Landscape Contractor January - February 2023

From the editor

Welcome to a new year and another amazing issue of Landscape Contractor Magazine

Summer’s a-blaze as I write this, and in a typically crazy Australian way, while I’m staring at the dry earth and brown, burnt grass on the NSW Mid North Coast, people in western NSW, normally one of the driest places on our continent, are battling floods and road closures as the crazy rain patterns continue.

That creates challenges for anyone working the land, and that includes landscapers. It’s either too wet or too dry to get anything done. But it’s an opportunity for professionalism to come to the fore. Qualified and well-trained practitioners will stand their ground and advise clients forcing ahead with planned works will do more damage and than good. Or, genuine professionals can assess the situation and suggest how work might proceed.

Sometimes politely, but firmly, refusing to carry on with a job, even when there’s a contract at stake, is the mark of serious pro. There’s none of that here at Landscape Contractor Magazine, though. ‘Refuse to work?’

As if!

As I pointed out in the October/November issue, there’s a great deal of support offered by the publisher, and the team already working on the title is a fully committed outfit. All my feeble excuses about why things aren’t done are met with very little sympathy. Around the time you’re reading this we’ll be kicking off our weekly newsletters, and if you haven’t received your first one, shoot

me an e-mail and I’ll make sure you’re on the list. Or you can go to the website to sign up.

Of course, if you have some news to share with Australia’s landscaping community, let me know and we’ll see what we can work out.

All this this hard work takes a bit of time, of course, and I’m lucky the regulars –Jonathan Garner, Anna Turner, John Gabriele and Marc Worner are a lot sharper than me. John Gabriele is so amazing he didn’t even need to send in a story for this issue. He’d already sent in an extra one during 2022 ‘in case we needed it’.

And if the contributors are sharp, the team in the office are like some kind of publishing ninjas!

Geez. Don’t they ever sleep?

The amazing thing is, how lucky am I to be part of a crew as good as that?

I can only hope you folks are surrounded by people who are just as good.

The result is another high-quality magazine which speaks to, and about, a big, active, environmentally responsible industry.

That’s good enough for me.

Tom Foster Editor

The Ring-O-Matic 275 VX on page 32 is ideal for all applications, from putting in fence posts to mid to large landscaping jobs.

JOHN GABRIELE has more than 23 years’ experience in the horticulture industry. He is a member of the Nursery Garden Industry Association and the Horticulture Media Association. John has presented garden talkback radio at ABC 97.3FM and works as head teacher of Horticulture with TAFE NSW Illawarra Institute Yallah Campus.

ANNA TURNER is an expert in landscape construction, estimating and business management, with over 20 years’ experience in the industry, working in both the residential and commercial landscape sectors. Anna recently updated the LNA Rates Book.

JONATHAN GARNER Since 1990, Jonathan has built his reputation as one of the industry’s most skilled gardeners and knowledgeable horticulturists .He provides various horticultural services, including onsite training, industry mentoring, and estate management to landscape contractors, designers, and garden owners. His professional integrity, enthusiasm, and respect from industry peers saw him elected as AIH NSW President for five terms in 2010.

Hitachi excavators are the choice of plumbing specialists, Limcora. 66 78

MARC WORNER started his own business in 1991, armed with a Diploma of Horticulture in Landscape Design and a structural landscape licence. Previously both the NSW and National President of the Australian Institute of Horticulture, Marc has been a consultant to the NSW state government, taught at TAFE, worked in TV and been a design consultant at retail garden centres.

ANDREW TULLOCH has been involved in the landscape maintenance industry for more than 20 years. He is a member of the Australian Institute of Landscape Designers and Managers. In 1991 Andrew started A.R.T. Landscape, which provides a landscaping and property service to commercial, industrial, and residential clients.

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Copyright Landscape Contractor Magazine is owned by Prime Creative Media and published by John Murphy. All material in Landscape Contractor Magazine is copyright and no part may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means (graphic, electronic or mechanical including information and retrieval systems) without written permission of the publisher. The editor welcomes contributions but reserves the right to accept or reject any material. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information, Prime Creative Media will not accept responsibility for errors or omissions or for any consequences arising from reliance on information published.

The opinions expressed in Landscape Contractor Magazine are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by, the publisher unless otherwise stated.

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Death by 1000 cuts!

Most trade businesses don’t sink because of one big mistake. It’s usually a host of little things that suck the life and profit out of a commercial endeavour. Let’s look at seven of the most common ways to bleed your company dry.

1: Bad pricing

The easiest way to lose money is to cut corners pricing work. Yes, it takes time, but you need to calculate the hours and materials needed for every part of the project, you can’t just use rates. To make life easier, invest in estimating software. It will save lots of time and will help produce more accurate quotes.

2: Red tape

Processes are good, don’t get me wrong. I’m a big fan! But sometimes, in the pursuit of bettering the business, we can bog it down with processes. This often happens when introducing new software. In order to function it requires capturing data you’re already capturing.

The solution is simple: review the cradleto-grave process to identify any double ups and streamline reporting. Clearly delegate roles and responsibilities to staff so everybody understands what they’re expected to do and where they can expect to get information.

3: Deliveries

It’s almost always more cost effective to get materials/plant delivered than pick it up yourself. Every hour sitting in traffic is an unproductive hour. Bunnings may charge $65 for delivery, but collecting a packet of screws will cost minimum an hour, which could’ve been spent on site. You’re better off to keep working and get the goods delivered.

Sharing equipment between teams may seem like a cost-effective solution, but think about how many hours are wasted travelling between jobs to share tools. Unless you can work out an efficient way to ferry tools between sites, it’s usually cheaper to hire them in.

4: Overordering

Overordering materials not only eats your profit margin, it makes you less efficient. Yes, it’s better to have slightly more than slightly less (waiting for extra materials is the last thing you want), but cut your losses and get rid of the extra material as soon as possible. Try to avoid landfill (think Marketplace), but better in the skip than back at the yard. Not only will it still be sitting there in five years, but it will make your yard inefficient.

It’s important to get the ordering right. Double check measurements on site, don’t measure off the plan, and make sure an experienced staff member places all orders.

5: Waiting

Waiting sucks profit from a project quicker than you can say, “Smoko!”

The antidote to waiting is planning. Order materials well in advance, especially anything with a long lead time. Communicate with other trades on site so you don’t suddenly catch your team waiting on a trade to finish. Where possible, have a plan B. If you do get caught out by a delayed delivery, the best thing to do is quickly ferry the team to another site where it can be productive. Remember, they still cost you money when they’re not productive.

6: Untidy sites

A clean and organised site will run more efficiently than an untidy one. The same goes for the shed and ute. Try to set up all utes and sheds the same way, so they’re easy for everyone to navigate. And it’s much easier to restock a clean ute when you can clearly see when stock is low.

7: Callbacks

Defects have to be the biggest way to lose money. Not only are they inefficient to fix, but you won’t get paid until you do. They

also make for unhappy clients and staff, so eliminating defects is a must.

Snags come from a lack of training, support, care, poor culture and poor quality control. Address all these issues head-on to reduce defects.

Ensure staff are trained and support them to get that way. Most people want to do a good job, they don’t intentionally f-up. Create an environment where they feel supported to grow their skills. Everyone makes mistakes, but it’s best you find out from them, not hear it from the client. Create a culture where staff feel safe to admit their mistakes.

Occasionally you’ll get an employee who routinely doesn’t take care and leaves defects like turds at a dog park. The only thing to do is cut them loose quickly. Don’t let them negatively influence your positive company culture.

It’s also very important to carry out regular site inspections to identify snags early. The most important site inspection is the one before you hand over the job. Identify all the issues with the client, make a plan to fix them while the crew is still on site, and get them done before they leave. This process reassures the client everything is done well, and they are less likely to identify defects when you leave.

A happy client = getting paid on time. Think about it

You work hard for your money, don’t let poor business management eat up all your profit. Take the time to analyse your processes and take action to reduce losses. LC

Anna Turner points out the key to making more money is often not taking on more work. It’s changing business practices so existing work is more profitable.

It’s almost always more cost effective to get the material/plant delivered than pick it up yourself.

A clean and organised vehicle or site will run more efficiently than an untidy one.

Colourful landscapes

Landscapers spend a lot of time constructing hardscapes, but often overlook the painting aspect of a job. Marc Worner shares some excellent insights into colour choice and treatment of surfaces.

We are spending more and more time in our home outdoor living areas than ever before. We are spending thousands to add that perfect ambience to these valuable outdoor rooms. We build outdoor kitchens, fireplaces and lounge spaces to watch ‘the big game’.

