Farms & Farm Machinery Issue 439 July 2024

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For the farmer

Tillage contractor thrilled with Gregoire Besson Discordon

A g-Pride introduces Bomford Turner Flailbot range

New Holland Boomer 25C tractor proving a hit

36 Dieci Agri Max 42.7GD telehandler catering to big needs

39 Kerfab hay fork easing burden on farmer

43 Speed impresses JCB Fastrac 8330 iCON owner

In the spotlight

46 Pigeon pea explored as summer pulse crop

Trends and data

50 Tractor sales drop in May, however TMA’s Gary Northover says a more realistic market picture should appear soon

Opinion

52 WAFarmers CEO Trevor Whittington says walls of legislation need to be removed for agriculture to thrive

Event news

55 Hort Connections technology and trade show wrap

59 FarmFest machinery highlights

Dealer news

67 Case IH unveils new Puma configuration

68 Deere updates AutoPath guidance

69 Croplands distributing RBR Enterprises sprayers

70 Three Rivers Machinery expands

Regular items

4 Editor’s note 64 Calendar of upcoming events 79 List your item for sale!

83 Sprightly unit

In the first of our forklift series we look at cracking and corrosion on older equipment.

83 Forever amber Australia’s Vailo debuts wildlifefriendly amber variant of its LED stadium lighting flagship

Image: Waringa

Welcome

to the latest edition of Farms & Farm Machinery

The past month has been a busy one for the Farms & Farm Machinery team, having attended both Hort Connections in Melbourne and FarmFest in Toowoomba.

I n this edition, we have brought you a wrap of the machinery and technology being displayed at both events, along with a couple of new product releases from FarmFest.

This is not all though – as our next edition will include coverage from a farm tour in Victoria that took place during Hort Connections along with a deep dive into some of the panel sessions held during the conference.

It is always exciting to see an industry come together, particularly one as crucial as horticulture – which is tipped to contribute almost $18 billion in output during 2 024-25.

Our cover story this month focuses on Nutrien Ag Solutions, specifically how one of its subsidiaries is offering plant nutrition products to help crops recover from frost and other stress.

Maximising a farm’s output and efficiency is so often done through machinery innovations, which is the core of what this magazine writes about, however products such as these are also an important part of ensuring a farmer’s hard work leads to success.

At Farms & Farm Machinery, we like to share the stories of Australian farmers who are using the products we write about and learn about the real-world benefits they are experiencing.

Several examples of that exist in this edition.

We speak to a Western Australian tillage contractor who is using a Gregoire Besson Discordon one-pass finisher from Waringa Distribution.

We also profile a South Australian farmer whose travel time between farms has been cut thanks to JCB’s Fastrac 8330 iCON tractor, along with speaking to a Queensland property owner who purchased New Holland’s sub-compact Boomer 25C tractor.

We also share the story of a New South Wales farmer whose hay handling needs have been met thanks to a Kerfab tractor hay fork.

This edition also highlights the Shantui grader range from Cobra Equipment Sales, Dieci’s Agri Max 42.7GD telehandler, an addition to the Bomford Turner range available via Ag-Pride Australia and the broad range of customers using Jetland loading ramps.

There are also multiple ways in which this edition looks at the short and long term futures of Australian agriculture.

ABARES has released its latest outlook and we delve into the key findings, while also showcasing some of the Horizon scholarship recipients who will no doubt become future industry leaders.

Work is being done to explore the viability of pigeon pea as a broadacre summer crop in Australia, and we go into depth about how this has come about and what it could mean.

Happy reading!

Lincoln Bertelli Editor

Image: Scott Donkin / stock.adobe.com

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Top scholars

AgriFutures has named the 19 scholars that will receive a 2024 Horizon Scholarship, which aims to cultivate the next generation of rural leaders

For the 19 recipients of a major agriculture scholarship program, it’s the opportunity to work with some of the leading minds in the industry that’s going to stand out, going forward.

“Selected from across Australia, each scholar demonstrated exceptional drive, commitment, and passion for the future of Australia’s rural industries and communities,” AgriFutures Australia managing director John Harvey says.

“This scholarship program seeks to build

Sasha Gifford would like to work as an agronomist in the horticultural industry

on that, giving scholars the opportunity to grow their skills and networks, and in time, open doors to a successful career.”

Studying agriculture or related majors at university, the winners will participate in a two-year program run by AgriFutures Australia to help them further their learning, grow leadership skills and expand their networks.

Each scholar has been paired with an industry sponsor that aligns with their career aspirations and industry experience.

AgriFutures says this will help scholars network with industry leaders and learn skills relevant to a career in their chose field.

On top of this, each scholar will receive a $10,000 bursary to aid with university and living expenses, attend annual four-day professional development workshops and complete two weeks of industry work placements each year within their sponsor’s industry.

The full list of sponsors for 2024 comprises the Grains Research and Development Corporation, Cotton Research and Development Corporation, Meat and Livestock Australia, Hort Innovation, Marine Bio Products CRC, Australian Eggs, Mt Burdett Foundation, Fisheries Research and Development Corporation and AgriFutures Australia.

Harvey says industry sponsors are integral to the program, with the sponsor and scholar pairing proving scholars with the opportunity to connect to an industry on a deeper level.

“Grains Research and Development Corporation has sponsored 55 scholars since the inception of the Horizon Scholarship,” he says.

“This fantastic commitment to students at a tertiary level fills the talent pipeline for the grains industry.”

Supported by the Mt Burdett Foundation, based in Esperance, Western Australia, 2024 scholar Cleo Noonan says she is incredibly excited to have been awarded the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship.

Studying a Bachelor of Science (Agricultural Science) at Curtin University with minors in Applied Finance and Agricultural Genetics, Noonan says she can’t wait to partake in all the networking opportunities the program will offer.

“I believe the upcoming AgriFutures Horizon Workshop in Wagga Wagga will be an amazing opportunity to meet with like-minded students from all over Australia as well as industry professionals from all facets of agriculture,” she says.

Noonan’s family are long-standing sheep and wheat farmers in the south of Western Australia, however she grew up in the state’s capital Perth – which she says gives her an interesting perspective on both urban and rural life.

“I knew I wanted to take my knack for science and combine it with my passion for agriculture,” she says.

“In the future, I hope to give back to the Western Australian farming community by growing my knowledge and skillset to ensure the continued success of our ag.”

Joshua Bramley, studying a Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronic) and Computer Science at UNSW Sydney, is fascinated by autonomous robots in precision agriculture – including spot sprayers and advanced autosteer systems.

Growing up on a small farm in the Southern Highlands of NSW, Bramley says he sees these emerging technologies as an opportunity for increased productivity as we face growing population.

“Recently I’ve enjoyed blending this love of autonomous systems with the power of cloud computing and technologies to create accessible remote systems,” he says.

“I’m excited to see where new opportunities lie in developing solutions to the challenges people face in normal operations.”

Sasha Gifford’s family are dried fruit producers for Sunraysia, who have been doing it since the end of World War II. They also have had mixed farming enterprises in Victoria’s Wimmera region.

Studying a Bachelor of Agricultural Science at The University of Adelaide, she says that despite her family’s long history in the industry, she didn’t find her passion for horticulture until working in her gap year.

Joshua Bramley hopes to use automation to increase productivity

Images:

Gifford was employed on a large vineyard in southwest NSW that grew a large variety of wine grapes and she was also a field technician for a few small pest trials in vineyards, citrus orchards and almonds.

“After I have completed my degree, I would like to be working in the horticultural industry as an agronomist that assist growers in managing their pest and disease or plant nutrition, as through my studies this is what I have found a particular interest for,” she says.

List of winners

• A ilish King from the University of Sydney (sponsored by AgriFutures Australia)

• A lyssa Seckinger-Crow from the University of Melbourne (sponsored by Fisheries Research and Development Corporation)

• Chloe Frank from Charles Sturt University (sponsored by Meat & Livestock Australia)

• Cleo Noonan from Curtin University (sponsored by Mt Burdett Foundation)

• E dison West from Flinders University

(sponsored by Hort Innovation)

• Eloise Knox from the University of New England (sponsored by Hort Innovation)

• G eorgia Ditchfield from the University of New England (sponsored by Grains Research and Development Corporation)

• Isabelle Duff from UNSW Sydney (sponsored by AgriFutures Australia)

• Jack McKay from Charles Sturt University (sponsored by AgriFutures Australia)

• James Meggitt from the University of Melbourne (sponsored by Fisheries Research and Development Corporation)

• Jamie Vincent from the University of Western Australia (sponsored by Grains Research and Development Corporation)

• Joshua Bramley from UNSW Sydney (sponsored by Meat & Livestock Australia)

• Julian Craven from the Australian National University (sponsored by Cotton Research and Development)

• Lachlan Craig from the University of Melbourne (sponsored by Grains Research and Development)

• Lauren Mcllveen from Charles Sturt University (sponsored by Australian Eggs)

• Maria Costantino from the University of Sydney (sponsored by Grains Research and Development Corporation)

• Nicholas Myers from Charles Sturt University (sponsored by AgriFutures Australia)

• Ruby Fox from the University of Tasmania (sponsored by Marine Bioproducts Cooperative Research Centre)

• Sasha Gifford from the University of Adelaide (sponsored by Hort Innovation).

Antonio Carraro tractors made in Italy since 1910.

Cleo Noonan has grown up around rural and urban life

Increased production

ABARES’ latest agricultural outlook predicts a significant increase in agricultural production for the year ahead, driven by increased livestock value and a record horticultural value

ABARES predicts livestock prices will continue to rise. Image: William/stock.adobe.com

The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) is predicting the value of agricultural production will reach $84 billion for 2024-25, an increase of $2 billion on last year, and a figure which would be the third highest in Australia’s history. Its latest agricultural outlook credits much of this increase to a $1.1 billion rise in livestock production and livestock product values, due to rising slaughter and prices.

Livestock

With a growing global demand and a constrained global supply, ABARES expects livestock prices to continue to rise. Beef and lamb saleyard prices are also forecasted to rise by 18 per cent and 7 per cent respectively.

Given there is growing demand, with a recovery from the lows of 2023-24, livestock production volumes are expected to rise steadily.

ABARES predicts the value of beef and veal production will rise by 1 per cent in 2024–25, and sheep meat production by 2 per cent.

A rise of $100 million in wool production, to a value of $2.9 billion, is being driven by higher expected prices, while milk production is set to fall $400 million, to $5.6 billion, due to lower farmgate milk prices and production.

Livestock and livestock product export volumes are forecast to rise by $470 million to $30.1 billion due to higher domestic production and increased global prices.

Crops

Crop production is forecast to rise significantly – by $730 million– in 2024–25, with ABARES’ report saying that domestic production is increasing the crops’ value, despite falling prices.

Australia’s winter crop production volumes are expected to rise 9 per cent

to 51.3 million tonnes in 2024-25 – due to a positive winter rainfall outlook and expected improvements in production in Queensland, New South Wales and Western Australia.

Should this happen, ABARES says it would be the fifth highest volume ever recorded in Australia and would be 9 per cent above the ten-year average of 47 million tonnes recorded to 2023-24.

ABARES says domestic prices for most crops are set to fall because of decreasing global prices, which are expected to drop due to higher global production and reduced market uncertainty.

However, higher domestic production of wheat, pulses and horticulture is outweighing falling prices, with improved growing conditions in Queensland and New South Wales expected to help increase production of wheat, with ABARES predicting its value to rise $400 million and reach $10.1 billion.

The value of pulses is expected to rise by 28 per cent or about $800 million to be worth $3.5 billion in 2024-25, with ABARES saying chickpea and lentil production values are expected to increase by 190 per cent to $1.1 billion and by 3 per cent to $1.5 billion respectively.

Following the recent Hort Connections expo in Melbourne, horticulture values are forecast to grow by around 3 per cent or $500 million, reaching a record of $17.4 billion.

“Higher production volumes are due to improved growing conditions, higher water availability and lower input costs,” the report says.

The value of canola and cotton however, are expected to fall by $400 million and $300 million respectively due to lower production volumes.

Exports

Agricultural export values are set to fall approximately $2.9 billion to $69 billion

due to lower crop export values, ABARES says. Despite this forecast fall, it is still expected to be the third highest on record.

Lower export volumes and easing of global prices across major commodities is driving crop export values down, with ABARES predicting a decline of $3.3 billion to $38.9 billion in 2024-25.

“The majority of global crop prices are expected to fall following annual declines in 2023–24, as global supply continues to improve,” the report says.

“In particular, global oilseed and grain supply is expected to increase, with improving production conditions in many major global grain and oilseed exporters driving higher world corn and soybean production.”

Although there is an overall decrease in global crop prices, ABARES expects sugar and rice prices to remain above their 10-year averages due to increased global consumption and restricted supply.

Seasonal conditions

ABARES is predicting a wet winter across southern Australia, with above median rainfall likely – except for southern parts of Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania, where below median rainfall is likely.

Having entered its dry season, Northern Australia is expected to receive below median rainfall, however ABARES says northeast Queensland will probably see above median rainfall.

For the rest of Australia, ABARES says there is an equal chance of having above or below median rainfall.

“Across cropping regions, the probability of exceeding median rainfall is between 40 per cent and 60 per cent in the eastern states and South Australia,” the report says.

“Western Australian cropping regions have a higher probability – between 50 and 75 per cent – of receiving above median rainfall.”

Biosecurity budget boost

The NSW government has invested $945.7 million to protect the state’s agricultural industry against biosecurity threats

NSW’s $945.7 million biosecurity protection investment in its 2024-25 state budget includes an additional $13.1 million to build upon the success of the Feral Pig Program.

Since its inception in October 2023, the program has controlled more than 100,000 feral pigs that can cause damage to pastoral land and crops. Feral pigs can also carry diseases that can impact livestock and native animals.

The NSW government says this new funding will help to ensure there is a concerted and ongoing campaign over the next year to reduce pest populations, to benefit farmers and landholders, minimise biosecurity risks to livestock and lower the risk of environmental and ecological damage.

“Strong biosecurity protections are not just about keeping pest and weeds out – it is about protecting the state’s $22 billion agriculture industries and ensuring families across the state have access to the world’s best produce at the world’s best

prices,” NSW agriculture minister Tara Moriarty says.

In addition to state’s Feral Pig Program investment, NSW’s biosecurity program includes investments in responses to potential threats to the state’s agricultural industry – including:

• $ 55.3 million for the eradication of red imported fire ants

• $ 36.2 million to increase the resilience and capacity of beekeepers, and other industries managing Varroa mite

• $25 million to support specialist scientific skills to boost the state’s frontline surveillance and preventative capabilities to defend against biosecurity risks

• $6.2 million to target White Spot disease, supporting prawn fishers, farmers and businesses

• $ 5.8 million to continue implementing the Good Neighbour Program to tackle weed and pest infestations between neighbouring public and private lands.

“We have been busy implementing our comprehensive biosecurity plan, from

Top crop

A new breeding technology has been developed that will lead to the development of disease-resistant crop varieties – delivering higher yields industry to adopt disease-resistant crop varieties faster and easier, resulting in increased profitability and productivity for our growers.”

Scientists from the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) have developed a new crop breeding technology that allows them to pin-point plant defence mechanisms and select resistant combinations against pathogens.

This will result in the development of crop varieties that are resistant to fungal diseases and can produce higher yields, the NSW government says.

