Air classic vacuum and ventilation system, and two natural grass training pitches. Works will also include associated irrigation and drainage and pitch accessories. With design development completed to be completed by January 31st, the stadium and training pitches

should be finalized in 2026.

The project will benefit from the proximity of SIS Pitches’ local turf farm in Saudi Arabia, guaranteeing a quick supply of high-quality, locally grown grass. Grass from Saudi farms will be installed specifically for the Aramco Stadium works and is due to be operational from April 2025.

David Ball, Managing Director at SIS Middle East, said: “A year on from the Kingdom Arena, our flagship project for the region, we’re thrilled to be able to announce another major project.

“Demand for high-quality sports surfaces in the region has skyrocketed in recent years. This project will be the perfect opportunity for us to help support Middle Eastern sports and showcase our wide offering – from pitch design and construction to irrigation and ventilation –across a range of disciplines,

including football and cricket.

“We’re looking forward to unveiling our design for the Aramco Stadium very soon.”

SIS Pitches made its first foray into the Middle East in Dubai, UAE, in 2011. After recognizing a growing appetite for high-level professional sports – and the resulting increased need forcutting-edge surfaces – the brand established a dedicated SIS Pitches office in Saudi Arabia in July 2023.

Within weeks of establishing the Saudi Arabia office, the team at SIS Pitches undertook one of the world’s most ambitious sporting infrastructure projects to complete the Kingdom Arena – the world’s first fully indoor hybrid pitch, famously built in just 21 days – in partnership with Sela.

For more information on SIS Pitches, visit sispitches.com/uae/

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“AquaEdge

• Dramatically decrease maintenance costs.

• Stable, sustainable and 100% natural looking water edging solution.

• Faster and lighter construction process, minimising risk and disruption

satisfied EcoBunker customer.