Yet we don’t need to spend big amounts because painting is the least-expensive method to add style to these spaces. Colour reflects our personalities and helps highlight features and furniture. It’s creative, complimentary, and always conversational.

Colour works

The colour choice of any painted surface can make or break the design intent. Yet deciding on colours can be a minefield. Ultimately, the client must approve, so let the client select from, say, three options of your choosing to satisfy your design intent and yet still be engaging with your client.

I once painted a section of a timber boundary fence to help highlight my water feature and used Priscilla Pink! I promised the clients I would paint over the fence, at no charge, if they disapproved of my

choice. Despite the fact their house was painted in pastel colours and they had many reservations; they loved it!

For a visually striking space choose complementary colours directly opposite from one another on the colour wheel; such as red and green, or blue and orange. Adding black to any space lends a sophisticated edge to it. Even use colours

from your past as inspiration. The most impactful choices can be colours from childhood that remind us of fond memories.

TIP: To create the illusion of space use bright colours. To get this look right, it’s important to mirror the colour of your walls in the flooring. This makes an area feel like one big, open space.

Colour helps highlight features and furniture.

Always paint bare timber with a primer paint first for a longer-lasting finish.

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Enamel or acrylic?

There are some things to carefully consider if we want to achieve the best outcomes for our hard work. While you can paint a home’s interior at any time of the year, exterior painting is restricted by climate, temperature and moisture.

The optimum time to paint is when there is a stretch of dry, warm weather extending for at least two months. So good luck with that.

Just as important to consider are temperature fluctuations. Paint is not happy when temperatures during the day are high and then suddenly drop to a low in the night. Paint should only be applied to a dry surface. Your painting surface can become moist, either by direct contact from rain or simply from humidity in the air. After a hard rain, wait at least one full day before painting. Check the surface to be painted. Does it feel wet? Even if it does not feel wet to the touch, it may be wet within, especially for porous surfaces like bare wood and masonry. Remember: moisture happens indirectly too. Dew forming overnight can quite easily mess up exterior paint, even though

it was a dry, balmy 24 degrees just 10 hours earlier.

Acrylics are better for most exterior situations than oil-based enamels. Acrylics retain their colour better and provide a longer-lasting, more durable finish. As enamels age, they become brittle and chalky, causing surface cracks and flakes.

TIP: Follow the shade wherever possible. When painting in summer avoid painting in direct sunlight or onto a hot surface. You can also add up to five per cent water to the paint to slow down the drying rate to reduce the chance of flaking.

Adhesion

We often encounter previously painted surfaces, so we need to check the ability of our paint to stick to it. Conduct an adhesion test. Ensure the surface is sound by cutting a small X through the existing paint with a sharp blade, press cellulose tape firmly across the cut and then rip off the tape. If the paint comes off, it is unsound and should be removed. Repeat at random in a number of areas to test the surface. Any small areas of peeling or cracking can be sanded back. Larger holes and defects in timber should be filled and spot primed.

TIP: Always paint bare timber with a primer paint first for a longer-lasting finish.

If you’re dealing with painted brick or masonry, wash it with a high-pressure cleaner and a stiff bristled brush. Next,

Deciding on colours can be a minefield.

Newly laid concrete surfaces must be allowed to cure for a minimum of two months before painting with an acrylic paint.

Spraying will take about half the time of using a brush, but be careful of wind drift and over spraying.

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scrape off all loose and flaking paint and ensure the surface is dry, otherwise the paint will peel off. Make sure you sand any rough surfaces too, because after paint goes on, those areas will stand out.

TIP: Unpainted masonry walls should be cured for one month before painting.

Application

We often find ourselves painting pergolas and decks. Some common building timbers contain a natural staining material called tannin. Timber tannins can often break up and carry through to the timber’s surface via moisture in the wood. There are exterior paints which will block those tannins, like Dulux Weathershield.

You can choose between two methods to apply paint – brush/roller or spray gun – depending on the situation. Spraying will take about half the time of using a brush, but be careful of wind drift and over spraying onto other surfaces you may not want to touch. Spray guns are cheap, easy to use and readily available at hardware stores and paint resellers.

Newly laid concrete surfaces for vehicular or pedestrian traffic must be allowed to cure for a minimum of two months before painting with an acrylic paint. If you plan to use an oil-based paint, even longer is required.

CAUTION: While it takes time, curing concrete is vital. It protects against excessive moisture loss and makes for stronger foundations by reducing the chance of cracking.

Ferrous metals like wrought iron and steel are prone to rust. Before painting, ensure they are rust-free by sanding or wire brushing the surface and treating with a rust remover. Then use an all-metal primer paint before applying a coloured topcoat.

Non-ferrous metals like galvanised iron and your Colorbond/Zincalume-type products should never be treated directly with oil-based enamel paints. Instead, paint with a metal-primer first.

As for aluminium, copper, brass and stainless steel; paint will not stick directly to them. Instead, prepare the surface by scrubbing with a scouring pad and water before wiping down with a clean rag. Then prime the surface with a metal primer before applying the topcoat.

Disposal

Finally, never dispose of unwanted paint by pouring it down household or stormwater drains. Water-based paints can be treated with waste-paint hardeners. These products turn the liquid paint into a solid mass which can then be placed in household garbage. The can, once emptied; can be placed in household recycling bins. Unwanted solvent-based paints can be disposed of by pouring the excess onto an absorbent material such as kitty litter, cardboard or shredded paper. Allow to dry and dispose of with normal household garbage.

The major manufacturers of paint all offer excellent advice and information on all aspects of painting on their respective web sites. LC

WORDS: MARC WORNER

To create the illusion of space use bright colours.

The most impactful choices can be colours from childhood that remind us of fond memories.

Ideas for Enchanting Outdoor Spaces

If there’s one lesson John Gabriele feels we’ve learnt over the past two years of living through the pandemic, it is the importance of our outdoor spaces and how critical they have become in managing our mental wellbeing.

The outdoor landscape and gardens have become an integral part of modern living and landscape designs reflect the requirement of a seamless link between our interior and external environments.

There has been a significant shift in our psyche and the outdoor environment now plays a more meaningful role in our everyday lives. This has seen an increase in the shift towards landscape designs that provide enchantment, evoking an element of magic that connects the users of a space to something more meaningful on a personal

level, a deeper connection to nature. When we enter a garden, we are often transported into a sacred place where the elements of nature meld with the senses. If the design has been well executed, it forces us to slow down. Gardens give us an opportunity to laugh, play, and even work in a rewarding capacity. Every garden may be different, but they all have something to offer. Gardens can be havens where the calm and serenity provides a soothing relief from the modern-day lifestyle, and the effect is often described as intoxicating.

To achieve such effects there are a multitude of design and plant considerations that can be drawn upon.

Wonderful water

Water is one of the most evocative elements of garden design and can be used to dramatic effect in creating ambience and enchantment that is unsurpassed in beauty. The value of water in gardens has been recognised throughout garden history, with many of the grand gardens of Europe, the Orient, and the Middle East utilising both

Every picture deserves to be framed, and the artistic quality of the garden is no exception.

the subtle aspects of water’s stillness and movement to complete the garden. The ambiance a pond or water feature brings to a garden far exceeds the disadvantage of any maintenance requirements and provides the perfect conduit to increasing the aesthetic integrity and functionality of any garden. It’s not just the look of water in a garden that gives us pleasure, the sound of cascading water can be quite intoxicating to the senses.

Water always plays a part when it comes to enchantment.

Fuelling the fire

Firepits have become an integral part of the outdoor lifestyle, a social hot spot, and their inclusion in landscape designs allows the enjoyable use of an area to be extended across the seasons from the warmth a fire pit provides. Fire pits are undoubtedly a great way to bring people, family and friends together. Fire in a landscape can be quite provocative, and as we search for a deeper connection with our outdoor environments it is an element that should be given consideration in any landscape design.

Containing the excitement

Modern garden designs employ the use of containers to provide impact as well as functionality. Containers have become an integral part of landscape design, and the diversity of containers available

can enhance the overall aesthetic and functionality of any landscape. From the contemporary to the whimsical, there are containers that can provide impact and effective utilisation of space to provide scale and dimension without compromising

Water always plays a part when it comes to enchantment.

Fire pits are undoubtedly a great way to bring people, family and friends together.

other design considerations. It’s easy to develop enchanting green spaces through incorporating beautiful containers into the landscape, and with so much diversity available it will be hard to contain the excitement.