“This exciting breakthrough in plant breeding technology highlights our commitment to undertake research and development that maximises outcomes for NSW agriculture,” NSW agriculture minister Tara Moriarty says.

“The new technology will enable

Moriarty has already visited DPI Wagga Wagga Agricultural Institute to see trials taking place that demonstrate the ability of the breeding technology.

DPI scientists are now calling for expressions of interest to commercialise the technology and conduct further research with it being in its final step of patenting in Australia.

Breeding varieties that are disease-resistant are estimated to contribute $2.6 billion per year in protection to Australian wheat crops alone, according to the state government.

The disease-resistant crops will be able to produce higher yields

JETLAND

No manufacturing delays, all ramps listed online are in stock at our warehouse in Mordialloc, Victoria.

We

Radiate and Awaken are plant nutrition products

FIGHTERS Frost

Helping crops recover from frost and other stress events, while promoting healthy root and plant growth, the Radiate and Awaken plant nutrition products are available from Loveland

Agri Products, a subsidiary of Nutrien Ag Solutions

Many farmers’ crops will face stress events, such as frost, through the winter months – which can significantly reduce yields.

According to the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), frost damage is estimated to cause losses of between $120 million and $700 million in Australia each year.

With the Radiate and Awaken products, available through Nutrien Ag Solutions’ subsidiary brand – Loveland Agri Products – farmers can help their crops recover quickly and overcome the setback of frost.

They are just two of a range of of crop nutrition and protection products developed by the company that can be used across a variety of crops and situations.

Radiate

Registered with the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) as a growth promotant, Radiate is a hormone product that aids root and plant growth.

Loveland plant nutrition technical services specialist Ian Leonard says Radiate has proven to grow shoots and roots well.

“Shoots and roots help the crop pick up more nutrients and moisture, so Radiate helps alleviate the stress of an event like frost because there’s more soil to explore,” he says.

“A lot of our competitors make claims

they have a product containing the same chemistry as Radiate but they don’t.

“Radiate is an APVMA registered plant growth regulator, proven to improve plant health by growing additional roots and shoots.”

Awaken

Awaken also assists in crop and plant growth and is a foliar fertiliser product –targeting the leaf surface.

Containing a micronutrient package,

Leonard says this product helps plants create more chlorophyll, which is what gives plants and crops their green colour.

“The darker the shade of green, the more sunlight the crop can attract and therefore will help it to photosynthesise,” he says.

“The micronutrient package in Awaken keeps the plant or crop healthy and very green, so it keeps on photosynthesising and producing the food it needs to grow.”

By using this product, Leonard says crops will be able to produce more reproductive tissue, more grain or more fruit.

Recovering from stress events

Frost is one example of a stress event that can easily damage crops – depending on what stage of growth a crop is at and how much moisture is in the air.

Farmers can apply Radiate to help healthy root growth, which will speed up crop recovery, Leonard says.

“This is because Radiate promotes a healthier root system in crops, enabling a greater volume of soil to be explored, enhancing nutrient and moisture uptake for a faster recover period.”

With Awaken, the crop or plant will be able to produce more chlorophyll, Leonard says, which will enable it to attract more energy from the sun’s light, so it functions at an optimal level.

Radiate and Awaken can be effective when they are applied individually or

Loveland’s Ian Leonard

Wheat crops before the Radiate and Awaken treatment

Wheat crops 17 days after the Radiate and Awaken treatment

together – making them versatile products.

They can also be used to help crops recover from other stress events that don’t involve frost.

Not long ago, Leonard had a situation in South Australia where a grower’s wheat crops were facing residual herbicide. The herbicide was left over from a previous crop because of a lack of rainfall that would usually break the herbicide down.

“The wheat was very weak, and it was bleached,” Leonard says.

“Instead of being dark green, it was a white coloured leaf.”

Leonard says a Nutrien Ag Solutions agronomist recommended to the grower that Radiate and Awaken be used together, and in less than three weeks the crop was thriving again.

“In 17 days, the crop went from a bleached white and yellowy colour, to a vibrant green,” he says.

“It recovered very quickly and didn’t negate any yield.”

In central Queensland, Leonard also encountered a situation where Radiate and

Awaken were employed together to help cotton recover from a lack of sunlight.

This grower had been facing cloudy weather for an extended period, which Leonard says can be a problem for cotton.

“Cotton needs a lot of sunlight to photosynthesise and if it gets cloudy for a while the plant will respond to the lack of photosynthesis by shedding young cotton bolls,” he says.

“By using these products, the sunlight stress was alleviated, and the grower optimised his yield because less fruit was shed, and therefore more cotton bolls were retained.”

Leonard is currently dealing with an inquiry about wheat crops that are facing red legged earth mite damage.

Through ongoing discussions on which product would be more appropriate, Leonard explained that Awaken would be the way to go, because earth mites reduce the crop’s ability to produce chlorophyll and reduce the crop’s photosynthesis ability.

“Awaken will allow the crop to produce more chlorophyll, making the leaves

healthier and producing more energy internally, so it can recover from the earth mite stress faster,” he says.

Through these examples, Awaken and Radiate have shown they can be used to combat a range of stress events, and they can also be applied to a variety of crops.

The Loveland plant nutrition technical services specialist says the products can be used on most commercial crops – from wheat and barley, to canola and pulse crops in the winter, including chickpeas and lentils. In the summer, Leonard says they are often used on cotton crops.

“In the stress events I’ve seen, these products have helped crops recover fast,” he says.

“If Radiate and Awaken weren’t used in these events, the crops may endure greater potential yield loss from biotic and abiotic stresses.”

For more information on Loveland Agri Products’ Radiate and Awaken, visit www.lovelandagriproducts.com.au or www.nutrienagsolutions.com.au

Bale Bull Round

Dragon days

A Charles Darwin University-led project will allow Australian and Chinese researchers to share information and knowledge on agriculture and aquaculture

Charles Darwin University (CDU) has received $240,000 to lead a project between Australia and China, focusing on exchanging knowledge of each region’s agriculture and aquaculture practices.

CDU says the project will look to enhance the quality of Australian seafood a nd introduce new dragon fruit cropping technologies.

The global dragon fruit industry is estimated to be worth $22 billion in 2024, CDU says, while Australia’s tropical aquaculture industry – centred on barramundi and tiger prawns – has a forecast value of $ 800 million in 2024.

Sky eye

An affordable drone-based assessment tool is being developed to help growers and plant breeders maximise the quality of oaten hay and better access international markets

Researchers at the Australian Plant Phenomics Facility at the University of Adelaide are investigating the use of lowcost sensors and cloud-based analysis to measure the quality of oaten hay.

Australia’s export fodder industry has achieved year-on-year growth over the past decade, according to AgriFutures Australia, and with this new tool, growers and plant breeders could secure access to international markets worth millions

Collaborating with China will allow Australian researchers to gain Chinese knowledge and technologies to benefit our dragon fruit crop market, and barramundi and tiger prawn markets.

T he investment received from the National Foundation for Australia-China Relations will allow several Australian researchers to visit China this year and next year, with Chinese researchers also visiting Australia in both 2024 and 2025.

CDU Research Institute for Northern Agriculture’s professor of tropical broadacre cropping systems Stephen Xu s ays the project will introduce Austral-

to the industry.

AgriFutures says more than $500 million of hay was exported in 20202021 and exports are expected to double in the next three years as overseas dairy production increases.

Hay with higher quality (possessing a metabolisable energy of 11 MJ/kg) commands a higher price and helps enhance animal performance and milk production, so maintaining high-quality supply is critical to uphold the industry’s competitiveness.

AgriFutures export fodder program manager Annie Lane says monitoring hay quality is challenging as it can vary across paddocks and farms, and depends on environmental factors, management practices, industry demand and genetics.

“As the value of hay is usually determined on delivery to a mill, growers are making key decisions based on historical outcomes, weather patterns and risk mitigation,” she says.

“This project will enable growers to evaluate the relative value of their hay crops per paddock and make management decisions based on current data.”

D r Reddy Pullanagari is leading the research project at the University of Adelaide, in collaboration with InterGrain – which will run until early 2027.

Pullanagari says the project aims to use suitable optical remote sensors that can

ia’s environmentally friendly, sustainable cropping methods to China.

“ Simultaneously, we will promote collaboration with Chinese researchers on product traceability, which is essential for capitalising on the reputation of Australian premium agricultural products i n export markets,” he says.

More than 70 researchers will be involved in the overall project, who will also look to share expertise in sustainability practices.

T his will address environmental challenges such as greenhouse gas emissions, chemical pollution, animal welfare and food safety, CDU says.

predict hay quality at the breeding plot level and paddock scale. It also aims to develop the best algorithm to categorise hay quality according to the Australian Fodder Industry Association (AFIA) grades.

“Currently, the quality of hay is determined by visual and sensory appearance, which is a highly unreliable and subjective approach, leading to uncertainty in decision-making processes,” he says.

“The project aims to address this issue by testing a combination of state-of-theart optical sensors, including hyperspectral and Light Detection and Ranging ( LiDAR) sensors mounted on drones and field phenotyping instruments, to collect comprehensive information from oaten hay trials in a non-destructive way.”

These technologies have been chosen for their potential to provide near-realtime monitoring of hay quality, Pullanagari says – allowing for timely and i nformed decision-making.

He also says the algorithm can be deployed at different scales, from breeding plots to paddocks, which will allow farmers or agronomists to make adjustments in order to improve yields and productivity.

It is expected the sensor will be able to categorise hay quality into AFIA grades within 24 hours, providing a relative value of individual hay paddocks at a given date.

The collaboration with China will allow for new Australian dragon fruit cropping technologies

The project aims to use remote sensors that can predict the quality of hay. Image: AgriFutures Australia

Crop sensors

Researchers develop drone-fittable crop-health sensor prototype that may deliver farmers extra information on potential pest infestations

Research by an international team of engineers has led to the development of a prototype sensor system with infrared imaging capabilities that can be used for remote crop monitoring.

The compact and lightweight sensor system can be easily fitted to a drone and was developed by engineers at the City University of New York, the University of

The prototype sensor system with infrared imaging capabilities

Melbourne, RMIT University and the ARC Centre of Excellence for Transformative Meta-Optical Systems (TMOS).

RMIT University says the flat-optics technology has the potential to replace traditional optical lens applications for environmental sensing in a range of industries.

R MIT adds this will help farmers pinpoint which crops require irrigation, fertilisation and pest control – instead of taking a one-size fits all approach to spraying, for example.

The sensor system can rapidly switch between edge detection – imaging the outline of an object, such as a fruit – and extracting detailed infrared information, without the need for creating large volumes of data and using bulky external processors

RMIT says the capability to switch to a detailed infrared image is a new development in the field and could allow farmers to collect more information when the remote sensor identifies areas of potential pest infestations.

TMOS chief investigator professor Madhu Bhaskaran and her team at RMIT Melbourne engineered the prototype, which comprises a filter made with a thin layer called vanadium dioxide.

Global voice

Australia’s Fiona Simson is now the World Farmers Organisation vice-president

The appointment of Fiona Simson to a global advocacy role has been described as a win for Australia

Former National Farmers Federation president Fiona Simson has been elected as vice-president of the World Farmers Organisation.

Simson, who stepped down from her NFF role last year, was elected to the global position at the WFO general assembly in Rome last month.

Her appointment, which came after nomination by the NFF, was hailed as a significant win for Australia by current NFF president David Jochinke.

“This elevates the NFF’s voice at the

table, ensuring Australian farmers will be heard in international conversations on global agricultural policy and how food and fibre are produced in Australia,” Jochinke says.

“Issues such as climate change, deforestation, animal welfare and agvet chemicals are influencing the policy agendas across the globe.

“These are all issues of critical concern to Australian farmers and we have to make sure global policymakers and markets understand them in the Australian context.

“Materials such as vanadium dioxide add a fantastic tuning capability to render devices smart,” she says.

“When the temperature of the filter is changed, the vanadium dioxide transforms from an insulating state to a metallic one, which is how the processed image shifts from a filtered outline to an unfiltered infrared image.

“ These materials could go a long way in futuristic flat-optics devices that can replace technologies with traditional lenses for environmental sensing applications – making them ideal for use in drones and satellites, which require low size, weight and power capacity.”

RMIT currently holds a granted US patent and has a pending Australian patent application for its method of producing vanadium dioxide films.

PhD scholar Shaban Sulejman from the University of Melbourne says the design and materials used make the filter suitable for mass-manufacturing.

“It also operates at temperatures compatible with standard manufacturing techniques, making it well-placed to i ntegrate with commercially available systems and therefore move from research to real-world usage rapidly.”

“The WFO’s growing influence with powerful bodies, such as the Food and Agriculture Organisation, World Trade Organisation and the United Nations, heightens the need for Australian representation.”

Simson’s appointment was also praised by Farmers for Climate Action CEO Natalie Collard, who says the group’s 8,200 members are thrilled.

“Fiona Simson has been an effective leader for farmers and for the climate,” Collard says.

“She is valued by the farming community for advocating for Australian agriculture and the climate farmers rely on in a balanced and sensible way.”

The WFO describes its mission as being to “represent the farmers’ voice and advocate on their behalf in all the relevant international processes affecting their present and their future, ranging from the global dialogue on agriculture to nutrition and sustainability.”

It is comprised of six regional constituencies, with Simson having represented Oceania since last year.

Simson will serve as vice-president under Frenchman Arnold Puech D’Alissac, who was re-elected to the president’s role last month.

Image: National Farmers Federation

Specialised service

Cobra Equipment Sales specialises in Shantui equipment, whilst also answering specific machinery inquiries that can be considered a little ‘out of the box’

Travelling in and out of China for nearly 20 years, Cobra Equipment Sales director George Nason has seen his fair share of Chinese-made equipment.

A particular standout over his travels has been the Shantui brand, with Nason crediting its quality and cost effectiveness as an advantage over other Chinese-branded equipment.

Using his connections in China, today his Brisbane-based Cobra Equipment Sales is an authorised dealer and distributor for Shantui equipment – and has been since 2018.

“Shantui initially approached me because they wanted a larger presence in Australia and didn’t have any dealers here,” Nason says.

This was an attractive proposition for his business at the time, as he says Shantui

is the world’s largest manufacturer of bulldozers.

“There’s so many people selling excavators and loaders, but not a lot of bulldozers. I saw an opportunity to push the bulldozer market through Shantui’s machines,” he says.

Originally, the Shantui brand was not that well known in Australia and Nason found it took time to communicate its high-quality standards, but now Nason says the word is out – with many Shantui machines working across the country.

Core business units

Founded in 2005, Cobra Equipment Sales has three key business units that are integral to its Shantui customers’ needs – new equipment, used equipment and spare parts.

Cobra’s new and used equipment business units predominantly focus on Shantui machinery, ranging from excavators, bulldozers, graders and wheel loaders – to name a few.

“We’ve always led with our new equipment, but our used equipment side of the business is still important to what we do,” Nason says.

“I started Cobra because I saw the potential in quality Chinese-made new equipment for customers that would normally be looking at used equipment. Before that, I had many years of experience in the sales and operation of used equipment.

“We source used equipment that we think will be the right fit and the right price for the market.”

Cobra’s spare parts business unit is also very important to its operations, as Nason

Cobra is working with Shantui to finalise the certification of a 19-tonne electric loader

Images:

Cobra Equipment Sales

says lots of customers have bought machinery from other now-defunct dealers and are having trouble finding spare parts.

“A lot of people thought they could get into the game by buying cheap equipment from China, and it didn’t last because they weren’t buying from top-quality brands,” he says.

“Once these businesses went broke and stopped trading, they couldn’t support their machines anymore and now there’s so many people trying to find parts.”

Due to this, spare parts have become a major part of Cobra Equipment Sales’ ongoing success.

With many connections in China and various brands manufacturing equipment there, Nason can help customers find specific spare parts – even if the equipment was bought from a business that no longer exists.

“A lot of equipment is badged as an

Australian machine even though it’s Chinese-made,” Nason says.

This is where Cobra Equipment Sales can use its sources in China to help customers find parts they would have trouble finding by themselves.

Tailor-made solutions

One key advantage that Nason says Cobra Equipment Sales has over other businesses is its ability to offer tailormade custom machinery, as well as to source machines that Nason likes to call ‘out of the box’.

What he means by this is machines that are requested by a customer which are a little bit different to the standard machines – such as graders and loaders.

Most recently, a specialist services company needed an amphibious excavator to work in a mine and Cobra was able to import one from Shantui –

specifically for that customer.

Nason says the business is also currently in the midst of supplying a custom-designed sand drying plant and filter press system.

The filter press system was requested to get rid of mud in a body of water, with Nason saying the machine will press clean water out of the mud, recycle it and drop the sludge out dry.

“Sand mining operations usually dump sludge into a dam, and it can be a headache when they need to clean it out and dispose of it,” Nason says.

“The filter press system will clean this water and produce dry materials that are easier to handle and sell.”

Using the sand drying plant, Nason says the customer will be able to dry out the sand, which will lift the value of its end product to new markets.

A company in Papua New Guinea has

Cobra is supplying a customdesigned and built filter press system

also posed a question to Nason about side lift transport equipment for picking up containers, while another business has asked about rough-terrain forklifts.

“I often get people calling me up wanting to know if we can provide these special-

ised machines and I’m very happy to deal in this space,” he says.

“A lot of larger companies are focused on selling their standard machines and don’t have time to focus on specialised equipment, so this has given us an opportunity

to venture into out-of-the-box machinery.”

Whilst Cobra is an authorised dealer and distributor of Shantui equipment, it can also supply machinery from a range of different brands.

“We can offer anything at all. With used equipment, people will call me asking for a specific machine, and then I’ll shop around to find it,” Nason says.

“With our spare parts business unit, we mainly focus on Chinese parts, but depending on what it is we have scope to source other brands as well.”

Over his many trips to China, Nason says Cobra Equipment Sales has helped to introduce several major brands into the Australian market, including XCMG, XGMA and JCM – all sold and supported under the Cobra brand.

Now that the Shantui is more established in Australia, Nason says it has proven to be more than up to the challenge of our environment.

“Sometimes imported products lack in quality, but we stand behind the Shantui brand and its durability for Australian customers,” he says.

For more information, visit cobraequipmentsales.com.au or call 07 3379 9419.

Cobra Equipment Sales also covers mining equipment

George Nason founded Cobra Equipment Sales in 2005

Tillage triumph

Tillage contractor John Davis has been thrilled with his Gregoire Besson Discordon from Waringa Distribution, with the machine being an integral part of his business

Based in York, Western Australia, Total Tillage Contracting & Hire’s name speaks for itself – providing full contract and dry hire services for farmers in the state’s Wheatbelt.

Owner John Davis purchased a Gregoire Besson Discordon one-pass finisher from Waringa Distribution approximately one year ago, as an all-in-one solution for preparing soil.

With discs, tines, ripping tines and a packer roller, the machine has been thriving in Davis’ business ever since.

“This particular machine is the biggest part of my business,” he says.

As a one-pass tillage machine, Waringa Distribution general manager Sam Abbott says it can break stubble down, incorporate lime into the soil and rip the field all in one go – instead of doing these jobs individually.

By doing this, the soil is ventilated, irri-

gated and drained – creating nutrient-enriched soil that is ready for sowing.

“Conventional rippers will rip the field, whereas this machine incorporates discs and a packer roller on the back,” Abbott says.

“The 900mm packer roller presses the ground firm and creates a good seed bed –ready for seeding.”

Attached to the back of a tractor as a trailing implement, the machine’s discs will rip through the soil while Davis drives through paddocks.

At 6.2m wide, the machine covers a large area, encompassing 13 tines ripping to 500mm with hydraulic breakout.

Versatility

Abbott says the depth of the tines can be adjusted through the hydraulics in the cab – so operators like Davis can alter the depth of the tines while ripping.

Compared to other brands, Abbott says Gregoire Besson is the only one that offers hydraulic breakout tines – separating itself from its competitors.

“All of its competitors have spring tines, but Gregoire Besson is the only brand that can have its height and depth altered,” he says.

This feature has particularly stood out for Davis, stating it as a key reason for buying the machine.

“I love the versatility the machine provides, because I’m able to lift the tines up and down independently through hydraulics,” the tillage contractor says.

Abbott says if Davis encountered areas with rocks or gravel, he can hydraulically lift the tines out of the ground –preventing damage to the machine.

“Some of our customers have been integrating this feature through their variable rate mapping system,” Waringa

Gregoire Besson’s Discordon is an all-in-one solution for preparing soil

Images: Waringa

Distribution’s general manager says.

“When they’re going across areas where they don’t want to rip as deep, the tines can be lifted out.”

To further enhance the machine’s versatility Abbott says the disc angles can be adjusted as well, depending on how aggressive the operator wants the discs to mix at.

Able to fold to 3.5m, the one-pass finisher can easily be transported – making life much easier for contractors like Davis who need to move the machine to different locations.

“I love the layout of the machine, it makes everything easier,” Davis says.

The machine can be effective in all broadacre cropping operations, with Davis saying he has seen the machine used to prepare soil for almost all crops grown in Western Australia, including canola, barley and wheat.

Abbott adds that it is a great tool for cotton growers, who can use the Discordon to pull down cotton beds, incorporate stubble and rip up the root system.

Over the course of the past year, Davis says he has been impressed with the

backup service from Waringa – another key reason for buying the machine from the Western Australian distributor.

“I used to have similar tillage machines from different brands in the past,” he says.

“Gregoire Besson’s Discordon has certainly stood out compared to my previous machines.”

For more information on Gregoire Besson’s Discordon, visit waringadistribution.com.au

A 900mm packer roller is included on the back of the machine

The depth of the tines can be adjusted through hydraulics

Mow-bot operation

Ag-Pride Australia has introduced Bomford Turner’s Flailbot range into the country, with the remote-controlled track mowers emerging as an essential product in vegetation clearance

Growing up, most people loved the joys that remote controlled toys brought them, but that’s just the beginning of what remote control capability can be used for now.

With Bomford Turner’s Flailbot remote-control track mower range, vegetation in challenging terrain can be cleared from a safe distance – making operators’ lives much easier and safer.

These machines are no toy. Instead, they are emerging as a crucial companion for vegetation management contractors and those who need to access more hazardous areas.

UK-based Bomford Turner products are distributed locally through Ag-Pride Australia, which says remote-control

track mowers will be more widely used in the near future.

“These machines are well established in Europe, but there’s not as many in Australia,” Ag-Pride product manager Lance Hills says.

“It’s an emerging market in Australia and people are starting to realise that the cost of buying a tractor is almost the same as these Flailbots – but you don’t get remote-control operation with a tractor.”

Offered in four different models with a range of sizes including mini, compact, original and supreme, Ag-Pride believes that the Flailbot’s original model is ideally suited to the market, with it boasting a 50 horsepower (37.3kW) Perkins engine.

Remote control

Hills says the core beneficial aspect of the Flailbots is that they can reach hardto-access areas and slopes, without the operator having to sit or stand on the machine – improving safety.

Using remote control, operators can drive the Flailbot from up to 150m away at speeds of up to 7km/h, keeping them at a safe distance.

The tracked mower is designed to operate on slopes with up to a 55-degree working angle, with Hills saying that most sit-on mowers and larger machines would not be able to access areas on this type of angle.

“On these types of slopes, you need a low-profile machine that’s very stable,” he says.

The Flailbot range can work in areas that larger machines would struggle to access

Images: Ag-Pride

“There aren’t really any machines that operators can sit on when working at a 55-degree angle, so that’s where the Flailbot is essential.”

If operators were using sit-on mowers for this kind of work, it could lead to a roll over and potential injury, so Hills says remote-control ability provides much greater safety when dealing with challenging terrain.

The remote control also allows operators to remotely stop and start the machine, as required.

Variety of options

Versatility is one word that encapsulates this compact, but impressive, mower range.

The machines can be used in a wide variety of applications thanks to the many optional tools and attachments, including a forestry head, stump grinder, trencher and front end loader to name a few.

“These tools and attachments replicate a tractor by turning a single machine into a multipurpose unit,” Hills says.

These options are in addition to the standard flailhead on the original model, suited to cutting all types of green vegetation with a diameter of up to 35mm.

With three different track options offered on the Flailbot, versatility is once again highlighted.

The standard rubber tracks are made

with a low impact tread pattern and have been designed for general terrain, while the ‘hi-grip’ option has a deep tread pattern – offering better grip for more challenging surfaces.

For wet areas and steep slopes, Hills says the metal spiked track option is the way to go.

“It has steel-linked tracks with spiked studs that protrude from the tracks, and this aids in the stability of the machine,” he says.

The ability to widen the tracks is also available as standard on the original model, Hills says, which allows the operator to extend individual tracks by up to 250mm – offering additional stability on steep slopes.

The underbody skin prevents external debris from entering internal components

Ease of maintenance

With any mowing work, grass and other materials are destined to cover a machine, but Hills says Bomford Turner’s compact innovation makes cleaning and maintenance easier.

The cooling fan inside the machine can be put in reverse operation to blow material away from the radiator –reducing potential damage and making cleaning on the run easier.

A tough underbody skin is also structurally integrated into the frame, with Hills saying it further prevents debris from entering the Flailbot and protects its internal components as a result.

The frame includes flashing LEDs, while powerful headlights are included to maintain high visibility and allow for night work.

With other brands of these types of machines starting to emerge in Australia, Hills believes Bomford Turner stands alone due to its history of more than 100 years.

“The quality of the Bomford Turner

brand and its history in vegetation control machinery make the Flailbot remote-control track mower stand apart from its competitors,” he says.

For more information on the Bomford Turner Flailbot remote-control track mowers, head to www.agpride.com.au or call 02 4964 8818.

Operators can drive the Flailbot using the remote-control from up to 150m away

Jetland loading ramps: covering bases

Jetland’s wide range of loading ramps is broadening its appeal in numerous sectors using heavy machinery, with agriculture being one important market

The value of Jetland Loading Ramps’ products can be seen through the variety of industries to which they appeal.

Farmers are undoubtedly a core market for the Melbourne-based company, which also offers free delivery to a network of depots and commercial businesses with loading facilities around the country, but that just tells part of the story.

Part of the appeal lies in the depth of stock which Jetland can offer, with its ramps specifically designed to be suited to everything from wheelchairs through to 42-tonne machinery.

This allows customers to browse the Jetland range with confidence there will be a ramp available in the configuration and weight requirement needed.

Jetland’s website is continually updated

to reflect stock that is available and ready for delivery, allowing customers to order with the knowledge they can quickly receive their ramp.

For customers able to visit Jetland’s warehouse in the south-eastern Melbourne suburb of Mordialloc, there is also the option of collecting directly –meaning customers can be using their new ramp on the same day they begin a search.

If all of this is still not enough for the perfect ramp to be found, Jetland also offers extensive customisation options.

This allows customers to tailor ramps to their specific needs, knowing Jetland can create bespoke pieces with varying lengths, widths or load capacities.

As a result, Jetland has developed a

wide customer base that reflects the variety of its product offering.

Highlighting just a few customers gives an insight into the broad demographic of Australians benefiting from a Jetland ramp.

One customer owns both an earthmoving business and an eight hectare property, purchasing a 3.5m long Jetland ramp with a six-tonne rated capacity to handle everything from transporting an 80hp tractor through to excavators and a small truck.

Another customer is a second-generation plumbing business in Melbourne, with its fleet consisting of trucks, skid steers and excavators.

Located near Jetland’s warehouse, this customer was able to pick up their new ramps directly.

Images: Jetland

Jetland’s ramps have the strength to handle heavy machinery

Another major benefit for this customer was finding a 3.9m long ramp, with the extra 30cm over the more common 3.6m size making the loading and unloading experience more comfortable.

The earthmoving sector forms a big portion of Jetland’s clientele, with the wide size range offered providing versatility for all operators, regardless of size.

To highlight just one civil and earthworks business, which is also based in Melbourne, a 5.5 tonne excavator and compact track loader have seen plenty of time on the Jetland ramps.

This company has now bought from Jetland on three separate occasions, with all sets being in the six-tonne rated range and at various lengths.

Despite being worked hard, the ramps have had “absolutely no issues,” thanks to their quality, with continual refinement by Jetland meaning the most recent set weighs 20kg less than the customer’s previous pair – but with absolutely no compromise on strength.

The strength of Jetland’s ramps is a common theme reported by all customers, who have been able to push the ramps right up to the rated load capacity on a regular basis without any problems.

High-quality materials are used throughout, ensuring the ramps’ durability but also remaining lightweight and able to be set up and moved comfortably.

Safety is also at the forefront of Jetland’s design, with all products either meeting or exceeding Australian loading ramp safety standards.

Anti-slip surfaces help to ensure maximum traction while loading or unloading machinery, and all ramps feature locking pins to ensure they do not move.

Jetland also offers four series of ramps, with the load capacity being one major difference between them.

Jetland’s A Series suits rubber track machines, the B and C Series both suit rubber track and tyre machines, while the D Series suits steel track and rubber pads on steel, plus both rubber track and tyre.

This knowledge also helps customers ensure they are getting the correct style of ramp for their needs, ultimately increasing both safety and efficiency.

All Jetland ramps are backed up by a 12-month warranty for additional peace of mind.

Jetland’s full range and available stock can be viewed at jetlandramps.com.au while its national warehouse is located at the rear of 211-219 Boundary Road in Mordialloc.

Jetland’s ramps are available in various length and capacities

Market boom

New Holland’s subcompact Boomer 25C tractor has been a hit with dealers and customers alike since its launch two years ago

When New Holland first launched its Boomer 25C tractor at AgQuip 2022, the company said the new unit was filling a previously unrepresented gap in its product line-up.

It marked the manufacturer’s re-entry into the subcompact tractor market, targeting those with acreage wanting a small but versatile machine for jobs around the property and gardens.

Fast forward two years and the Boomer 25C is achieving its target and proving a winner, thanks to its versatility and ease of use.

“It’s a versatile tractor in terms of having so many uses and applications, so it’s really hit the ground running,” Stag Machinery Group sales manager Bruce McGregor says.

“Our customers have been really pleased, because they’re so versatile and also liking the fact they’re easy to operate and anyone in the family can use them.

“It’s suitable for everyone and it’s just a good all-round tractor which is also very competitively priced.”

Stag sales manager Bruce McGregor with the Boomer 25C at FarmFest. Image: Prime Creative Media

The Boomer 25C tractor is designed for ease of use. Image: New Holland

Stag Machinery Group is a Queensland-based New Holland dealer which has branches in Toowoomba, Dalby and Chinchilla.