Light it up

As more people understand the importance of their outdoor space as an extension of the internal environment, there has

been greater demand for outdoor light installations in landscape design to increase the time spent in the landscape. Any outdoor lighting scheme needs careful planning and consideration as to the overall desired effect. Execution is critical to success; the aim of any outdoor lighting installation should be to achieve both security and aesthetics. Designing enhanced lighting schemes within a landscape will not only

improve the aesthetics of the overall design, but it can also increase the functionality of the landscape and increase the value of a property. Lighting can also be varied at will to create a changing nightscape. With so much to gain, why not light it up.

Over the edge

Every picture deserves to be framed, and the artistic quality of the garden is no exception. Just as art can be transformed into something truly magical with the right frame, a garden will appear much more spectacular with a carefully planted border. Borders can be used to highlight features within the garden and draw the observer’s attention to other areas of interest as well as softening the appearance of hard landscape features such the edges of paths.

The art of illusion

The art of illusion within a landscape can have a dramatic effect on the way in which we perceive and interact within a space. It’s vital to maximise space to its full potential. Strategically placed plants and other features within a garden can give the impression there is more space than really exists. Garden designers utilise several tricks to create an element of illusion in gardens.

The outdoor environment now plays a more meaningful role in our everyday lives.

Any outdoor lighting scheme needs careful planning and consideration.

Hedges are one element that can be used to very good affect to give the impression of space and lead the eye on to vistas and focal points; they can detract attention from other features or draw you into areas. Hedges can screen undesirable views or other garden elements to provide privacy and protection. Strategically placed hedges within a garden can provide the framework for enhancing the beauty of the overall garden theme.

Mirrors can be used in gardens to good effect, especially in smaller gardens where a strategically placed mirror can create the illusion the garden is twice the size. Care needs to be taken to ensure mirrors do not pose a hazard to people and animals. Birds particularly may find a mirror in the garden distressing. Another consideration is the image reflected from the mirror. Position mirrors where the sun will not directly reflect from the surface. Mirrors work best in the garden when there are lots of plants growing around them so that they blend in with the background.

Statutory and ornaments

Garden ornaments are a great way of creating interest. If properly placed they will draw attention and can be effective in establishing the composition of an overall garden theme. Sculptures, abstract ornaments, human and animal figures are always popular, especially with children, and if placed thoughtfully amongst the plants they can be very effective. Even walls can be made interesting with plaques which are best displayed surrounded by the foliage of a climber that frames the ornament as the focal point. There really are no steadfast rules when it comes to selecting

ornaments for the garden, but don’t use too many ornaments as the garden will appear cluttered, aim for simplicity and surprise.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to creating an enchanted landscape, but it is the plants that really bring the charm to the overall scheme. Gardens provide us with more than just flowers, fruits, and vegetables; if we are open, nature will reveal herself in all her splendour. There is enchantment to be found in every landscape, just stop to smell the roses, linger a little longer, look a little deeper and listen for the subtle messages that nature has to offer. Nature wants to collaborate with us just as much as we yearn to be fulfilled by nature and one pathway to paradise can be discovered through the enchantment of a garden. LC

Care needs to be taken to ensure mirrors do not pose a hazard to people and animals.

Borders can be used to highlight features.

One pathway to paradise can be discovered through the enchantment of a garden.

Compaction PART 2

Greetings, reader.

We’ve identified that, as landscape professionals in the construction industry, we are the only trade that needs both compacted earth to build our structures upon and well-drained, nourished soils to grow our plants in. Our profession is totally unique within the building industry as we are the only one that plays a role in the natural cycles.

Commitment to providing the best possible soil conditions for the plants

will greatly assist your competitive edge, the client’s satisfaction with the product you provide and the ecology you are paid to create.

I was thrilled to learn that the Landscape Association of NSW and ACT Landscaper Of The Year was awarded to Fifth Season, a company that maintains a very strong ethos on the importance of soil improvement, soil conservation and professional development. Fifth Season is playing the long game with its commitment

to nurturing the soil within its work, thus ensuring the gardens they create will continue to advertise the quality of their workmanship long after warranties for structural works have expired.

Congratulations to them and all of the companies committed to delivering high standards of horticultural practice and environmental responsibility.

Reminder

Before we delve into systems to fix soil compaction, here’s a quick recap on why it’s such a problem to gardens, the environment and our bottom line. Soil compaction reduces:

• Soil porosity and fertility

• Root growth

• Nutrient and water uptake

• Growth rates

• Flower, foliage and fruit yield

• Stormwater infiltration rates

• Water availability rates

• Groundwater replenishment

• Irrigation efficiency

• Soil carbon uptake and storage

• Biological activity

• Gaseous exchange

• The useful life span of all plants, and

• Long-term profit margins.

Jonathan Garner likes some ebb and flow.

If there have been trucks or machines onsite and it’s been wet, sub surface compaction is almost guaranteed.

Landscape professionals in the construction industry are the only trade that needs both compacted earth to build structures upon and well-drained, nourished soils to grow plants in.

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On the other hand, soil compaction increases:

• Erosion

• Stormwater runoff

• Stormwater management costs

• Nutrient leaching

• Pest and disease

• Drought and flood stress

• Inconsistent growth rates

• Workload

• Remediation costs, and

• Dissatisfied clients.

We previously discussed how soil comes to be compacted. I suggested some simple and affordable solutions to reduce, or better still, avoid compaction. Now it’s time to discuss approaches to alleviate the trickiest of the three types: sub soil compaction.

We’ll discuss the other types in the next issue.

History

Sub soil compaction layers are generally found at depths beyond 150mm and usually involve the compaction of the B horizons or, in certain cases, the compaction of the A horizon that has been top dressed with a lightweight imported soil blend.

Deep soil compaction principally comes about from heavy vehicles such as skid steers, tractors and trucks travelling on wet soils, or the repetitive use of cultivating equipment like rotary hoes which scrape and pack the soil below their tines.

The compaction may have occurred long before we got onto a site.

On new housing developments, this may have been caused by farming equipment prior to the subdivision happening. Who knows what equipment has been previously cultivating, crossing or parking on the land we’re now planting into? I’ve visited sites planted well over 20 years ago with large trees that have blown over. The very shallow root plate and rock-hard, loamy sub soil were prime indicators, and the consequences of compacted layers that weren’t identified or addressed prior to planting.

Sub soils

Many of these examples are found on sandy loam or the goldilocks soil types, being the moderately textured types. The challenge we have is the better soils for growing plants are often the types prone to soil compaction. Sandy loams are the most susceptible to deep compaction because their structure is very weak. The term ‘weak’ means the strength of the peds or aggregates. These can be easily broken

down from crumbs into individual particles, then pushed into the pore spaces within the soil. Once the soil profile loses its structure, the whole lot caves in on itself. Precious air is forced out, water gets stuck between the individual soil particles and the ugly process of compaction begins.

Once this messy layer of poorly drained soil particles dries out from having thirsty plants above (often from incorrect irrigation practices), it becomes so hard that roots can’t penetrate and water won’t infiltrate. The layer is often no thicker than 100mm, but that’s sufficient to screw up the processes of infiltration. Once water becomes perched in the zone, chemical reactions occur and the system turns to crap where few if any tree roots can penetrate. About the only natural thing that can break through the compacted layer are wombats.

If you’ve had trucks or machines onsite and it’s been wet, I can guarantee you’ve got sub surface compaction.

So before we even consider ordering the plants, let’s make sure we haven’t any compacted layers by digging holes around the planting areas to inspect the soil profile (remember this from last year?).

Drainage rate

Potholing will help identify where any compacted layers may be and the depths they might be at. Look out for tyre marks from equipment, identify other telltale signs and dig there first.

Digging around 20 holes in a 200m2 back yard with scissor shovels should take the apprentice a couple of hours and give them a closer understanding of what’s going on underground. Make sure the sides of the holes aren’t glazed. If the soil has the right moisture levels (not dry and not soaked) the

irrigation-flag method I mentioned before will help ascertain where a compacted layer might be and its depth. While the holes are open, check out the horizon profile for layers (we’ll talk about this later) and measure the drainage rates, too. This is a simple process that will provide you with valuable knowledge:

Step 1: Fill the holes with water to a depth of 30cm to saturate the surrounding soil.

Step 2: Once they’ve drained, fill them again to the same depth.

Step 3: Measure the depth of water after 15 minutes and multiply the number by four to calculate the hourly drainage or infiltration rate.

Step 4: 25mm – 100mm is reasonable for most plants.

If it’s slower than these figures you’ve got drainage issues that may require different plant selections or remediation works. If you’re on poorly drained soil I would definitely be speaking to the designer or client about the rates you’ve measured.

Compost

Regardless of whether we have a compacted layer or not, it’s good practice to rip or open up the planting soil to depths of at least 30cm, ideally 45cm or deeper. Getting precious oxygen deep into the soil profile does wonders for the biological activity and will encourage roots to reach serious drought-proofing depths.