As McGregor says, its customers have

found the Boomer 25C to be a winner and this endorsement is certainly not region-specific.

To cite just one example, Farms & Farm Machinery highlighted the Mount Martha

Public Golf Course’s use of the Boomer 25C last year, with maintenance and upkeep of the course on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula made easier with the subcompact tractor.

New Holland’s Boomer 25C tractor has been popular since its launch.

Image: New Holland

Another user experiencing the tractor’s benefits is Stag Machinery Group customer Hedley Eulenstein.

He used to own a larger farm in north-west New South Wales but is now semi-retired and lives on the outskirts of Toowoomba, where he owns 320 acres (130 hectares).

The Boomer 25C is a relatively recent purchase for Eulenstein, having only clocked up 30 hours on it, but this has been long enough for the experienced tractor owner to feel satisfied with his purchase.

This was also his first ever investment in the blue of New Holland tractors, having chosen it in part due to its immediate availability at Stag Machinery Group and the “terrific” service he received.

“This is the first New Holland tractor I’ve ever owned and I’m very pleased with it,” he says.

“I bought it do little bits of work around the garden, to put down pipe for watering systems and cleaning bits and pieces up around the garden.

“It’s very handy - it’s a great little tractor and it’s good for getting little bits of dirt

for the garden too.

“The four-in-one bucket is good on it and it’s really easy to operate and suits my needs.

“My sons have borrowed it as well and they love it too.”

As a subcompact machine, the Boomer 25C is the smallest tractor within New Holland’s Australian range.

It offers a 24.7hp (18.4kW), three-cylinder 1.3L diesel engine, while measuring just 2.58m long and just 2.35m from the ground to the top of the ROPS frame.

The Boomer 25C also has a 1.43m wheelbase and two-range hydrostatic transmission.

An aspect which has proven to be popular with buyers is the option of having factory-supplied attachments such as a front-end loader, backhoe or mid-mount mower fitted to the tractor.

Eulenstein, for example, has a backhoe fitted to his Boomer 25C to make jobs even easier.

New Holland describes the Boomer 25C as being bigger and more capable than a lawnmower but without the weight, horsepower or price tag of a full tractor.

For customers such as Eulenstein, this size tractor perfectly fits the brief, while also being an ideal second tractor for farmers already owning something larger.

Many of these characteristics ring true with how McGregor describes the Boomer 25C, both in terms of the demographic it has appealed to among Stag Machinery Group’s customers and the features they have been drawn to.

“In terms of the customer base, it has been really diverse from someone on the edge of town with an acre block, to considerable size properties where they’re using it around the yards for landscaping and mowing,” McGregor says.

“Everyone wants a loader with a four in one bucket. It’s very versatile and the beauty of it is a hydrostatic transmission, so it’s really easy for everyone to use.

“Having the PTO and linkage on the back means we’ve got that adaptability for putting on extra attachments, whether it be a backhoe or mid-mount mower.”

The Boomer 25C is available through New Holland’s national dealer network.

HARVEST SUPERCHARGER

Unload 20 tonnes per minute

Tough, bolt together, non-cracking bin

In-built scales and auto outload

Full auger pivot, suits grain baggers

4-wheel steer and auto steer lock

Optional Pro system and Connect app for joystick control

Direct drive gearbox – no belts and chains

Winning formula

Dieci’s Agri Plus 42.7GD takes the features its telehandlers are renowned for and adds both strength and refinement for Australian farmers

The word ‘plus’ in Dieci’s Agri Plus 42.7GD telehandler might refer to its plus-size nature – but could just as easily refer to the number of big plusses that its feature list offers.

Capable of handling advanced agricultural needs, this is a feature-packed telehandler offering plenty of benefits to farmers seeking something suited to Australian conditions and needs.

The Agri Plus 42.7GD offers a maximum 4,200kg lift capacity and maximum 7.2m lift height, while weighing 8 ,500kg unladen.

This puts it a step up from another popular telehandler in Dieci’s range, the Agri Plus 40.7, with the 42.7GD offering an additional 200kg in lift capacity and 20cm in maximum reach.

These specifications on the 42.7GD

a re complemented by a 138hp (103kW) four-cylinder FPT diesel engine, 224L/ min hydraulic pump capacity, 8,000daN of pull-out force and 8,900daN of towing force.

Undoubtedly one of a telehandler’s most crucial elements is its boom, which is why Dieci spent so much time and effort developing a new boom with advanced functions and increased performance for the Agri Plus range.

T he reinforced high-strength steel boom offers greater swinging force and an extension cylinder with closing shock absorber.

Boom movements and travel direction are controlled uniquely by the electronic joystick, which also integrates the shuttle control for fast and intuitive operation. Advanced technology within the boom

includes the shake function – to enable detachment of residual material at the bottom of the bucket, a wall function that allows load lifting along a vertical line with a single joystick movement to facilitate stacking, and a memory function t hat records a boom position and can be reached again with a single click.

An electronic control unit handles all machine control functions and monitors the best working parameters while optimising boom movements.

Load sensing and flow sharing hydraulic distributors ensure more simultaneous movements and greater control responsiveness to increase safety and efficiency.

T he telehandler’s reliability is also shown through a stronger, more robust and more stable chassis plus the double-cylinder, double-action hydraulic

Dieci’s Agri Max 42.7GD telehandler

accessories lock which provides maximum stability.

I nside the cabin, Dieci has added a unique shock absorbing system.

The cabin’s hydraulic suspension offers four supports that absorb impacts and jolts in every direction, and which the manufacturer says is capable of “effectively dampening the most annoying oscillations on the roughest terrain”.

Plenty of other features have been included to ensure operators are both comfortable and efficient in their work while using the Agri Plus 42.7GD.

Additional legroom has been created thanks to a redesigned cabin, which also offers an adjustable steering column and armrest.

There is a heated seat, three suspension system options, quick demisting of the large windows, integrated LED work lights including on the boom and boom head, plus a new display featuring completely redesigned graphics.

Operators also have the choice of four driving modes.

The normal mode allows speeds between 0-40km/h without gear shifting, to help ensure maximum performance at all times, while the eco mode allows the same speed range but with lower fuel consumption and noise emissions.

While operating in creeper mode, the engine’s rpm is set independently of the speed to provide maximum accessory power even at low speed, while the loader mode is dedicated to heavy duty use at low speeds.

Cruise control and a gear lock are also offered in the Agri Plus 42.7GD.

Its hydrostatic Vario transmission system EVO2 is electronically controlled with two hydrostatic motors providing continuous automatic adjustment.

Another technological option is the addition of Dieci’s telematic system, which a llows the manufacturer to interact with the machine remotely.

This allows for full monitoring and diagnostics, along with suggesting efficiencies a nd detecting any anomalies such as the telehandler leaving a predefined area.

Along with all its Italian-made telehandlers, Dieci’s Agri Plus 42.7GD offers t he technology required for modern usage, the strength and reliability needed for Australia’s harsh conditions, a comfortable and intuitive user experience, a ll while being backed by a manufacturer with a long history in Australia and g lobally.

Dieci Australia’s full range can be viewed online at www.dieciaustralia.com.au

The 42.7GD is designed for heavy duty usage

A 4.2 tonne lift capacity makes the telehandler ideal for Australian needs

In addition to its strength, the Agri Max 42.7GD has plenty of refinements

Fab grab

Kerfab’s range of locally manufactured attachments are proving to be straightforward while providing solutions to Australian farmers

Getting the job done without any hassle is what every farmer wants from their implements.

For Tony May, from Marley Pastoral in New South Wales, a Kerfab tractor hay fork is doing exactly that.

Based at Bendemeer, north-east of Tamworth, Marley Pastoral breeds Angus cattle and has roughly 100 breeders while operating about 1,000 acres (405 hectares).

Hay handling can often be a thankless task, but one which can easily become a problematic time waster without the perfect equipment.

This was the exact scenario May found himself in before investing in Kerfab’s tractor hay fork.

“It was quite an arduous task loading hay on to the back of the ute and most of the time it wouldn’t lift high enough,” he says.

“Making them balance on the two forks and being safe at the same time was quite arduous as well.

“Now we’ve got this Kerfab product we’ve got no dramas.

“We’ve been using it on the farm moving hay around while we’ve been feeding stock in the little bit of a harder time that we’ve gone through recently, with the dry weather.

“The product does really well. The bale forks now just drive in, push the forks through and pick up and load and away we go.”

Based at Kerang in northern Victoria,

Kerfab marked 30 years in operation last year.

It manufactures attachments such as bale forks, pallet forks and buckets and recently invested in a second factory to

Kerfab’s tractor hay fork makes bale handling easy

Images: Kerfab

Tony May from Marley Pastoral in New South Wales

FOR THE FARMER

bolster its production capacity.

Kerfab’s attachments are built locally for Australian conditions and are designed to solve the real-world problems faced on Australian farms.

May’s experience with the tractor hay

fork is testament to this.

“One of the best things about the Kerfab spikes that we’ve got is that there’s actually four spikes on the actual implement, which allows us to pick up the big bales without breaking and damaging any

bales,” he says.

“The high back allows us to pick up two bales at a time for ease of unloading off semi-trailers when they’re coming in, and getting them in and out as quick as possible.

“What I like most about the Kerfab forks is that it’s a safe product,” he says.

“We don’t have any issues on the farm as far as safety is concerned - it’s accessible, maintenance-free and does its job.

“It’s just an easy product - straight hitch on to the front of the skid steer, lock and away we go – drive in, pick up and drop.”

Kerfab also refers to its tractor hay fork as an ‘ag loader bale fork’ in recognition of its ability to be used with larger front-end loaders and skid steers – which is the machine May has his attached to – in addition to tractors.

It is a versatile and adaptable unit, capable of handling individual or multiple bales regardless of whether they are round or square.

It has an adjustable back frame with both manual and hydraulic options, plus several customisation options to make it perfect for all needs.

The standard size model is available with an adjustable back frame in a range of heights between 1.5m and 2.4m, along with the choice of three, four or five tines.

The curved top frame also allows for greater stability with handling multiple bales.

A larger size hay fork is also available, offering back frame heights between 1.8m

The Kerfab product can handle multiple bales

Tony May has his tractor hay fork attached to a skid steer

and 3m with the capacity to lift an additional two bales.

Kerfab’s products are backed up by an extensive national dealer network, which includes May’s nearest supplier - Double R in Tamworth.

“I rang up the boys at Double R chasing a hay fork and they pointed us in the right direction of Kerfab,” May says.

“The product stood out to us because of their recommendation. They’ve used the Kerfab brand previously and we’ve run with what they were suggesting.

“It fitted inside our budget and it’s a good product all round. We have no issues and it’s maintenance free.

“Now we actually know a lot more about the product, we would look to use Kerfab again in the future.”

Kerfab’s factory and head office is at 11 Tate Drive, Kerang and it is backed up by an additional warehouse and staff in the Perth suburb of Canning Vale.

The manufacturer’s full product range and national dealer network can be viewed at www.kerfab.com.au

• 4.4 litre Perkins engine

• 32 speed transmission

• Power Shuttle

• Hi-Lo Power Shift

• Bosch electronic linkage control

• Auto PTO

• 3 sets of hydraulic remotes

• Loader with Euro hitch & 4-in-1 bucket

• Integrated loader joystick

• 18.4R34 radial tyres

• FREE front mudguards

• FREE instructor seat

• FREE loader hydraulic soft ride

• And lots more...

The bale spikes add additional stability during handling

Track record

As the name suggests, JCB’s Fastrac tractor is fast – and that feature is making a difference for one South Australian farmer FOR

JCB’s Fastrac 8330 iCON tractor boasts a maximum speed of 70km/h.

This is an attention-grabbing figure and something which makes the manufacturer proud, but for South Australian farmer Josh Richardson it represents so much more than just a number on a page.

Richardson’s farm is diverse and includes more than 5,500 acres (2,226 hectares) which are used for cropping and raising more than 5,000 ewes, about 140 cows and a piggery with about 500 sows.

Based at Tintinara in the state’s southeast, his operations also include another farm at Padthaway, located about 100km away.

With such significant distances to cover on a regular basis, the adage of time equalling money is at the forefront of Richardson’s mind.

This additional speed offered by the JCB Fastrac 8330 iCON, compared to other tractors, was a major factor in Richard-

son’s recent purchase decision.

“The thing that sold it to us was the travel and speed in getting wherever we need to,” he says.

“It’s the comfiest tractor we’ve got on the property but what we like so much about it is we’re spread out a bit, so we can travel from point A to point B probably one-third quicker than what we could with any other tractor we’ve got on the farm.

“When you’ve got labour sitting in a tractor, it makes a big difference for sure.

“We’ve also got the farm at Padthaway so when we need to do some pasture spreading there, we just put the spreader on and you’re there in not even two hours, whereas if you drive a normal tractor there it will take you three and a half hours.”

iCONic upgrades

In creating the Fastrac 8330 iCON, JCB has managed to combine three sought-after characteristics which seem like a chal-

lenge to mesh – a powerful tractor capable of handling the big jobs thanks to its 348hp (260kW) engine, a high maximum speed which enables farmers to move around quickly, plus a focus on improving the cabin and suspension to ensure drivers are comfortable while doing so.

Add in the iCON concept, which is a technology-packed suite that brings a new level of sophistication to what operators can do, and the result is a tractor a lready making an impact for Australian farmers such as Richardson.

The first significant upgrade JCB can offer thanks to the iCON concept is a new 12-inch (30cm) touchscreen display and armrest console.

This offers fully integrated ISOBUS connectivity, GPS guidance display options a nd implement control applications.

Its basic layout will be familiar to previous Fastrac users, however it adds the ability to swipe across the screen

JCB’s Fastrac 8330 iCON, right, alongside the smaller 4220 iCON. Image: CEA

FOR THE FARMER

and access more detailed information – including front and rear spool valve settings, remote camera view and headland turn-assist programming.

A reconfigured joystick can also have virtually any function allocated to each of its buttons, creating a bespoke experience for an individual user’s specific needs.

Operators can also utilise JCB’s Smart Transmission Control, which offers a speed-based driving system with multiple cruise control options, allowing the tractor speed to be controlled by the thumb roller on the main joystick.

JCB’s Fastrac 8330 iCON is a tractor with style, but that does not come at the

expense of the substance required by Australian farmers on a daily basis.

The powerful 348hp engine is backed up by 1,500Nm of torque and an impressive 10,000kg rear lift capacity.

A 50-50 weight distribution helps to optimise its tractive performance in the field and make it a star performer with even the heaviest of implements.

Dual-line steering, twin-caliper ABS disc brakes and a full-length rigid chassis provide high levels of safety, while anti-roll bars and an advanced suspension system offer improved stability at high speed.

Decision time

For Richardson, while this purchase was

his first JCB tractor, it was by no means a random decision.

He has owned other JCB equipment for many years and built an ongoing relationship with his nearest dealer, Ramsey Brothers in Murray Bridge.

His story is also a strong endorsement of the importance of long-term relationships, plus the benefit of letting customers have a test drive even if it does not lead to an immediate sale.

“I’ve had a long relationship with Ramsey Brothers having bought gear for nearly 15 years, and I’ve found them to be very good to me,” Richardson says.

“About four or five years ago I test drove a JCB that was a 220hp tractor.