Regardless of the soil type, I’m a big fan of applying gypsum prior to ripping work. Australian soils are generally low in calcium, so the application of gypsum can help to rebuild the soil structure. Calcium acts as a bridge between soil particles and helps the process of soil structural development,

Most sites enable access for a small excavator.

building crumbs and improving porosity between them. Keep in mind gypsum doesn’t dissolve very well, it works best if you can apply it at the problem zone. If you’ve had the soil tested, this is a good time to start applying the recommended mineral amendments too. I don’t apply compost for deep ripping, although I do use it for surface treatment.

But that’s a topic for our next chat.

Most sites enable access for a small excavator with a ripping tooth to undertake this work. If you’ve identified a compacted layer deeper than the tooth you may need to gently pull the top soil back to enable the tooth to reach below and crack open the compacted layer. It’s important the ripping tooth gets below the layer so when it is dragged through the soil the layer is gently lifted and opened from the bottom side up.

Don’t turn the soil, just park the machine and gradually drag the tooth throughout the areas you can reach, then shift the machine along further and repeat the process. If you’re onboard with adding

calcium then spread the gypsum of one handful per lineal metre behind the tooth as this will get it closer to the sub soil.

Place your plywood or track matts on the ripped sections once you’ve finished.

Where compacted layers are beyond a ripping-tooth depth, it might be more effective to use a trenching machine. Although this approach will blend the A and B horizons together, the benefits of a well-aerated and non-compacted soil will greatly outweigh any inconsistency created by mixing the two soils together.

Machinery fix

On larger sites there’s the opportunity to use a subsoiling ripper. Many of these have wings on the tooth which gently lift up the sub soil.

If tight access still forbids the use of the smallest machinery consider using a 16kg electric jackhammer with clay-spade attachment.

I wouldn’t consider addressing deep compaction without a machine. Keep in mind it was heavy equipment that caused

the problem, so you’ll need something punchy to fix it. Clay spades work quite well but are time consuming. Then again, investing eight hours now for the benefit of the garden’s future is always worthwhile.

Preparation

Remember something is better than nothing. Even if you only manage to break through a quarter of the compacted area, you’re allowing 25% more precious oxygen and water to access the deeper horizons. Breaking any sections of compacted layers will enable tree roots to penetrate beside and beneath the problem layer. In time, the tree roots should assist with breaking through the remaining sections.

Before you let loose with equipment, there are a few items to consider prior to undertaking deep soil works.

1. Locate and flag services

2. Be mindful not to perform this under trees over three metres tall

3. Avoid damaging roots thicker than 40mm

4. The soil must be dry enough to crumble in your hands

5. Leave wet soil alone. We want to crack the soil, not smear or glaze it.

Next time we’ll discuss dealing with compaction in gardens. LC

On new housing developments, compaction may have been caused by farming equipment prior to the subdivision happening.

Deep soil compaction can come about from the repetitive use of cultivating equipment like rotary hoes.

John Deere 333G Compact Track Loader

The 333G compact track loader (CTL) can be outfitted with a range of grade control solutions, from 2D Laser Slope Control, SmartGrade™ Ready with Slope Control, and the industry’s first fully integrated 3D grade control solution available on a compact track loader, SmartGrade™. All these solutions provide an overall, more efficient manner of cutting and spreading material to get to grade the first time and avoid rework, even in tight areas.

2D Laser Slope Control provides a cost-effective and precise solution for grading flat pads and simple slopes, both in outdoor and indoor settings. Receivers on the blade detect a plane provided by an offboard base station and signal the machine controllers to raise, lower, or pitch the blade automatically to cut the final target grade.

SmartGrade™ Ready with Slope Control is an entry-level grade control system on the 333G CTL that assists operators in grading smooth planar surfaces by automating the blade using machine

position or operator-desired mainfall and/ or crossfall slopes to automate raising, lowering, and tilting of the blade.

SmartGrade™ is a solution that integrates precision 3D grade control technology, from the factory, that takes the guesswork out of finish grading on jobsites with 3D models with complex slopes and cut/fill requirements.

Regardless of which option is selected, all three solutions come with standard features that provide the 333G with a unique advantage no matter the jobsite.

The Deere designed-and-built six-way dozer-blade attachment is robust enough to cut rough grade, but also smooth enough to do precision fine grading, and is included in both SmartGrade™ and Slope Control offerings.

With just the push of a button on the SSM, DozerMode can be enabled to allow the machine controls to function like those on a crawler dozer, while EZ Grade software stabilises the blade for smoother grading while operating manually.

John Deere’s grade control is upgradable, too. You can start out with 2D slope control and upgrade to a 3D SmartGrade without having to buy a new machine.

Operator-friendly cab

The spacious and pressurised cab means operators can stay fresh throughout the entire workday, thanks to designs that minimise noise levels and keep water and dust out. Switchable controls allow an operator to choose the pattern they prefer (ISO, H-pattern, foot controls, or ISO plus foot controls), meaning they can get to work quicker and easier.

The ergonomic design includes a larger and continuous footwell to allow for extra room and repositioning of the operator’s feet to maximise comfort, and controls are in operator-friendly locations that allow for repetitive movements to take place easier. The outcome is operators won’t tire as quickly throughout the day.

Multiple slip-resistant steps and six handles mounted on the interior and exterior

of the machine result in a safer and more natural way to get in and out of the cab, while inside, an expertly designed aircon system with vents spaced along the side, bottom, and rear guarantees operator comfort in any season.

Excellent visibility

A good field of vision enables an operator to view the jobsite, and to be as precise and productive as possible, while increasing jobsite awareness. The view from the cab of the 333G is exceptional at all times, but optional deluxe LED lighting provides increased visibility early in the morning or at night over the standard halogen package. There’s also a clear line of sight from the seat under the boom arms to see the tyres, even when the boom is down, and great visibility to the cutting edges and Quik-Tatch™ lock and unlock indicators.

Topping off the excellent all-round visibility are a rear-view camera, lowsloped hood and a high cross-tube on the upper-linkage for unmatched rear visibility.

Productivity enhancements

CTLs have enhanced features that result in higher productivity in applications like V-pattern truck loading, bale handling, and grading when compared to the competition. Increased bucket breakout forces result in better handling of pallets of pavers or other heavy materials, in addition to helping heap the bucket with larger loads. On the 333G an anti-stall feature monitors engine load to quickly prevent stalling, allowing the operator to use the maximum horsepower efficiently when pushing large amounts of material, and differential steering allows maintaining speed and traction when pushing through a turn.

Finally, the standard two-speed drivetrain delivers travel speeds up to 13kph that allow operators to get from one side of the job to the other much quicker.

The John Deere 333G Compact Track Loader is ready work, quickly, efficiently, with a high level of comfort for the operator. LC

Spacious and ergonomically designed cab.

John Deere’s 2D Slope Control.

Limcora and Hitachi

Since purchasing its first Hitachi Excavator some 10 years ago, plumbing and drainage specialist Limcora has gone from strength to strength, with operators, clients and directors all singing the praises of these durable workhorses. With efficiency, power, comfort and minimal maintenance common features throughout the Hitachi excavator range, it’s a solid win for everybody.

Business partners Evan Graham and Alex Nelson have done a great job at the reins after taking over the business from Alex’s dad and twin brother. The siblings originally ran the business with a single truck and a machine, but since taking over the business some 17 years ago, Alex and Graham have built the team up from around eight staff to over 60 across two states (NSW and Tasmania).

The boys have set up the head office in Mulgrave, with a yard in Pitt Town and a second office in Kingston, just south of Hobart.

Predominantly the teams focus on new housing, anywhere from new, affordable homes, to subdivisions, mediumdensity, high-rise and commercial, and on to childcare centres, unit complexes, amenity buildings, and maintenance.

Hitachi

Alex and Evan have been building up their fleet of nine excavators, which they own themselves, with the fleet now ranging between 1.7 tonne and eight tonne.

It was some 10 years ago the boys decided to purchase their first Hitachi, and prior to that Alex and Evan had purchased and owned most other types of machines. After making that first purchase and experiencing first hand Hitachi’s reliability and durability, the team at Limcora hasn’t looked back.

“Today, some 10 years after buying our first Hitachi, we now own nine Hitachi machines,” relayed Alex. “We have even sent one down to work in Tasmania.

“This machine had 6000 hours on the clock and is still as tight as the day we bought it. The Hitachi’s just don’t stop working, they don’t break down and the parts we find normally wear out after a few thousand hours – like bushes and pins – on the Hitachi are still going strong well above and beyond the stage where other machines are worn out and need replacement parts.”