Josh Richardson’s Fastrac 8330 iCON tractor. Image: Josh Richardson

“It didn’t have the horsepower and the weight required for what I wanted to do with it at the time, but we’ve expanded a reasonable amount since then.

“This time when I was looking, I was after more of a broad-spectrum tractor like the JCB.

“I ultimately bought the Fastrac to travel from farm to farm when we’re spreading and when we’re rolling in crop.

“With the four-wheel disc brakes, it could also go on the chaser bin at harvest time.

“Apart from buying a tractor where we needed the horsepower to tow something, it was just a good all-round tractor for us.”

The JCB Fastrac 8330 iCON meets Richardson’s requirements in terms of both speed and power, but he says the best feature of all is one which only became apparent after purchase.

“I’ve driven a lot of tractors, but it’s by far the most comfortable tractor we’ve ever had on our farm.”

Fastrac iCON tractors are distributed in Australia by JCB CEA’s extensive dealer network.

TYM tractors from 19 to 100 hp, made strong for the Australian farmer. Quality Made in Korea. Great value tractors packed with features. 3 year warranty plan.

reconfigured tech suite. Image: CEA

There’s a pulse

Pigeon pea is being explored as a new broadacre summer pulse crop option in Queensland and northern NSW due to its adaptability to the hotter and drier conditions. It also has the potential to reduce the need for nitrogen fertilisers – Jackson Haddad writes

One of the most consumed pulse crops in the world behind chickpea, pigeon pea is a key ingredient in Indian recipes, where it is known as toor dahl.

The Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) has partnered with the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) and the Woods Group to explore pigeon pea as a new broadacre summer pulse crop option in Queensland and northern NSW.

Pigeon pea is currently grown in Australia, but mostly as a trap crop, also known as a refuge crop, planted to attract pests away from cotton being grown nearby.

However, DAF research in 2020 found

that pigeon pea has clear potential to move beyond its current role as a trap crop to become a key summer pulse crop for the northern grain growing region.

With this greater potential in mind, Queensland’s DAF has partnered with GRDC to explore pigeon pea as a viable broadacre cropping option.

GRDC grower relations manager – north, Rebecca Raymond, says in order to establish a minimum viable industry, growers want to see viable and profitable varieties and evidence of a pathway to production success.

“Through consultation via GRDC’s National Grower Network, and building on previous work done by DAF, we know

that the northern grains industry needs a robust summer pulse that is easier to manage and more adaptable than current options, particularly for the drier and hotter regions of south-west Queensland and north-west New South Wales,” she says.

“However, we need to do a bit more work to establish a pathway to production success and everything needed for a sustainable pigeon pea industry in the region, so we’ve partnered on these investments to do exactly that.

“DAF’s work will focus on new pigeon pea varieties and genetic research to support the industry, and the Woods Group will investigate the development of a full agronomic package, proving pathway to

Pigeon pea is being explored a new broadacre summer pulse crop option in Queensland and northern NSW. Image: Dinesh/stock.adobe.com

production success,” Raymond says.

“Our goal is to provide Queensland and northern NSW growers with a new high-value crop option that not only adapts well to our summer conditions but also contributes to sustainable farming practices by reducing the need for nitrogen fertilisers.”

Already identifying an export opportunity, GRDC is also targeting the people who want to eat toor dahl in Australia –specifically Indian diaspora.

“The market that we’re targeting with this crop is for human consumption,” Raymond says.

“We’d like to grow pigeon pea here in Australia to supply to our own market as well.”

Previously there have only been trap crop varieties of pigeon pea, but now there

are new varieties tested by Queensland DAF which are better suited to hotter and drier conditions.

In the previous trap crop varieties, pigeon pea is taller than the new varieties and flowers for a longer period of time –attracting moths to the crop and therefore away from the cotton.

Raymond says the new varieties are a lot shorter in stature and do not have strong photosensitivity, so they flower for a shorter length of time.

“This means that farmers will be able to sow the crop and have a greater understanding of when it will flower rather

Queensland DAF Kingaroy Research Station. Image: Rebecca Raymond

Pigeon pea is a key ingredient in Indian recipes. Image: Sac ro jobh/stock.adobe.com

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

than when the crop hits a predetermined daylength, this makes managing the crop much easier,” she says

Nitrogen fix

As a leguminous crop (part of the pea family), pigeon pea can fix nitrogen from the soil and atmosphere into a form that it can use to grow.

Having this ability, pigeon pea has the potential to reduce the need for nitrogen fertilisers which are costly and can have significant negative impacts on the environment.

With the new varieties being tested and more research being done on its nitrogen fixing capabilities, GRDC and DAF have held several field walks to give growers an opportunity to view the pigeon pea lines first-hand.

Field walks

So far, three field walks have been held in Queensland due to the hotter and drier conditions that pigeon pea can adapt to.

The field walks were held at the Queensland Government Kingaroy Research Facility, the Tosari crop research centre in Pampas and a farm in Warra.

“We had good numbers at all of the field walks with a lot of interest, and lots of people have called me to chat more about pigeon pea,” Raymond says.

“We’re still a couple of years away from having fully commercially viable crops, but there certainly is a lot of interest particularly with the agronomists and the growers to watch it over the next year or two.”

A key interest of agronomists and grower, according to Raymond, is that pigeon pea can provide an alternative to

mung beans in regions that struggle to get them to yield due to heat and moisture limitations.

Mung beans need more favourable conditions than pigeon pea, such as moisture when they go to flower, or it will be difficult to achieve good yields.

“The northern grains industry needs a robust summer pulse that is easier to manage and more adaptable than current options, particularly for the drier and hotter regions of south-west Queensland and north-west New South Wales,” Raymond says.

“Our goal is to provide Queensland and northern NSW growers with a new high-value crop option that not only adapts well to our summer conditions but also contributes to sustainable farming practices by reducing the need for nitrogen fertilisers.”

The Queensland DAF trial site at the Tosari Crop Research Centre. Image: Rebecca Raymond

TRENDS AND DATA

Sales dip

Tractor sales dropped across the board in May, however a more realistic comparison of the current market is expected from July onwards

Tractor sales in all categories were down for the month of May. Image: Johan Larsen/stock.adobe.com

Sales of tractors were down again in the month of May, with just over 1,000 units sold across Australia.

This was 26 per cent less than the same month last year and brings the year-todate position to a level which is 25 per cent behind the corresponding period.

May and June 2023 were the last two months of the Federal Government’s temporary full expensing program which drove sales to unprecedented levels.

As a result, a more realistic month to month comparison is expected to appear from July onwards as the impact of this incentive disappears.

Overall, the TMA is still forecasting a healthy 2024 for sales as winter rains across the country deliver ideal growing conditions for the foreseeable future.

Dealers are reporting strong demand for items such as seeders and weed spraying equipment, which is generally a precursor to strong tractor demand.

Looking at the state-by-state picture, Queensland was down 15 per cent against the same month last year, to be 17 per cent behind year to date.

New South Wales was down 31 per cent for May and is now 29 per cent behind for the year, while Victoria was down by 29 per cent this month and sits 21 per cent below last year.

Western Australia reported a drop of 29 per cent for the month, to be down 8 per cent compared with the same time last year.

South Australia had another big drop, down 25 per cent, and is now down 24 per cent on the year to date.

Tasmania was off 39 per cent for the month with sales in the Northern Territory being the only one to increase, finishing 1 1 per cent up.

Sales of the 200hp plus (150kw plus) range, which have been largely positive all year, experienced a complete turnaround.

T hey were 41 per cent down compared to the same month last year, but remain 7 per cent ahead year to date.

The small, under 40hp (under 30kw) category was down by 9 per cent for the month to be 24 per cent behind year to date.

The 40hp to 100hp (30-75kw) range was also down again, this time by 37 per cent, and is now behind 35 per cent for year to date.

Lastly, the 100hp to 200hp (75-150 kw) category was down 14 per cent to be 19 per cent off for the year.

Sales of combine harvesters are yet to materialise however dealers are reporting a healthy forward order book and expect another solid season.

TMA conference

Gary Northover is executive director of the Tractor & Machinery Association of Australia (TMA). He can be contacted on (03) 9813 8011 or at gary@tma.asn.au

This year’s TMA conference is scheduled to be held on Thursday July 18 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, a venue the association last visited in 2017.

Continuing the theme of Towards 2030, the conference will feature an exciting line-up of speakers on critical industry issues such as AI in agriculture, farm safety a nd more.

There will also be the regular economic update from Westpac’s Justin Smirk and the state of industry report from Ky netec.

Tickets are now on sale at the TMA website www.tma.asn.au.

Finally, the TMA’s annual State of the Industry report is now available for download on the association’s website.

OPINION

Brick walls

Walls of legislation need to be removed if Australian agriculture is to thrive into the future,

WAFarmers members, and in fact every farmer across Australia, are facing ‘walls of legislation’ under the current federal government.

For a government that came to power on a campaign promise of ‘a better future’, one has to wonder: who was this aimed at?

Their policies certainly aren’t making things any better for farmers or the regional communities that support agriculture.

Whether it’s live exports, interest rates, tax, superannuation, emissions reductions, industrial relations, or farm labour — this government has continually thrown bricks at farmers, making the future of farming even more uncertain.

We all know that sheep producers were abandoned by the federal government to appease inner-city animal welfare activists, but they aren’t the only ones sold out by this government.

Prime Minister Albanese has hit all Australian farmers with a biosecurity tax that effectively taxes production — not profits, not imported containers, but turnover.

This is a regressive tax that is all too easy for the government to increase without promising anything in return.

It mirrors the taxes used in failed economies like Argentina, where desperate revenue-raising measures prevail over sound policy.

WAFarmers CEO Trevor Whittington describes the legislation as being a brick wall for farmers.

Image: aboutmomentsimages / stock.adobe.com

What the government intends to do with this tax remains unclear. It hasn’t been targeted at protecting farm biosecurity; instead, it disappears into the government’s bottomless treasury pit, never to benefit the industry it burdens.

Moreover, the government’s failure to address the agricultural labour shortage persists. Despite a steady influx of migrants, few are willing to work in regional areas — a predictable outcome under a government that is not interested in pushing people to where the work is.

For those reliant on efficient ports and infrastructure, the new industrial relations system offers nothing better. It complicates employment processes and undermines productivity rather than fostering growth.

Let’s not overlook the superannuation changes that threaten farmers’ retirements, with taxes on superannuation balances doubling to 30 per cent for balances over $3 million, potentially forcing farmers to sell family land to rebalance their financial portfolios.

A ‘better future’ doesn’t include increased interest rates on mortgages and farm debts. These burdens stem from the government’s reckless spending policies, which drive inflation and, consequently, higher interest rates.

There is nothing better about this government’s vision for farmers.

If anything, it echoes the high-tax, high-interest-rate policies of past administrations, reminiscent of the Whitlam era that hindered rather than supported agricultural prosperity.

Some of you may recall the ‘It’s Time’ campaign of 1972, which swept Gough Whitlam and Labor into power, only to be swiftly followed by public disillusionment, then came the dismissal and the infamous slogan to ‘turn on the lights’ run by Labor for the 1975 campaign.

That is a political slogan that Albanese certainly won’t be using in 2025 if they go to the polls next year, as there is no guarantee the lights will remain on over summer as Australia runs out of steam, the coal runs out and the lights go out as a result of their reliance on renewables.

Mind you, he also probably won’t be turning to the 1977 election slogan of ‘it’s time for a change’ as farmers might just get what many are wishing for which is a change of government.

‘Change’ is exactly what the ‘Save the Sheep’ campaign is all about.

A grassroots campaign organised by ‘Friends of Farmers and Farming Communities’, a network of organisations including WAFarmers all linked to the sheep industry, has seen 2,000 people turn out in Perth and then Muresk protesting the government’s live export policy.

Farmers want the policy changed, or if that fails, they want a change in government.

Farmers and the community around us have woken up that this government is not the farmers’ friend.

Trevor Whittington is CEO of WAFarmers

WAFarmers CEO Trevor Whittington says

Image:

WAFarmers

Live sheep exports have been a major point of contention. Image: redzaal / stock.adobe.com

In fact, we are facing the most economically destructive government since Whitlam in the 1970s.

Not only are they destroying our sheep industry and taxing farmers on their production, but they are closing down farmers who rely on the Murray Darling irrigation scheme and encouraging the big corporates to buy up productive farmland to turn them into carbon farms growing trees and destroying rural communities.

It does not end there. This is the government that is closing down fisheries with their Commonwealth marine parks and shutting mining with their plan to end coal mining and gas exploration.

All three wealth-producing parts of primary industry are under attack while the government talks up this fantasy of turning Australia into a renewable energy superpower.

In reality, they are more likely to turn our farming landscape into a renewable energy wasteland of derelict wind farm towers, which will one day be a costly reminder of a failed government’s utopian dream.

If we are living in Labor’s ‘better future’

then what can we expect when the going gets tough and the economy really comes under pressure from higher labour and energy costs?

Will Australian farmers see more taxes on production like the biosecurity tax?

Certainly we can expect the recently dumped ute tax to make a comeback, just as we can expect carbon taxes on our diesel and inputs as the government looks around for an easy target to partially fulfill its rapidly failing 46 per cent emission reduction target by 2030.

What better way to reduce livestock emissions than to drive farmers out of

livestock? This is exactly what the government’s live export ban will do.

What better way to reduce farm emissions than drive farmers out of grain production and into carbon farming trees?

We all know the government’s 2030 and 2050 carbon targets are doomed to failure, just like their election promise of lower power costs per household has proved to be wishful thinking.

Just as the promise of a magical market to replace live exports with chilled mutton exports will prove to be wishful thinking. There is no ‘better future’ when all you are faced with are ‘walls of legislation’.

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The federal government needs to listen to farmers, Trevor Whittington says. Image: Taras Vyshnya / stock.adobe.com

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Forward thinking

Hort Connections’ trade show allowed machinery manufacturers the chance to showcase horticulture-specific products, including various autonomous innovations

More than 4,000 delegates attended this year’s Hort Connections conference, marking a record attendance for the Australian horticulture industry’s annual event.

Held at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre in early June, visitors could browse through a trade show filled with machinery, technology and produce that showcased every aspect of the industry.

This was supplemented by events such as an industry breakfast, gala dinner and plenary sessions throughout.

Here is a selection of the machinery being displayed during the trade show:

Burro

The autonomous Burro robot caught the eye as it roamed around the Hort Connections trade show.

Distributed by Agri Automation, the Burro is fitted with computer vision, artificial intelligence and high-precision GPS to make it a game changer on farms.

It can complete many tasks such as carrying produce and materials, towing

trailers and spraying, with further tasks in development.

The Original Burro, which can carry 500lb (225kg) and Burro Grande, with a 1500lb (680kg) carrying capacity were both on display.

Weed Selector

Shown in collaboration with the Burro was Agtech by Design’s Weed Selector.

This green-on-brown system is an AI-vision based spot spraying system which is designed for use in vineyards and orchard crops.

The company says it offers 60 to 80 per cent chemical savings and reduces orchard soil damage.

As it works with autonomous vehicles such as Burro, it also reduces operator exposure to residual chemicals.

ADM

Melbourne-based ADM Packaging Automation showcased its locally manufactured VFFS (vertical form fill and seal) machines.

Otherwise known as bag makers,

these machines work in a variety of food packaging settings, including the agriculture-focused dairy industry.