After-sales service

Another area Alex and Evan seem extremely happy with the Hitachi brand has been the after-sales service.

“We work our machines in all types of harsh environments, conditions, and ground types, said Evan. “Our after-sales service from Hitachi has been second to none.

The Hitachis work in all types of harsh environments, conditions, and ground types.

The Limcora team is extremely happy with the Hitachi brand.

“When we have had a few small issues with machines, they have been right onto it, either on the same day or the next day. We really can’t ask for much else. With our continued growth, one of our most important factors is reliable partnerships. Whether that’s with subcontractors or suppliers, we feel like Hitachi really has our needs covered to keep the partnership strong and to grow with us.”

Current works for the Limcora team include 600 residential homes in construction, along with several amenity buildings, with work spread across the eastern seaboard from Newcastle all the way down to Jervis Bay and west out to Dubbo.

Hitachi rep Bryce Gibson

Bryce Gibson is Limcora’s sales representative and has been working with the brothers for the past 12 months. He’s been with Hitachi Construction now for two years. Bryce has sold Alex and Evan two machines so far over the past 12 months,

Current works for the Limcora team and Hitachi fleet include 600 residential homes in construction, along with several amenity buildings.

“The Hitachi machines are still going strong well above and beyond the stage where other machines are worn out and need replacement parts.”

and has found the key areas of the Hitachi machines the Limcora team enjoy and appreciate are the operator comfort and stability of the machines, along with the performance, power and overall reliability.

The ability to get the jobs done quicker and more efficiently also keeps Alex and Evan happy, while the creature comforts and performance keep the operators happy.”

On the tools

When it comes to servicing the Limcora team enjoys a service contract, purchased with each machine, to ensure all are serviced at the right times, with the service cost being paid upfront. It allows the Limcora team to focus on work and not have to worry about service intervals and scheduling.

Bryce told us, “Whenever the boys have had any issues, they simply call George, their CSR (customer service rep) who looks after Limcora, and he gets out to solve any issues – most times on the same day or next.

“We pride ourselves on building this trust and relationship with Limcora and we look forward to growing with the company in the future.”

With as much work in the pipeline as Limcora has, the next few years will again see continued growth, and with Bryce and the Hitachi team behind them, they couldn’t be more well positioned to take advantage of all opportunities that come their way.

10 years after the first purchase, Limcora now owns nine Hitachi machines and hasn’t looked back.

Limcora has been using Hitachi excavators for a decade, with the fleet now ranging between 1.7 tonne and 8 tonne.

Ring-O-Matic 275VX

Offering a high-power vacuum excavation unit, in a compact trailer mounted design and with a smaller footprint than their truck mounted units, CEA’s Ring-O-Matic 275VX is ideal for all applications, such as installing fence posts, soft excavation, locating services, pit cleaning, and mid to large landscaping jobs to name a few.

On a recent site visit we called in to catch up with National Product Manager of Ring-O-Matic CEA Scott O’Hare, who had Matt Wilson from Boremore Directional Drilling putting the Ring-O-Matic 275VX through its paces. Watching the Ring-O-Matic rip through the coarse stone and soil quickly proved how well this unit could tackle even rocky challenging ground with its 3000psi/18.9l/ min water pressure and supply. There was nothing clean about this ground, with chunky rock appearing in the ground after just 10cm or so of topsoil. Yet the Ring-O-Matic 275VX did a great job clearing the way for potential post-setting, utility locating or similar activities.

The system works with high-pressure water, which cuts the required area, along with a 600CFM blower (with reverse flow) vacuum system, which can work as a wet/

dry vacuum, where waste is sucked up into the spoil tank which is mechanically locked with the spider door locking system and is hydraulically opened. The hydraulic door opens to nearly 90 degrees, providing the industry’s widest opening rear door in its class for easy dumping/removal of waste, with controls conveniently located on a magnetic remote.

Trailer-mounted system

The 3000psi water pump is fed by a 378-litre water tank, which includes a low water level shut-off feature. Having a single tank provides higher reliability and fewer maintenance requirements.

While this system is the smallest Ring-OMatic vacuum, many of the features from the larger truck-mounted systems have made their way down into this trailer-mounted unit, which can be easily towed providing excellent access and manoeuvrability.

The trailer-mounted Ring-O-Matic 275 VX can be towed behind a small truck and allows excellent access and manoeuvrability.

Everything needed to operate the Ring-O-Matic is in an easy-to-reach place.

Non-Destructive Digging

Chatting with Scott about why the system has become so popular, he shared, “Vacuum excavation and NDD (NonDestructive Digging) processes have become increasingly popular over the last two decades as they provide minimal risk to service lines and injury to workers. Hydro-excavation machines utilise highpressure water’s cutting power and a powerful vacuum that can remove almost any surface without damaging existing infrastructures. When locating sensitive assets, the last thing you want to do is throw a traditional excavator bucket into the ground, or you will end up ripping up a whole pile of stuff you didn’t want to.”

Scott continued, “The fact you take away all your waste with you in the spoil tank makes this a clean and fast process compared to typical excavation. Some features you

• Reverse flow

• 74º hydraulic opening door

• Led work lights

The 74-degree, hydraulic-opening, spiderlock door on the spoil tank allows the operator to stand safely off to one side.

Taking all the waste away in the spoil tank makes this a clean and fast process compared to typical excavation.

A clever design has also allowed for a massive toolbox.

Magnetic remote.

don’t typically see on a machine of this size are the reverse flow and fully hydraulic tipping and opening door. The large single-water tank reduces maintenance concerning the water. Placing it on the right side of the system has allowed us to place everything you need to operate the Ring-O-Matic in easy-to-reach places here on the kerb side of the trailer. This is where you will find all the tool storage, controls, water hose and filtration. This is also where you will find the remote control for the rear door, so you don’t have to walk around to control the tank. It can all be done remotely. This door also has a spider lock. Operators used to trailer-mounted vacs are probably used to screwing the back door open. When you get up to this sized tank, that system is too cumbersome, and a lot of weight is involved when full. So, this spider lock is a

• Kerbside controls

• Magnetic remote

• Single water tank

Easy maintenance access.

much safer system as you can stand to the side, out of the way, with a lot less time and effort required.”

Typical applications for the Ring-O-Matic include potholing, pipe cleaning, trenching, pit cleaning (sumps and manhole cleaning), natural disaster and storm clean-up, construction site clean-up, just to name a few.

CEA supplies many types of hydro excavation equipment, with spoil tanks available from 568L up to 12,000L. The Ring-O-Matic 275VX sports a 946L spoil tank driven by a 31HP Deutz Diesel with a 68L fuel capacity.

CEA offers the Ring-O-Matic 275VX on a heavy-duty 4.5T GVM galvanised Australian-made trailer, built to meet

and exceed harsh Australian conditions. A clever design has also allowed for a massive toolbox, additional tool/hose storage, and a well-balanced down-ball weight on the towing vehicle.

For more information on this or any machines in the Ring-O-Matic CEA range, visit: ringomaticcea.com.au or call your closest branch on 1300 788 757. LC

A high-pressure hose cuts or cleans the required area and a Positive Displacement Lobe Pump creates vacuum to clean the area.

Waste is sucked up into the spoil tank.

The slurry is sucked through the large vacuum pole fed into the ground.

JCB site dumpsters

Time efficient and cost effective

JCB site dumpsters can be tailored by selecting from a range of operating weights, tipping configurations, transmissions and more.

The compact size of these machines gives them access to a variety of working environments, and with exceptional tip

height and load capacity, and high levels of precision and control, they’re time efficient and cost effective.

The latest range is a comprehensive collection of machines designed to offer industry-leading levels of safety, but the two smaller units are standouts.

HDT-5 and HDT-5E

Dumpsters are becoming more popular on Aussie work sites. The potential hazards associated with wheelbarrows, alongside the comparatively small loads a barrow can handle, have made powered dumpsters an incredibly efficient workplace option.

JCB has two excellent examples, the HDT-5 and HDT-5E – ‘E’ for ‘electric’.

Both units carry a 500kg payload and have a maximum tracking speed of 3kph, and the HDT-5 is powered by a 4.4kW diesel, while the HDT-5E is powered by 4.9kWh lithium-ion batteries.

The JCB dumpsters cut back on manual labour. Instead of manually emptying a barrow, the dumpsters raise up and tilt into the bins.

Material can be easily and efficiently transported across or around work sites.

“The little half-tonne dumpsters are finding more and more places on sites.” He explained. “They not only cut back on manual labour, but they are replacing wheelbarrows because more and more sites have big skip bins. Trying to manually lift things out of barrows up into the bigger bins is risky. The dumpsters raise up and tilt into the bins.