These machines can form a valuable part of a dairy production line, along with packaging horticulture-specific products such as fruit, and can have optional upgrades such as re-closeable zippers and vacuum seals.

ADM’s C-Series machines offer continuous motion, along with better tracking performance due to consistent film tensioning, better speeds and longer filling time.

AgXeed

Distributed locally by Landpower Australia, the AgBot 5.115T2 was one of the larger machines at Hort Connections.

This autonomous system attaches to a variety of implements to complete tasks such as soil and seedbed preparation along with seeding.

It has variable track widths for versatility and works alongside the AgXCloud farm management app and portal.

At Hort Connections, the AgBot was

Images: Prime Creative Media.

The autonomous Burro robot roaming around the Hort Connections trade show

Agtech by Design’s Weed Selector

EVENT NEWS

paired with a KG 3001 Super rotary cultivator from fellow Landpower brand Amazone. AgXeed also won a silver medal for innovation at last year’s Agritechnica in Germany.

Prospr

The new Prospr autonomous vehicle, manufactured by New Zealand’s Robotics Plus and distributed locally by Croplands, was another popular machine at the trade show.

Prospr is specifically designed for the horticulture industry and its capabilities include automated intelligent spraying. Its modular flexibility and adaptable design allow it to be used across various crop

types and applications, while multiple units can collaborate in a fleet.

Either two, three or four Quantum sprayer modules feature on each side of Prospr, allowing different spray rates to be controlled, while intelligent safety features and a simple user interface are all present.

GUSS

John Deere had its GUSS sprayer, which stands for Global Unmanned Spray System, as part of the Hort Connections trade show.

First unveiled at last year’s event, this semi-autonomous system is described by the manufacturer as being the “future of

high value crop spraying”.

GUSS uses sophisticated systems such as vehicle sensors and software to supplement GPS and guide it safely and efficiently through crops.

Its semi-autonomous nature means one person can supervise up to eight machines while seated inside a ute.

Deere also had a 5105MH tractor displayed outside the main trade show.

This 104hp (77kW) tractor is the midsize unit in its high crop tractor range.

Kubota Kubota was another manufacturer which exhibited both inside and outside the trade show entry doors.

John Deere’s GUSS sprayer

The Florida semi-automatic transplanter from Sfoggia Agricultural Division

AgXeed’s autonomous AgBot 5.115T2

ADM Packaging Automation’s George Fakhry with the VFFS machine

As visitors approached the entrance, they were greeted with an M9540 tractor that had a VP1400 vegetable planter attached to it.

The M9540 is a 95hp tractor showcased at Hort Connections in cabin form, while the VP1400 has a 4m frame width and a maximum 28 rows.

Inside the hall, the Kubota implements took the spotlight with these planters being among the products showcased.

Fendt

Tractor manufacturer Fendt had one of the largest machines inside the trade show – the 728 Vario Gen7.

Part of the 700 Gen 7 Series, this ma-

chine has previously won the 2023 Tractor of the Year prize voted on by European journalists at the EIMA exhibition.

It features the newly developed Fendt VarioDrive driveline, integrated VarioGrip tyre pressure control system and FendtOne operating system, along with a six-cylinder, 7.5L Agco-Power engine, which produces a maximum of 283hp (211kW) and also allows extra power of up to 20hp.

Other highlights include a new transmission, new hydraulic and cooling system, new premium driver’s seat, separate hydraulic motors for the front and rear axles and constant four-wheel drive automatically regulated for best traction.

Di Loreto

Victorian business Di Loreto Farm Machinery showcased some of its horticulture specific machinery during the trade show.

Due to celebrate its 50th anniversary next year, Di Loreto highlighted products from one of the brands it imports - Sfoggia Agricultural Division.

One machine on show from the Italian manufacturer was its Florida semi-automatic transplanter.

Suitable for everything from lettuce to tomato plants, it is equipped with an equaliser that ensures an exact working depth even on irregular soils.

Fendt’s 728 Vario Gen7

John Deere 5105MH tractor

Kubota’s M9540 tractor with a VP1400 vegetable planter attached

The Prospr autonomous vehicle, manufactured by New Zealand’s Robotics Plus

Fun fest

Another successful staging of FarmFest featured a wide selection of agricultural machinery, including many new products

Thousands of visitors flocked through the gates as FarmFest returned to Toowoomba for another year.

Queensland’s largest field day was held between June 4-6 and attracted another big crowd which was keen to check out the wide selection of machinery, technology and agricultural products on display.

Exhibitors were kept busy by the solid crowds on all three days and reported strong sales and enquiries throughout the event.

There was also a buoyant mood amongst much of the crowd on the final day of FarmFest, thanks to Queensland’s win in the first State of Origin match the night before.

Next year promises to be an exciting FarmFest, with the event to celebrate its 50th staging.

Here is a selection of what was on display throughout the site this year:

Rata Equipment

Along with different models of its popular Power Claw, the 304 Panerazer subsoil aerator was also part of Rata Equipment’s display.

Designed for use with tractors over 120hp or in environments with particularly heavy soil, the 304 Panerazer features the durability which Rata’s machines are renowned for.

A V-frame design allows for improved fuel and power efficiencies, while a maximum working depth of 450mm means

this subsoil aerator can be relied upon for tough jobs.

It is also available in the choice of five, seven or nine legs depending on the working width required.

Clark Equipment

Tractors from two of its major brands – McCormick and Bobcat – featured at distributor Clark Equipment’s stand.

One of the McCormick tractors on show was the X8.680, a top-end model offering 310hp and which only arrived in Australia two years ago.

This powerful unit also has a 6.7-litre, six-cylinder Iveco engine, VT-Drive fourstage continuously variable transmission and a completely redesigned cabin.

Even newer to Clark’s range is the Bobcat UT6570 tractor, which marks the manufacturer’s first step up from the compact to utility markets.

The 66hp unit is designed for manoeuvrability and sits alongside the 76hp UT6580 as new offerings by Bobcat and Clark.

Crowds during day two of this year’s FarmFest

Images: Prime Creative Media.

Rata’s 304 Panerazer subsoil aerator

Clark Equipment’s new Bobcat UT6570 tractor

STRAP TEXT EVENT NEWS

Brisbane Mini Excavator Sales

At the start of 2024, Brisbane Mini Excavator Sales declared it would be the year of the Hercules.

Its FarmFest stand was evidence of this, showcasing a selection of the new Hercules machinery it has added to its range along with many previous favourites.

One of the new machines on display was the Hercules HG140 motor grader, which is an 18-tonne machine with a 180hp engine, 14-foot blade and hydraulic rear rippers.

Popular models within its loader range such as the HD656D and HD658D were also on display among the sea of yellow and orange.

JCB

Along with tractors and telehandlers, JCB also displayed a selection of its wheel loaders at FarmFest.

Represented by local dealer Wideland Group, one loader model on display was the 426ZX, which offers a 155hp engine, 2.1 cubic metre bucket capacity and 12,740kg operating weight.

JCB says its wheeled loader range is about big power and torque, a high powerto-weight ratio and top-notch reliability while maintaining excellent traction and low maintenance requirements.

United Heavy Industries

Tractors formed part of UHI’s display, along with other machinery such as wheel loaders.

One tractor model shown was the UHI454, which was the first tractor the brand introduced to the local market in 2022.

The UHI454 now sits at the smaller end

of UHI’s expanded range, offering a 45hp engine and 1,870kg machine weight.

All UHI tractors are sold with either three or seven attachments included in the purchase price as standard.

Waringa Distribution

A selection of products imported by Western Australia-based Waringa Distribution were available for inspection

by the mostly Queensland-based attendees.

One of these was the Agri-Spread AS2150T precision spreader.

This has a 15 cubic metre capacity and is suitable for lime and fertiliser spreading.

Another product on display was the 41 tonne Haulmaster chaser bin from Elmer’s Manufacturing, which is the largest of three tandem axle models on offer.

John Deere

Deere dealer RDO Equipment’s stand was packed with the manufacturer’s agricultural and construction machinery.

Among the offerings browsed by FarmFest visitors was the 6155M utility tractor.

Powered by a 155hp, 6L six-cylinder engine, the tractor delivers solid power in challenging conditions and is ideal for the likes of cattle farmers and cropping.

A longer 2.765m wheelbase features on this tractor, as does mechanical cab suspension.

Rapid Spray

Based in New South Wales, Rapid Spray offers a variety of products to help with spraying and liquid cartage needs.

The depth of its product range was on show at FarmFest, with everything from handheld sprayers through to water trailers featuring.

Brisbane Mini Excavator Sales’ Hercules HG140 motor grader

JCB 426ZX wheel loader

UHI454 tractor

AIE Group 2024 Caterpillar

305.5 GC excavator

RDO Equipment’s John Deere 6155M utility tractor

Waringa Distribution’s Elmer Manufacturing 41 tonne Haulmaster chaser bin

AIE Group also showed a 1986 Caterpillar D7H XL crawler dozer

The eye-catching Kuhn SB 1290 iD square baler

Waringa Distribution’s Agri-Spread AS2150T precision spreader

It also showed how Rapid Spray’s products work in tandem, with one popular exhibit being a Marshal water trailer paired with an Aqua-V portable water cartage tank.

Its products are backed by a strong nationwide network of more than 1,500 dealers.

Kuhn

The SB 1290 iD square baler from manufacturer Kuhn was an eye-catcher, the high-density unit designed to produce bales in all crop conditions.

It creates 120cm x 90cm bales with up to 25 per cent higher bale density in tough dry straw conditions, according to the manufacturer.

This is due to Kuhn’s patented Twinpact double plunger system, which requires twice the force of a conventional baler and divides impact into two steps, increasing the applied force and bale compaction.

AIE Group

The full scope of what Australian International Equipment Group offers was on display for FarmFest visitors to see.

AIE Group is a nationwide distributor of new and pre-owned equipment for the farming and earthmoving sectors, with its headquarters in Toowoomba.

One new machine on display was a 2024 Caterpillar 305.5 GC excavator, while a 1986 Caterpillar D7H XL crawler dozer was also showcased.

This unit has been professionally fully rebuilt from the ground up with all new components by fellow Queensland business Dixie Holdings.

McCormack

Based just out of Toowoomba,

Toowoomba-based Tilco’s folding Hydramax ripper

McCormack brush puller attachment for most models of tractor

Rapid Spray’s Aqua-V portable water cartage tank

McCormack Industries did not need to travel far to showcase its wares.

As specialists in front end loaders, McCormack not only had the machines themselves on display but a selection of attachments it manufactures.

One popular choice at FarmFest was the brush puller, designed to clear land of lantana, box thorn, lime bush and other similar plants.

This Australian-made product features two hydraulic cylinders to actuate independent grab arms and provide extra gripping power, while the product is suitable for most models of tractor, telehandler and loader.

Tilco

Another Toowoomba based business, Tilco, has started 2024 with a rebrand which was on show.

New staff along with a freshen up of its product line, including a change to charcoal colouring, are among the changes.

Everything from small hobby farm ploughs to 12m folding Hydramax rippers were on display.

These Australian-made products are designed to cover all tillage needs while being engineered for local conditions.

Mahindra

Queensland dealer Lockyer Farm Machinery had a selection of Mahindra tractors prominent at its stand.

Among its range was the 7590 4WD

ROPS unit, which offers a 92hp engine. This places it at the top end of Mahindra’s selection in terms of power and was displayed with an ML485 loader attached. The loader can be easily installed and removed with just two pins, while a quick hitch design enables quick and easy switching between implements such as buckets and bale spikes.

AT WORK

Shantui SD34-B3 or SD34-C3 bulldozer

39,980kg bulldozer with Cummins NTA855 257kw (345hp) 2000rpm or Weichai 258kW (346hp) 2000rpm Tier 3 engine, 3 forward / 3 reverse transmission, semi U blade, single or three shank ripper, 560mm track shoes and full length track guards, air-conditioned integrated ROPS/FOPS cabin with suspension seat and radio.

Shantui DH46-C3 hydrostatic bulldozer

59,728kg bulldozer with Cummins QSX15 380kw (510hp) 1800rpm Tier 3 engine with economy mode, full hydrostatic transmission, semi U blade, single shank ripper, 610mm track shoes, bogie bottom rollers, air-conditioned interated ROPS/FOPS tilt cabin with suspension seat and radio.

Lockyer Farm Machinery’s Mahindra 7590 4WD tractor

Events Calendar

Here are upcoming field day and agricultural events for 2024. Information was current as of going to press.

Mudgee Small Farm Field Days – Mudgee, NSW

The Mudgee Small Farm Field Days has been running for over 40 years and attracts approximately 20,000 people per year. With the mission to inform, educate and connect rural people with information and solution providers there are free demonstrations and talks along with commercial stalls, live music and activities to suit the whole family. When: July 12-13, 2024

More info: mudgeefielddays.com.au

Tractor and Machinery Association conference –Melbourne, Vic

This year’s Tractor and Machinery Association conference will be held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Continuing the theme of Towards 2030, the conference will feature an exciting line-up of speakers on critical industry issues such as AI in agriculture, attracting women to the workplace, effective marketing strategies, personal financial planning and more. When: July 18, 2024

More info: www.tma.asn.au

Australian Sheep and Wool Show – Bendigo, Vic

The Australian Sheep and Wool Show is your one stop shop for all things sheep. More than 2,700 sheep and 30,000 people assemble in Bendigo for three days in July for largest show of its type in the world. When: July 19–21, 2024

More info: www.sheepshow.com

Sheep Connect – Hamilton, Vic

Sheepvention Rural Expo has a sheep show and ram sales, an innovations hub, ag competitions, trade exhibits and other entertainment and produce.

When: August 4-5, 2024

More info: hamiltonshowgrounds.com. au

Royal Queensland ShowBrisbane, Qld

The Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) is Queensland’s largest annual event, attracting on average 400,000 people. The Ekka showcases the best of Queensland, attracting more than 21,000 competition entries from woodchop to giant vegetables, 10,000 animals from beef cattle to cats and dogs, world-class live entertainment, award-winning food and wine, carnival rides and showbags, family shopping, educational activities and much more.

When: August 10-18, 2024

More info: www.ekka.com.au

AgQuip Field Days - Gunnedah, NSW

Arguably one of the biggest field days on the Australian calendar, AgQuip has been supporting the agriculture world from its permanent, purpose-built site just outside of Gunnedah, NSW since 1973. Attracting more than 100,000 visitors each year and showcasing over 3,000 products, AgQuip has proven to be a much-anticipated event for exhibitors and attendees alike.

When: August 20-22, 2024

More info: acmruralevents.com.au/ agquip

Dowerin Machinery Field Days - Dowerin, WA

Dowerin Machinery Field Days is the largest field day in Western Australia, attracting more than 25,000 visitors each year. Around 7,000 broadacre farmers attend the event each year and over half of all visitors stated their reason for attending was a strong interest in agricultural products and services. The Field Days has also won several tourism awards at a state and national level.

When: August 28-29, 2024

More info: dowerinfielddays.com.au

Agrishow Small Farms and Field Day Expo - Moss Vale, NSW

More than a line-up of products for sale, the AgriShow Small Farms & Field Day Expo is a space for people involved in all aspects of farming to get together in a community atmosphere. The event features education and demonstrations of farming machinery, tools, equipment and supplies from tractors and other vehicles, to equipment and technology, so that visitors can get more from the event.