“It takes a lot of labour out of the process and we’re just finding more and more enquiries for them.”

The JCBs are ‘safety step’ machines, instead of the more common pedestriantype dumpsters where the operator walks behind. The operator rides on the rear of the machine. The dumpster itself is built with safety switches which disable the drive if the operator’s not standing on the step. If someone steps off or falls, the machine stops.

Electric: green and efficient

As with most electric manual-handling and outdoor power equipment, the initial purchase price of the HDT-5E is a little higher than its diesel counterpart, but the opportunities to use a near-silent, zero-emissions machine are significantly greater than its internal combustion engine-powered stablemate.

Greg explained, “In a confined environment you should not use a diesel anyway, so people are using wheelbarrows and trollies in schools, shopping centres and hospitals. Obviously there’s no fumes from electric equipment. You’ve got no emissions and no noise. When the machine’s moving, you can hear the tracks moving along the ground, but there’s no engine noise. There’s no revving. It’s just dead quiet.

“In those environments electric is becoming more and more suitable and

sought after. It’s something people are looking for.

“A lot of companies now are asking, ‘How can we be greener?’ and they’re seriously looking at the HDT-5E.”

“Next year we’ll have a one-tonne version in electric and diesel,” he beamed, clearly rapt at the thought.

Safe

Aside from the safety and environmental advantages of the HDT-5 and HDT-5E, there’s the added efficiency of a single person being able to transport and handle a half-tonne load. With the protection of the safety-step design, the material can be easily and efficiently transported across or around work sites with the operator facing minimal hazards or potential injury from handling heavy loads.

For more information on site dumpsters visit www.jcbcea.com.au or contact your local dealer on 1300 522 232.

Greg Sealey, General Manager Distribution at CEA, importer of JCB, outlined some of the advantages.

A single person can transport and handle a half-tonne load.

The HDT-5E is near silent and has zero emissions. It’s ideal for work in confined or sensitive areas like schools, hospitals and indoor sites.

The JCBs are ‘safety step’ machines, built with safety switches which disable the drive if the operator steps off or falls.

Ditch Witch SK900 stand-on skid-steer

Increased ground drive torque gives the SK900 superior power.

The SK series from Ditch Witch is a range of six construction-grade skid steers, and the SK900 is the newest model in the Australian line up.

There are some very impressive features throughout the range, including zero daily greasing requirements, high ground clearance, and a unique high-drive track system that has bolt-on sprockets and track rollers for easy serviceability, and also provides increased traction and better stability. All track rollers are replaceable, a feature unique to Ditch Witch, and all have a low-maintenance tracktensioning system, attachment plates which will carry a wide array of attachments, and the biggest stand-on platform in the industry.

But the SK900 has a few innovations and specifics which make it an even more efficient and harder-working machine.

SK900 key features

• Runs quieter at lower rpm

• Throttle paddle lever

• Troubleshooting code gauge

• Optional side shields and hood guard

• Easy refuel with lockable-cap option

The SK900 can power an array of attachments.

The SK900 from Ditch Witch is a construction-grade skid steer.

Power where it’s needed

The SK900 runs a Yanmar 24hp turbo diesel motor, and in combination with a new hydraulic system and ground drive, it punches well above its weight.

Scott O’Hare, National Product Manager for Ditch Witch, shared some of the positive points of the newest SK.

“The Yanmar engine runs at a lower rpm than similar machines,” explained Scott, “so it runs much quieter than other units in the 24hp to 32hp class in the Ausralian market.

“The SK900 also features a new hydraulic pump and higher torque drive motors. That basically means tractive effort is greater than other machines in its class. It will become very noticeable in applications where more pushing power is required, allowing operators to get more out of their machine while maintaining a smaller footprint.”

New and improved

As with all the Ditch Witch SK skid steers, the SK900 has the same ground-drive speed in forward and reverse, but the newest model also features a trouble-shooting code gauge on the dash which helps with diagnostics and saves time. There’s no need to hook up a diagnostic tool. There’s also a new paddle throttle in lieu of a mechanical lever, and Scott points out it’s a bonus.

“There’s no adjustment required for it. It’s a more reliable set up and easier to use,” he said.

Where the other models in the Ditch Witch SK range have a steel guard which flips down and secures the fuel filler cap, the SK900 is available with a locking cap, speeding up access and making refuelling faster and easier.

The SK900 is clearly going to be well suited to the Australian landscaping industry.

“For landscape contractors who are using the SK900 in applications like digging, loading trucks and preparing surfaces, having the additional ground-drive torque is very important,” Scott pointed out. “They’re the operators who’ll see a big benefit from the SK900.”

Available from all CEA branches Australiawide. Visit ditchwitch.com.au

Quick specifications

• Lift capacity (35% tipping load): 422kg (932lb)

• Machine width 1.07m

• Overall length of machine, standard bucket 2.67m

• Overall length of loader, no attachment 2.19m

• Wheelbase/track length 1.09m

The biggest stand-on platform in the industry.

The Yanmar engine runs at lower rpm for quieter operation.

An unobstructed fuel cap speeds up access and makes refuelling faster and easier.

Hitachi ZX38U-5 mini excavator

Hitachi Construction Machinery’s ZX38U-5 Hitachi mini excavator is big when smoothness, precision and reliability are required for highly specialised projects, all while keeping running costs low.

Based in Sydney, Procoat Group specialises in highly detailed residential swimming-pool builds, along with drainage and site prep for the landscape of newly constructed properties. Procoat Group purchased its first Hitachi excavator from Hitachi Construction Machinery (Australia) Pty Ltd (HCA) in October 2021, and it immediately allowed the company to take on an increased workload.

Hard-working

“The Hitachi ZX38U-5 mini excavator hasn’t stopped working, going from one job site to another across New South Wales, with no issues at all,” commented Marty Mielcarz, owner of Procoat Group.

Previously known to own and operate other branded machinery, Marty stated, “Reliability, fuel economy and service back up from HCA is part of the appeal of purchasing Hitachi equipment. Positive brand reviews and word of mouth from Hitachi operators on site also led to the purchase.”

Starting the business six years ago, the company has a team of three full-time contractors that work across NSW, with plans to venture into Queensland.

“We work on a variety of projects: residential, commercial and government, so the requirement to deliver quality work on time and on budget is imperative to our business success,” Marty said.

Interesting projects completed by the company include the Chimpanzee enclosure project at Taronga Zoo, Sydney, and bunker repairs at Twins Creek’s golf course.

“Marty and the team pride themselves on specialising in difficult and challenging jobs and we are pleased that Procoat Group has chosen Hitachi and look forward to supporting them into the future,” commented HCA Sales Representative Bryce Gibson.

Safety and support

Like HCA, Procoat Group has a safety-first philosophy centred on safe work practices, no matter how busy the day gets. During busy periods a safety approach is vital to ensure contractors return home safely each night.

Marty is content with Hitachi’s Sydney branch, applauding the efforts of Bryce Gibson and HCA Customer Support

Representative George Paradisis, as both go out of their way to assist when the need arises.

“It’s about the whole package,” added Marty. “With many things contributing to the success of our Hitachi machinery.”

Hitachi’s after-sales support is close at hand, with five centralised HCA branches across New South Wales and a nationwide 24/7 customer support centre.

For more information on Hitachi’s range of products, please visit hitachicm.com.au or phone 1300 HITACHI.

The ZX38U-5 mini excavator is ideal for safe operation in tight work areas.

The ZX38U-5 mini excavator is supplied with added extras of rubber tracks and a hydraulic quick hitch.

“Reliability, fuel economy and service back up from HCA is part of the appeal of purchasing Hitachi equipment.”

And Product Reviews Construction Equipment

UHI range

UHI (United Heavy Industries) is a small-plant specialist with a big presence in the Australian machinery sector. With branches in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Townsville, Darwin and Wagga Wagga, UHI has always offered top-shelf options in mini excavators, skid steer loaders, wheel loaders and mini loaders. Here’s just of few of the great machines of offer in 2023.