When: August 30-31, 2024

More info: www.agrishow.com.au

Royal Adelaide ShowWayville, SA

Established in 1839, the Royal Adelaide Show is now South Australia’s largest ticketed event. Attracting on average around 500,000 people, the Royal Adelaide Show hosts more than 450 exhibitor stands and offers businesses a once-a-year opportunity to expand into new markets, boost revenue and significantly increase brand awareness.

When: August 31-September 8, 2024

More info: www.theshow.com.au

Newdegate Machinery Field Days - Newdegate, WA

Tthe Newdegate Machinery Field Days is one of Western Australia’s premier agricultural events. Machinery, technology and research, animals and livestock, outdoor and camping exhibits, art and photography, fashion, show bags, food and wine, local produce, live entertainment and more make this a two day event not to missed.

When: September 4-5, 2024

More info: newdegatemachineryfielddays.com

Berry Small Farm Field Days –Berry, NSW

Held at one of the most attractive showgrounds in NSW, the Berry Small Farm Field Days is one of the cutest field days on the Australian calendar. With equipment and machinery displays, demonstrations and farm animals galore, this is an event for everyone. When: September 6-7, 2024

More info: berryrotary.org.au/ small-farm-field-day

AgQuip is always a highlight of the Australian field day calendar

Extra choice

Case IH unveiled a new tractor configuration at FarmFest, with the offer of a new version of its popular Puma range of tractors

Case IH has given its Puma customers more choice after debuting a new configuration without the “bells and whistles” of other variations, but still with several important upgrades.

The new configuration is Tier 3, removing the need for AdBlue, with the first model shown to the Australian public at FarmFest in Toowoomba last month.

Earlier this year, Case IH announced its AFS Connect technology would be added to the Puma range, debuting that upgrade at Melbourne’s FutureAg expo.

The current upgrades relate to the nonAFS Connect version of the Puma, which Case IH product specialist Damien Wirth says appeals to customers who want the Puma’s features and size without its extra technology.

CASEIH9230

**HeaderOnly** Cursor13Tier2 4speedhydrotrans 12,300Lgraintank AFSPro700 Mavchopperspreader 600/70R28steertyres 620/70R42driveduals Chaffdecknotincluded.102825. TA1178603. $258,500 MASSEYFERGUSON 8S.225 2022,AgcoPower6Cyl/7Litre 225HPEngineHours:360 Dyna-7Semi-Powershift RearBarAxle-250KGeach wheelweights 3PL-4remotes-PowerBeyond Frontweights-12@55kgeach MFGuide-AutoSteeringSystem. 102875.TA1220373. $269,500 HARDI7036 COMMANDER 7000LTank 36mForceBoomw/-Boom wheels,60LGranniPotw/-Direct ChemicalSuction,6SectionFTZ ForceBoom,EFC6Sectionswith JohnDeereRateController HydraulicDrivePump 3"BanjoFreshWaterFill. 102847.TA1220366.

“These are a good and basic tractor for someone who wants something easy and simple to use,” he says.

“It doesn’t have all the bells and whistles that a customer may not want or require.

“It has still got the classic cabin, still got the power shift and doesn’t come with any GPS systems in from the factory.”

Case IH says this model appeals to a different sector of the market.

Despite not featuring the advanced technology offered by AFS Connect such as telematics, data transfer and remote monitoring, the new Puma does feature several upgrades on the previous Tier 3 Puma configuration to enhance the user experience.

“The standard, non-AFS Connect Tier 3

NEWHOLLANDCR7090 2018,HEADERONLY TwinRotorHeader FPTCursor,449MaxHPEngine EngHours:1198-SepHours:878 4speedhydrostatictransmission StrawChopperspreader 11,500Lgraintank Dual620/70R42Fronttyres80% 620/70R26Reartyres80% .102880.TA1220371. $454,960 CLAASLEXION770TT 2013,EngHours:3241.47-Sep Hours:2313.88 AutoContourcutterbarcontrol Contour,Chain,CruisePilot Graintank-12,500L Graintankunloadingtube3XL TerraTracDiveaxleL Cemosautomatic-selfcleaning 2011MacdonFD7045'Front. 102826-102827.TA1220367. $352,000

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version now has got a better power and a better torque than what the previous Tier 3 version did,” Wirth says.

“We’ve gone to an upgraded architecture and now have 33 per cent more room inside the cabin without actually increasing the physical size outside the cabin.

“Having more room inside just gives more manoeuvrability and also allowed us to put a different seat in there and give a little bit more comfort.

“It’s exciting that we’ve been able to still maintain that that Tier 3 spec in something that’s a little bit better for the customers.”

Three different levels of specification will be available in the new Tier 3 Puma version, with customers now able to place orders through Case IH’s dealer network.

GLEANERR75

6CylinderCummins330HP

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Path planner

John Deere’s AutoPath (Boundaries) will give farmers

to adjust guidance plans, the company says

The latest update to John Deere’s Operations Center will enable users of the data management system to create guidance plans for equipment in three easy steps, the manufacturer says.

John Deere precision agriculture marketing manager Max Cusack says the AutoPath (boundaries) update will let farmers create path plans with no source operation or implement-mounted StarFire receiver required on their machinery.

Instead, once a farmer selects a driven field boundary or existing guidance line, a headland size and an offset type, the AutoPath will automatically create guidance tracks and send that directly to a unit’s guidance display before work begins.

Cusack says that by using the system, operators can set up and preview full-field guidance plans online using Operations

Center or create plans from the seat of the cab once they arrive in the field.

“It provides farmers with the flexibility to adjust guidance plans that were created online directly within their G5 or Gen 4 display, without having to go back into Operations Center to alter the plan,” he says.

In-field guidance tracks can be modified using one of the three track-generation methods – heading angle, align to boundary, or from an existing track. It can also be modified by shifting tracks north/south/ east/west (in-field tracks) or inward/outward (headland tracks).

The AutoPath ‘align to boundary’ track generation method identifies the best starting point to begin field work, ensure the perfect first pass, eliminate gaps and minimise overlaps – the company says.

John Deere says AutoPath can create

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150XCcombination roundbalerwrapper,one owner,lowbalecount.In excellentcondition.S45.

TA1103402. POA

AutoPath can help farmers create path plans in three easy steps. Image: John Deere

a single plan for each of the zones for the entire season, applying the same settings to the entire field.

Cusack adds that operators can take advantage of the path planning tool to leverage existing guidance lines and previous Controlled Traffic Farming investment.

“We particularly love that customers can use their existing guidance lines, while capturing the full benefits of AutoPath and its planning functionality. This is going to be a great feature for our small grains customers and one we have been waiting for,” he says.

The AutoPath system is one of a series of updates to the John Deere Operations Center, with new adjustments also made to the AutoTrac turn automation system.

Upgrades include a new scale for turn size adjustments and an automated skip turn recommendation feature that detects where improvements can be made in turn quality, based on track spacing, turn capabilities and headline size.

Deere has also made improvements to in-field data sharing and is also enabling Gen 4 and G5 display users to record why a machine has been left idling.

HARDICOMMANDER

10000LTR

45maluminiumboom isobus,oneowner,in excellentcondition,will beworkshopserviced. S47. TA1174680. POA

New addition

Croplands has joined forces with American manufacturer RBR Enterprise to distribute a new selfpropelled sprayer

C roplands has become the exclusive distributor for RBR Enterprise sprayers, showcasing the first unit at FarmFest last month.

B ased in the American state of Mississippi, RBR Enterprise has introduced its Vortex sprayer to the Australian market.

Powered by a 9L Cummins engine delivering up to 430hp, the Vortex is available with tank capacities up to 9,400L.

Versatile boom options are also available, including a 36m aluminium boom, while the Vortex also offers a fully mechanical drive train, robust four-wheel drive and strong road speed to ensure it performs well across all terrain.

“Croplands is really excited to bring this proven large scale self-propelled sprayer to the Australian broadacre market,” C roplands national sales manager Jeremy Rennick says.

“We are hearing great feedback from growers who have demoed the unit that

they appreciate the large volume tank, 80km/h road speed and the simplicity of the mechanical drive.

“Customers will also be excited to know there is a split tank spot spray ready option available for those requiring an all-in-one solution for their broadacre spraying needs.”

RBR chief operating officer Jason Eaton says the manufacturer is “extremely excited to partner with a well-established dealer network” in Croplands.

The Vortex will continue being showcased at field days across Australia in the coming months, including at AgQuip and Dowerin.

Croplands will distribute the RBR Enterprise Vortex sprayer. Image: Croplands

The Vortex sprayer was first shown at FarmFest. Image: Prime Creative Media

Bigger network

Three Rivers Machinery has expanded into the New South Wales city of Dubbo after assuming ownership of Geronimo Farm Equipment’s local franchise.

This move creates a fourth location for Three Rivers, in addition to its existing dealerships in Warren, Narromine and Gilgandra.

As well as taking over the New Holland franchise in Dubbo, Three Rivers will also showcase a wide selection of CNH Industrial brands at all four of its dealerships; including Case IH, New Holland, CASE Construction Equipment, K-Line Ag, FlexiCoil and Horwood Bagshaw.

It comes as John and Bronwyn Plunkett celebrate 40 years in business, with eldest

daughter Ruth leading the Three Rivers team.

John, who is dealer-principal, says adding the Dubbo location and increasing the product offering will be a win for customers throughout the region.

“Offering a more diverse range of products under the CNH banner means we’re providing a more complete sales, parts and service solution for the customer base,” he says.

“Our region is a mixture of broadacre, irrigation and mixed farms, including livestock. Making the whole CNH range available means we can meet whatever requirements our customers have across the Central West region.

“As a small business, the alignment of the CNH brands provides us with the economies of scale for sustainability,” he says.

“Our service technicians are CNH trained on both Case IH and New Holland equipment, with technicians and workshops at all four locations, as well as technicians available for on-farm service work.”

CNH’s agriculture business director

Aaron Bett agrees that Central West NSW farmers will be in good hands, thanks to the experience of Three Rivers.

“John, Bronwyn and Ruth’s years of experience in the agricultural machinery industry guarantees the ultimate experience for every farmer for all CNH product and service needs,” he says.

“The family has deep, generational roots in the farming community and they truly understand their customer’s diverse requirements across the region.

“The addition of the New Holland range to the full range of Case IH products across Three Rivers’ four locations means the region’s farmers are the big winners.”

Rocky River Ag Services

Three Rivers Machinery has taken over Geronimo Farm Equipment in Dubbo. Picture: New Holland

New South Wales dealership Three Rivers Machinery has added a new location and will showcase more CNH

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$24,000INCLGST

$11,650INCLGST

NOBILINOBILI/SILVANVKD230FLAILMOWER sideshiftto therightwithhydraulicsideshift&heightcontrolisbyan adjustablefullwidthroller,withnewspareblades&bolts,3 pointlinkage.7250. TA1184478.

$37,000

JCB3CXBACKHOELOADER,4CYLINDERDIESEL approx.

$39,000INCLGST

NEWHOLLANDTN55DTRACTORWITHBURDERFRONTEND LOADER 4in1bucket,4wheeldrive,3cylinderdiesel, with remotes,aircab,approx.1,466hours,newlugtyres all round,60horsepowerapprox.7249. TA1182872.

$11,950INCL GST

100cfm,gaugesworking,exCouncil,999hoursasindicated &working,doeseverythingitissupposedtodo.7318. TA1219894.

ATLASCOPCOXAS40DDCOMPRESSOR deutztwin diesel,

$18,000INCL GST

KomatsuFD45T-5 Forklift, hydraulicsideshift,approximately6.275 tonne, specificationsattached,goodoriginalmachine,diesel,2,600 genuinehours.7308. TA1209335.

KOMATSUFD45T-5FORKLIFT

JohnDeere315CBackhoe,4 cylinderdiesel.7314. TA1217240.

JOHNDEERE315CBACKHOE

$18,250INCLGST

cylinderdiesel,2xbuckets:-450mmGP,900mmtilting mud bucket,SWL65kg,folddownrollframe,hydraulictrack adjustment,newrubbertracks,excellentcondition.7062. TA1121629.

LoaderwithForks,Rops,Roof,Windscreen,72 horsepower approximately,immaculate,approximately5,280 hours. 7122. TA1155052.

FORD5610TRACTOR Ford5610Tractor,4x4,FrontEnd

$3,750INCLGST

16PlateDiscCultivator,sealedbearings.3pointlinkage, scallopeddiscs,goodorder.7331. TA1223439.

KUBOTAK008-3MINIEXCAVATOR 1,800 hrs approx,3

SAMEDELFINO35TRACTOR SameDelfino35Tractor,4 wheeldrive,3pointlinkage,approximately35 horsepower.

$11,900INCLGST

KUBOTAL405TRACTOR diesel,4wheeldrive, power steering,3pointlinkage,rollframe&roof,double clutch, approximately38horsepower,goodworkingorder,as traded,asis.7301. TA1200484.

JOHNBERENDS16PLATEDISCCULTIVATOR John Berends

row seeders,linkage&trailed,super& seedboxes,readytogo.7107. TA1141898. POA CASE3230TRACTORFRONTENDLOADERFORKS& BUCKET 4wheeldrive,QuickReleasefrontendloader,forks &bucket,rollframe&roof,approximately1,600hours/60 horsepower,immaculate,withbooks.7262. TA1190218.

2TONNE

FARM MASTER HAMMERMILL MIXER

COACHLAND

HARDI

BRIDGESTONETYRE Used2x 9.5-24tyresandrims.Also available2x14.9-28tyres andrims,...VIC. DIY1225784. 0418 127 216. $4,400

KUBOTAL3800HD 2022, Hydrostaticdrive 169hrs

ChallengeFrontendloader4 in1

LandPrideGraderplane 3point tow hitch

Industrialtyres

Excellentcondition Nopay ID, 1234567890.NSW. DIY1222134. 0414 750 841. $37,500

JOHNDEERE6410 1998 model.3950hrs.105hp.2nd owner.Sellingdueto upgrade.Mechanicallyok, 1.06410V220502.QLD. DIY1223934. 0413 120 212. $35,000

JOHNSHEARERCOULTER TYNEDRILL 16run,verygood condition,convertedfrom3PL totrailing,newflutedrollers, newsetofcoulter'sfrom JohnShearerendof23 seasonstillinpallet(6Kfor coultersalone)3640mmwide (wheeltowheel)185mmtyne spacingbakerboots,164000. NSW. DIY1221917. 0488 909 085. $19,800

KLIMAKLIMAGEN2PRUNING SYSTEM 2019,forsustainable spurandcanepruning. Suitableforsmalltractors,

OTHERROTOWIPER 3.2mtr, TrailingWeedwiper.50mm standardballhitch.Excellent workingcondition,7368. NSW. DIY1222546. 0414 862 377. $5,800

JOHNDEERE5075E CAB 2022,Ingreatcondition,193 hours,2ndowner,air conditionedcabin.Also includesXSSloader,Cosmo bullymulcher,palletforks, assortedbracketsand manuals., 1PY5075ETNE615956.QLD. DIY1221446. 0414 692 806. $75,000

ABBEYVF2000SD 2023, 22m3AbbeyCattleFeed Mixer.Includes3.2mPVCBelt Elevator. H/D8mmthickHardoxwall Lining.H/D20mmthick flooring.HydCabcontrolsfor dischargedoors,INSTOCK. QLD. DIY1216104. 1300 230 492. $148,500

DAKENSL4051.5 2021, slasher.approximately10 hoursuse.Excellent condition,926.NSW. DIY1209701. 0458 173 525. $2,500ONO

KINGHITTERSERIES2I This Sidemountedpostdriver makesfencingquickand easyinallconditions. www.au.kinghitter.com, S2i360. VIC. DIY1206314. 03 7044 1940. $25,602

KUBOTAM7171 2020,170Hp.Excellentcondition CallRudi,3HL0231.QLD. DIY1222544. 0427 032 845. $165,000

JOHNDEERE9570R 2019,Hours:889.3,HP570.Excellentcondition withLowHours.GreenStarGPSequipped. Rearwheels1374K/g,Front1800K/g,Rear611 K/g,5Slice rear hydraulics, 1RW9570RTKP062530. OV. DIY1222368. 02 1318 450. $700,000

WANTED TO BUY TRACTORS FOR

CASE

585, 595, 685, 695, 800, 830, 832, 870 2WD, 885, 895, 900, 930, 932, 956, 970, 1030, 1032, 1070, 1194, 1270, 1370, 1390, 1394, 1594, 1690, 2090, 2094, 2096, 2290, 2290, 2294, 2390, 2394, 2470, 2590, 2594, 2670, 2870, 3394, 3594, 4230, 4496, 4694, 4994, 7110, 7210, CVX 170, CX60, MAGNUM 275, MAGNUM 290, MAGNUM 305, MX80C, MX255, MX285, PUMA, STX 375 QUADTRACK, STX425, STX440 QUADTRACK, STX450, STX485, STX500

CASE IH

1896, 4690, 4890, 4894, 5120, 5130, 5140, 5150, 7120, 7130, 7140, 7150, 7220, 7230, 7240, 7250, 8910, 8920, 8930, 8940, 8950, 9130, 9150, 9170, 9180, 9250, 9260, 9280, 9350, 9370 QUADTRACK, 9380 QUADTRACK, 9390, MX90, MX130, MX135, MX150, MX230, MX240, MX200, MX220, MXM175, MX270, MXM190, STX375, STX440, STX480

CATERPILLAR

CHALLENGER SERIES – 35, 45, 55, 65, 65C, 75, 75C, 75E, 85C, 85D, 95E, 65E TRACK MACHINE, MT765D, MT765C, MT865C

FORD

3000, 3610, 4000, 4600, 4610, 5000, 5610, 5640, 6000, 6600, 6610, 6700, 6810, 7000, 7600, 7700, 7710, 7840, 8000, 8210, 8230, 8340, 8401, 8600, 8700, 9000, 9600, 9700,, TW5, TW10, TW15, TW20, TW25, TW30

INTERNATIONAL

385, 414, 434, 444, 484, 514, 554, 564, 574, 585, 624, 660, 674, 686, 696, 706, 756,766, 786, 856, 866, 885, 886, 956, 976, 986, 1056, 1066, 1086, 1256, 1466, 1468, 1486, 1566, 1568, 1586, 3288, 3388, 3588, 3688, 3788, 4166, 4186, 4366, 4386, 4568, 4586, 4786, 5088, 5288, 5488, 6388, 6588, 6788, 844S, AW6, AW7, AWD6, AWD7, B250, B275, W6, W7,

JOHN DEERE

950, 1050, 1130, 1140, 1640, 1750, 2010, 2020, 2030, 2040, 2120, 2130, 2140, 2250, 2450, 2650, 2850, 3010, 3020, 3120, 3130, 3140, 3350, 3640, 3650, 4010, 4020, 4030, 4040, 4050, 4055, 4230, 4240, 4250, 4255, 4430, 4440, 4450, 4455, 4555, 4560, 4620, 4630, 4640, 4650, 4755, 4760, 4840, 4850, 4955, 4960, 5010, 5020, 5310, 5515, 5300, 6030, 6110, 6170R, 6200, 6220, 6300, 6310, 6320, 6330, 6400, 6410, 6620, 6630 Premium, 6810, 6820, 7210, 7330, 7510, 7520, 7600, 7610, 7700, 7800, 7810, 7920, 7930, 8100, 8200, 8285R, 8300, 8310, 8330, 8345RT, 8360RT, 8370RT, 8400, 8400 TRACK, 8410, 8430, 8440, 8450, 8520, 8520T, 8530, 8630, 8640, 8650, 8760, 8770, 8850, 8960, 8970, 9400, 9410R, 9420T, 9430T

NEW HOLLAND

7840, 8430, 8560, 8870, 8970, 9482, 9682, 9860, 9880, 9882, 9482, 9484, G210, G240, L85, L95, T6020, T7030, TG230, TG235, TG255, TG285, TJ375, TJ425, TJ450, TL70, TL90, TM125, TM135, TM195, TN55D, TN95F, TS100, TS100A, TS110A, TS125A, T9060

STEIGER

KP525, KP 1350, KP1325, KP1400, BEARCAT 3 & 4, COUGAR 2 & 4 CM250, PANTHER 2, PANTHER 3 ST310 & ST325, PANTHER 4 CM325, TIGER ST470,

VERSATILE

500, 700, 800, 835, 836, 855, 875, 895, 900, 935, 945, 946, 950, 956, 975, 976, 1150, 1156

ALSO WRECKING

VARIOUS MODELS OF CHAMBERLAIN, DEUTZ FAHR, FIAT, JCB, LAMBORGHINI, MASSEY FERGUSON, MCCORMICK, SAME – CALL US TO ENQUIRE

Image: Stephen Coburn/ Shutterstock

HYSTERH16.00XM-6 2010,lowhoursandin greatconditionwithMichelinXZMradialtyres, forkpositioningsideshiftand2,440mmForks. R3525. TA730601.

ForSaleorHirePOAPh:1800688788to Inspect

HYSTERH12.00XM 200811,740kg4500mm lift,sideshiftcarriageand2440mmforks.Hire orBuyFreeCall1800688788.R3405. TA369982. POA

HYSTERH18.00XM-12 withforkpositioning sideshiftcarriage,2440mmforks,Cummins engine,fullyenclosedairconditionedcabOption20x40sideliftcont.frame.R3632. TA1124211. POAForSaleorHirePh:1800688788

KALMARDRT450-65S 2013,Stacksladen 20x40containers5high.CumminsQSM11 dieselengine.Dana15.5HR36000XMSN. H10300280. TA1153805.

ForSaleorHirePOAFreeCall1800688788

OMEGA16-12W Idealfurnitureremovalist solutionRated12,000kgwithELME558 sidesliftabletostackuptofourhigh20and40 footcontainers..353AUFL443. TA1154000. ForSaleorHirePOAFreeCall1800688788

ISOLOADER21RubberTyreStraddleCarrier LoadUnloadandTravelwith32t20'andor27t 40'containers.Lowcostlightweight containerhandlerideal for lessrobust pavementorgoodhardstand.S113. TA1222701. POA

HYSTERH18.00XM-12 2008,stacks12,000kg highcube20'&40'3high.ELME55820x40 spreaderwithtopentrytwistlocks.Frontline unitreadynow.R3547. TA829125.

ForSaleorHirePOAFreeCall1800688788

ISOLOADERHL-PC-35 2006,Two(2) ISOLOADERPrecastConcreteHandling RubberTyreGantriesbuyoneorboth for tandemliftandtraveleachwithSWL 35,000kg.R3696R3697. TA1222670. POA

HYSTERH650C 6newContinentaltyres, Cummins6CTenginethisbudgetpriced forkliftisready for work.Option20'or20x40 toppickcontainerspreaders..R3712. TA1216675. ForSaleorHirePh1800688788POA

HYSTERH10.00XM 2006,Cumminsengine. WideForkPositioningSideshiftCarriage wouldsuitlongloadse.g.pipe.R3689. TA1216676. POAForSaleorHirePh:1800688788

KALMARDRT450 2014,SOLD-Another Available.Only11081hourswithoriginal Cumminsengine.Stack45,000kg1strow 31,000kg2ndrow.ReadyNow.R3603. TA998021. POAForSaleorHirePh:1800688788

PRENTICE7,000KGSWL forklifttruckramps (8)topickfrom.Ideal for shippingcontainers. Forsaleorhire.R3274. TA96974. $12,000+GST=$13,200ForSaleorHire

Sprightly unit

In the rst of our series on forkli maintenance and safety, we look at cracking and corrosion in older equipment.

Speaking at the Workplace Health and Safety Show in May, Crown Equipment general manager – product development Mike Croxford said metal fatigue can be caused by either the machine’s age or wear and tear caused by its operating environment.

“The rst sign of metal fatigue is usually you get cracks that start to grow in welds in structural areas, and they would tend to be on your mast mounts, your drivetrain mounts in your chassis, and can be in other areas that are loaded depending on the types of fork trucks,” he said.

“If you have a cracked weld, it may be feasible to repair it, and usually that repair would involve grinding the weld out and providing a preparation so you can do a full penetration weld to get the original strength back in the structural joint.”

Repairing a crack in this way is usually feasible if the crack remains solely within a weld, he said.

“Where you have a crack that’s penetrated through the parent metal that the weld is supporting, that’s when you need to have a structural assessment,” he said.

It may be possible to stop a crack in the parent metal by using a method like the “end drill” method, where a hole is drilled through the parent metal at the end (or tip) of the crack.

“A crack can be fatal [for the equipment] if it’s penetrated into the system so far that you cannot make a repair where you can guarantee the safety of the equipment.”

These include protective structures like overhead guards, which can never have the integrity of the original when repaired – as the standard to which they are tested is a destructive one that cannot be replicated.

“What we usually recommend with customers when they are looking at the condition of older equipment is to clean down the truck, remove the paint and do an initial inspection of the weld through

something like a dye penetrant test to identify any infantile cracks or any surface cracks,” he said.

“If you nd cracks, it’s worthwhile to follow that up with a more rigorous approach, whether it be through a mag particle test, through an X ray or something similar, where you can see the depth of penetration of cracks.”

Croxford said when these issues are found the best rst step is to consult the manufacturer.

“If the manufacturer is no longer in the marketplace, then you would really need to speak to a strucutral engineer to determine what is appropriate as a repair”.

Assessing levels of corrosion on the vehicle, as well as what types of treatments might be available, is also key to safe operation, he added.

“It may be that you need to talk to a corrosion expert about how you can mitigate further corrosion, and if you can do any treatments to repair where there’s signi cant corrosion,” he said.

Moving parts such as li chains and mast tilting systems were also prone to corrosion – needing lubricant to get into pins and threaded connections.

“If they’re not maintained correctly, they will rust and get frozen joints. Some manufacturers will provide rubber boots that will protect the tilt cylinders, and I would encourage you, if they’re available, to t those.”

Where equipment sits unused for long stretches, careful storage is key to ensuring they remain in good condition, Croxford added.

“Some things to consider are if you need to put it up on chocks so that you don’t get at spots and damage to your wheels, if you need to ush and replace all the uids in the truck, if you need to grease all the chains and the slides to prevent incidental corrosion while it’s stored. Consideration should also be given to the battery,” he said.

The amber-coloured lights are also designed to resist interference from cockatoos.Image: Vailo

Australian lighting manufacturer

Vailo has launched an amber variant of its agship Zenith Gen-V stadium light, for use in areas with sensitive ecosystems.

Vailo engineering and production manager Phil McKenzie says the PC Amber variant will help to minimise the impact of LED lighting on wildlife behaviour and circadian rhythms.

The lights will also meet the illumination needs of humans while, with a di erent light source at 1,000 watts, it will be less attractive to insects than lights with a blue-rich spectrum.

“PC Amber LEDs contribute to biodiversity conservation and sustainable ecosystem management in wildlife-sensitive areas by eliminating blue light while maintaining a broad spectrum of emitted light for e ective outdoor area illumination for human use,” McKenzie said.

The luminaire retains other features of the Zenith Gen-V, including internally-wired components resistant to cockatoo interference, a tempered glass lens with UV protection and an IK09 impact rating, specialised optics, a lightweight design and a powder-coated nish.

VAILO CEO and Founder Aaron Hickmann said the company was excited to launch the new product, which he said had been developed for the Australian lifestyle.

“The Zenith Gen-V PC Amber is a high-performance oodlight suitable for sports elds, roads and tunnels, mining areas, airports and more. We look forward to seeing it installed across the country,” he said.

Appropriate repair of cracks and checking of corrosion will help ensure longevity of equipment. Image: Stephen Coburn/Shutterstock

1.5TonneElectricReach.

2.5TonneBrandNewManual.PALLETJACK. DPLIn53187. $523

2.5TonneLPGForkliftWith4.59MetreLift ClearviewMast..P040. TA1207778. $13,200

EnforcerWalkie-ElectricTowTug(NO42).NO42. TA1198251. $5,500

2.5TonneLPGForkliftwith4.3MetreLift ContainerMast.P003. TA1206087. $13,200

HysterLPGForkliftsForHire! AsLittleas$100+GSTPerWeek!.D017. TA644792. $110

1.2tonneelectricwalkiereachtruckwith4.27 metrelift.N054. TA1178245. $13,200

viper. TA1160389. $21,450

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ALLISCHALMERSHD16DP JustinforDismantling,Semi UBullBlade,SwivelTynePacificRippers,Good Undercarriage,SweetRunning16,000HEngine, PowershiftTransmissionandConverter,AllParts Available,PhoneBrendan-0267624466.S181.

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PHIL HUNT PARTS PHIL HUNT PARTS

The HUNT stops here

NEW AND S/H PARTS

ALLIS-CHALMERS/HANOMAG/MASSEY

JOHN DEERE INDUSTRIAL

PARTS FOR Dozers, Loaders, Drotts, Graders, Scrapers

WRECKING DOZERS

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HANOMAG/MASSEY: 2244, 200, 300, 3366, 400, 500, L400C, L600C, D600D Super, D700C

JOHN DEERE : 1010C, 850 LOADERS

ALLIS-CHALMERS: TL12D, TL14, TL20, 545, 605B, 645, 745B,C FIAT: FR20B

LD3, LD5, LD7 & LD9 Scoopmobile

HANOMAG/MASSEY 22,33C,44, 55, CL55C,66C-D, 77 GRADERS

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AC D17, D19, D21, XT190, 7000, 7010, 7020, 7040, 7060, 7080, 8010, 8050, 8070, 7580, 8550, 440

ALSO AVAILABLE

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ALLISCHALMERSHD11B JustinforDismantling, ExcellentUndercarriageAllRound,SweetStartingand RunningHD516Engine,AllPartsAvailable,Phone Brendan-0267624466.S183. TA1221913. POA

KUBOTA BE READY

WHY CHOOSE DIECI TELEHANDLERS FOR YOUR AGRICULTURAL APPLICATION?

Because there is a Dieci custom engineered Telehandler for each and every farm job.

Max Capacity: 4,000kg

Max Lifting Height: 7.0m

Max Power: 125hp

Max Speed: 40km/h

Equipped with a Powershift transmission, 6 speed manual automatic gearbox, inching pedal control, which guarantees maximum power at all operating speeds, as well as a Zero Shock System, which ensures a high degree of operator comfort, it’s easy to see why the Agri Plus 40.7 is the ideal machine for your agricultural application.

Contact Dieci on 1300 888 479 or visit www.dieciaustralia.com.au