Skid loader UHI30D (wheeled)

Engine: Honda CX690

Rated power: 23hp/17kW

Rotating speed: 3600rpm

Rated loading: 300kg

Max lift: 400kg

Bucket capacity: 0.15m³

Max travel speed: 6kph

Operating weight: 900kg

Max working height: 2452mm

Skid loader UHI30T (track)

Engine: Honda CX690

Rated power: 23hp/17kW

Rotating speed: 3600rpm

Rated loading: 300kg

Max lift: 400kg

Bucket capacity: 0.15m³

Max travel speed: 6kph

Operating weight: 900kg

Max working height: 2435mm

Skid loader T45

Engine: Kubota V1505

Fuel type: Diesel

Fuel tank capacity: 35 litres

Engine oil: 4.5 litres

Rating power: 35.5hp

Number of cylinders: Four

Displacement: 1.498 litres

Rated speed: 3000rpm

Max drive speed: 7.6kph

Operating height: 2695mm

UME10T excavator

Engine: Koop192

Rated power: 10hp/7.6Kw @ 3000rpm

Displacement: 0.499 litres

Max torque: 25Nm @ 2860rpm

Flow rate: 19.5lpm

Swing speed: 11rpm

Operating pressure: 16MPa

Max grade ability: 30°

Fuel capacity: 11 litres diesel

Travel speed: 1.3kph

Wheelbase: 910mm

Bucket capacity: 0.02m³

UME12 mini excavator

1200kg operating weight

Operating weight: 1200kg

Digging bucket capacity: 0,035cbm/120kg

Engine: Kubota D722 (made in Japan)

Rated power: 10.3kW

Displacement: 854cc

Max torque: 51.9Nm @ 1600rpm

Max grade ability: 30°

Fuel capacity: 16.4 litres diesel

Swing motor: SJ-Tech

Swing speed: 11rpm

Travel speed: 1.9kph

Wheelbase: 910mm

UME15 mini excavator

1450kg operating weight

Operating weight: 1450kg

Digging bucket capacity: 0.045cbm/120kg

Engine: Kubota D722 (made in Japan)

Rated power: 10.3kW @ 2200rpm

Displacement: 719cc

Max torque: 42.9Nm @ 2000rpm

Max grade ability: 30°

Fuel capacity: 12.8 litres diesel

Swing motor: EATON

Swing speed: 11rpm

Travel speed: 1.9kph

Wheelbase: 1130mm

UME28 mini excavator

2800kg capacity

Operating weight: 2750kg

Digging bucket capacity: 0.05cbm/120kg

Engine: Yanmar 3TNV80 (made in Japan)

Rated power: 14.6kW @ 2400rpm

Displacement: 1267cc

Max torque: 67.4Nm

Max grade ability: 30°

Fuel capacity: 22 litres diesel

Swing motor: AIDI

Swing speed: 9rpm

Travel speed: 1.4/2.7kph

Wheelbase: 1440mm

Homecoming king

Jack’s back in black (and yellow) with Cat®.

MotoGP superstar Jack Miller drew plenty of attention at the ASBK 2022 finale, but so did his ride.

Riding in on a black-and-yellow clad steed, the striking scene of Jack Miller arriving at The Bend was hard to miss. The 27-year-old ventured to South Australia once again to take part in the finale of the 2022 Australian Superbike Championship, after a hard-raced season in MotoGP.

The weekend was filled with thrills and spills, but it was Jack’s specially designed CAT bike that drew plenty of attention.

The Ducati Panigale V4 S set itself apart with its unique CAT decals that had it looking suitable for both the racetrack and the work yard.

“It’s awesome to have this sort of freedom and play around a bit with the bike, the leathers and what not to really make it how you want to envision it,” Jack said.

Jack Miller, MotoGP superstar and happy CAT owner.

Jack’s specially designed CAT bike drew plenty of attention.

“We dipped our feet in the water last year a little bit, and this year it’s come up tops.

“It’s nice to be able to have that freedom to make it look cool, that’s a big part of it. It’s also about being proud of it too.”

One of a kind

For Caterpillar® Marketing Manager Cameron Balzat, having the multi-year partnership with Jack take another step further was fantastic to see.

“It’s a great opportunity to showcase Caterpillar to our customers in a very different way,” Cameron said.

“We know most of our customers are machinery enthusiasts for one thing, but being enthusiasts, that translates over to motorsports in any form.”

Jack’s ride for the Superbikes was well and truly one of a kind. The bike rocks a hexagonal grill mesh detailing and a colour palette akin to other CAT machinery. It even sports ‘JM43T’ – Jack’s team and number in the make/model design you’d find on other CAT machinery. It’s practically part of the fleet, except it can go about 200kph faster.

“When we designed that bike in conjunction with Jack’s team, we wanted it to represent a CAT machine on the track,” Cameron said.

“Obviously, we don’t make two-wheeled bikes, but we wanted it to look like it came from our CAT factories, so to speak, even down to Cat Bolt-head decals to complete the impression of a Cat machine.”

Two-way fandom

Having been raised in rugged North Queensland, Jack’s passion for CAT machinery has been longstanding and led him to enquiring about buying some earthmovers for his property near Townsville.

“Jack came to us wanting to buy a tractor,” Cameron said. “That started the discussions, and he ended up buying a D3 dozer.

“He’s got that working on his property up at Townsville…a year later he bought a second Cat machine, a 259D3 Compact Track Loader.”

When he’s not dominating the track for MotoGP or Superbikes, Jack’s roaming his land aboard his Cat machines.

“I love having those machines there. If we do need to make some drastic changes then we get out the D3 and push around some serious dirt,” Jack added.

“It’s awesome to have that CAT machinery there to work with at home, it’s something I’ve dreamed of.

“It’s pretty hot up there, so that aircon definitely comes in handy.”

Anything but your typical sponsorship deal, Cameron said the connection made the partnership all the more deeper and translated well in the pits and on the track.

“It’s not just Jack representing Cat. He owns our machines and he loves what they and his Cat dealer, Hastings Deering, do for him,” he said. “We feel that’s a great connection with our customers. You can’t fake that level of passion.

“It’s not always easy to get that connection with racers who go around the world. MotoGP is a massive event in its own right.”

Back amongst it

A weekend of re-connecting was more important than any podium finishes for Jack. The charismatic speedster spent much of the weekend chatting with his Superbike co-riders as well as hundreds of fans, young and old.

During the weekend’s finale, Jack joined the top-three finishers for the race in the winner’s circle to do some cheer-rousing burnouts on his bike.

Prior to that, he did a leisurely lap around The Bend to soak it all in and chuck a wave or two at the many spectators who came out to see him.

“A great opportunity to showcase Caterpillar to customers in a very different way.”

Jack Miller and his one-of-a-kind CAT-sponsored Ducati arriving at The Bend was hard to miss.

XCMG: #3 worldwide and taking Australia by storm

A diverse range of construction equipment backed by a national service network.

As the world’s third-largest constructionequipment manufacturer with more than 40 years of industry experience, XCMG has built a global reputation for innovation, reliability and performance throughout its entire range of construction, agriculture and industrial machinery.

Designers and manufacturers of some of the world’s most renowned cranes, XCMG translates this superior engineering capability into its diverse and highest-quality range of construction machinery. Adopting a constant mindset of rigorous testing, refinement, improvement and customer-

focus, XCMG has a track record of delivering only the best and most reputable machinery. XCMG’s extensive list of recent global achievements include:

• Being the world’s largest crane manufacturer

• Becoming the world’s third-largest construction-machinery manufacturer

• Exporting products to 191 countries

• Included in the world’s Top 500 Brands for 2021

• Having $13.2 billion in revenue in 2021. Locally, as one of Australia’s fastest-growing machinery suppliers, XCMG offers a diverse range of construction equipment backed by a national network of service, parts and operator support – delivering the pinnacle of customer satisfaction.

Tried, tested and proven construction machinery range

Utilising its global footprint of manufacturing, research and development, field testing and continuous improvement – including major facilities in more than 10 countries such as Germany, Brazil, USA, India and China –XCMG has spent decades developing one

XCMG translates its superior engineering capability into its diverse and highest-quality range of construction machinery.

With rigorous testing, refinement, improvement and customer-focus, XCMG delivers only the best and most reputable machinery.

of the world’s most renowned and esteemed range of construction machinery.

In 2023 XCMG Australia offers more than 30 models of heavy excavators, mini excavators, wheel loaders, rollers, graders, scissor lifts and boom lifts nationwide. Underpinned by premium componentry from celebrated brands such as Cummins, Kubota, Eaton, Bosch-Rexroth, Isuzu, ZF and many more, XCMG machines are designed and built to perform with unmatched reliability, versatility and durability.

• Mini excavators: 1.7 to 8 tonne (including all-new models launching in 2023)

• Heavy excavators: 15 to 49 tonne

• Wheel loaders: 11 to 20 tonne

• Graders: 7 to 20 tonne

• Rollers: 2 to 20 tonne

• Access equipment: 5-metre to 16-metre scissor and boom lifts

Nationwide dealer network: premium backup and support

With dealerships and service agents throughout Australia, an investment in XCMG machinery not only delivers a premium machine, but also the peace of mind and minimal downtime that comes with unmatched after-sales support.

XCMG’s primary focus is to ensure complete satisfaction throughout a machine’s lifetime and beyond, by providing the best equipment, parts, service and assistance available.

XCMG Australia’s growing list of firstclass machinery dealers includes:

• XCMG Sales & Service: Central and Northern NSW, Queensland and Western Australia

• XCMG Sydney: Sydney, south coast NSW and ACT

• Sydney Trucks and Machinery: Sydney

• DND Diesel Services: Melbourne and urban Victoria

• Farm & Diesel: Rural Victoria

• Carines Merchandise: Rural Victoria

• National Forklift & Access Solutions: Victoria (Access Equipment)

• Adelaide Heavy Equipment: South Australia

• CMF Solutions (XCMG Tasmania): Tasmania. XCMG’s national dealer network has been selected and developed exclusively and with extensive consideration to ensure all dealers are customer-focused, highly capable with service and backup support, and extremely knowledgeable to deliver the ideal machinery solution for each and every customer.

In addition to XCMG Australia’s national dealer network, an extensive array of authorised service agents throughout each state are highly capable in technical service work on the range of XCMG machinery, ensuring both routine and unexpected

service requirements are met in a remarkably timely and efficient manner.

As a result, XCMG continues to build a reputation of trust, reliability and dependability in the Australian market.

Satisfied customers

Customer feedback on XCMG construction equipment has been overwhelmingly positive, with hundreds of happy customers nationwide, including:

• “I have been using XCMG loaders for over 12 years now… two of them have done over 10,000 hours of work and we are impressed with the performance, and these loaders have proved themselves to be dependable and reliable.” – Rockwell Quarries

• “Our mini excavator is smooth, handles well on slopes and rough ground, runs grapples and buckets nicely, and is comfortable to operate and easy to jump in and out of the seat.” – Coastwide Contracting

• “I have no problem lifting blocks. It’s got a tilt blade so I can do my own grading, slew my blade around, it’s got all the attachments and you can put other hydraulic attachments on the boom… and the burst protection valves on the side of the boom are a great safety feature many other machines don’t have.” – Hunter Valley Paintball; and

• “Very impressed with our new roller, love it and performing extremely well.” –Blaizes Earthworx.

For more information about XCMG’s diverse range of machinery, and to contact your nearest dealer throughout Australia, visit xcmg.net.au. LC

XCMG machines are designed and built to perform with unmatched reliability, versatility and durability.

XCMG Australia offers more than 30 models of heavy excavators, mini excavators, wheel loaders, rollers, graders, scissor lifts and boom lifts nationwide.

Whiteman Park Field Day

Measuring recharge of groundwater was highlighted at the first Whiteman Park Field Day for the Recharge Estimation Collaboration (REC) project.

More than 25 representatives of the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER), Whiteman Park staff and hydrological consultants joined The University of Western Australia staff and students at the day-long event.

Associate Professor Sally Thompson, from UWA’s Centre for Water and Spatial Science,

said it was a great day.

“We examined state-of-the-art scientific instruments, inspected soil cores, visited the instrumented sites and ran geophysical measurements together,” Associate Professor Thompson said. “We looked at the data being collected and heard presentations from UWA research students.”

The field day was held to share the work of REC with DWER staff and other

Highlighting groundwater management research.

Estimates of recharge are important for managing groundwater resources sustainably.

“Water, energy and carbon dioxide transport between land and the atmosphere is measured.”

stakeholders. REC is a partnership between UWA, CSIRO and DWER to measure and model recharge to Perth’s aquifers. Estimates of recharge are important for managing groundwater resources sustainably.

Broad range

As part of REC, UWA and DWER have established seven research sites across the 12,000km2 Swan Coastal Plain — near Dandaragan, Gingin, Gnangara, Whiteman Park and Myalup — where water movement, storage, energy, and quality through soils are observed on different land covers and land uses.

Whiteman Park, a unique conservation reserve close to the CBD, hosts two of the sites — one on native banksia woodland and one over a pastured site.

Dr Simone Gelsinari, a Research Associate from UWA’s School of Engineering who coordinates the field sites, said the field day highlighted the broad range of techniques and questions the research can address.

“For example, the Gnangara site measures recharge in areas where pine plantations have been thinned to reduce water use, but also allowed to regenerate because of the importance of pine seeds as a food resource for endangered Carnaby’s black cockatoos,” Dr Gelsinari said.

“Other research sites take advantage of specialised instrumentation such as the Gingin Ozflux site where water, energy and carbon dioxide transport between land and the atmosphere is measured, or strategically important areas, such as the horticultural district at Myalup, where the final REC sites will be installed in December.” LC

“We examined state-of-the-art scientific instruments, inspected soil cores, visited the instrumented sites and ran geophysical measurements together.”

Research sites have been establiched where water movement, storage, energy, and quality through soils are observed on different land covers and land uses.

Equip Exposition Louisville Kentucky

It is with eager anticipation I write from Sydney airport at the start of my journey to Louisville Kentucky to attend the Equip Exposition.

I’ve wanted to attend this show for many years, and finally being on my way to the biggest green-industry Expo in the world is quite exciting. Although it’s 10:00am here in Sydney it’s after 5:00pm in Louisville, so I can justify writing beginning this article from the bar with a beer or two. This is, of course, just to help me become accustomed to the time difference.

It’s big

The scale of Equip Exposition is like nothing we have in Australia. The list of exhibitors is gigantic, as is the size of the venue, and the quality of many of the displays is extraordinary. Many, I would assume, take quite a few days to setup.

There are almost 1000 exhibitors and the outdoor demo area covers a huge 30 acres

of land. The show runs over three days to the public, Wednesday to Friday, as well as a media day on the Tuesday where information is given out and new products revealed to influencers and journalists. Wednesday 9:00am to noon allows exhibitors only to wander the show and network without the crowds, then from 12:00pm until 5:00pm the show is open to the huge public crowds and landscape and lawn professionals.

Pre-registration – the earlier the better – is highly recommended to save on admission. My ticket was purchased a couple of months prior to the show and was only $20US, increasing to $40US a month before the show and registration on the day is $80US.

Thursday was the biggest and busiest day, open from 9:00am to 5:00pm, and Friday from 9:00am to 2:00pm. I spent a few hours on the Wednesday afternoon, all day Thursday, and the majority of Friday at the venue and definitely needed all the time to get around and see everything. I also managed to get

Andrew Tulloch jets to the US for one of landscaping’s biggest international events.

This show was big!

out to Jungle Jim’s Accessory Products headquarters for a tour of its manufacturing plant while in Louisville, followed by a trip to the original Trailerracks manufacturer in the US, the Greentouch facility in Florida.

Snow throw

The number of visitors to the show is outstanding, with around 25,000 people through the gates the carparks look like there’s an international sporting event taking place. There are huge numbers of

landscapers’ pick-up trucks and shuttle busses ferrying people from nearby hotels in a very busy, but well-organised, manner.

I had the pleasure of visiting many of the outdoor power equipment manufacturers’ stands that I’d done test-drive reviews for, and found some sales reps and marketing people had travelled from Australia to attend and help on the US stands.

The majority of stands had US sales and marketing guys running their booths and demo areas, and were very accommodating

and genuinely interested in our country. They were especially keen to hear about the conditions our landscape and lawn-care contractors operate in and the differences in the services offered between our countries. One notable difference in services offered is the huge number of US contactors operating in states that receive Winter snowfalls offer snow clearing when the grass is not growing, giving them year-round reliable income rather than seasonal lawnmowing like here in Australia.

All the best brands were on display.

This year’s Equip Expo was the biggest in its 39-year history.

Ditch Witch had some of the SK range on show.

Masport and Pellenc

One of the first displays I checked out was the Masport stand in the indoor area.

I had a very informative chat with Kris Lazic, an Australian attending his 12th show representing the Briggs & Stratton brand. As in Australia, Masport mowers sold in the US have had a long-standing relationship with Briggs & Stratton. Kris was also involved in the Ag Boss stand, an Australian company showcasing its Briggs & Stratton-powered RAT barrow for the first time at Equip Expo.

Very close to the Masport stand was my favourite battery-powered landscapemaintenance equipment – and arguably the world leaders in landscape battery gear – Pellenc. The Pellenc folks also had a terrific outdoor test area offering a hands-on experience of their amazing products.

Our Pellenc contact in Australia, Luke Bennett, had put me in contact with his

Pellenc had a terrific test area offering a hands-on experience of its amazing products.

Briggs & Stratton lineup.

One of the first displays Andrew checked out was the Masport stand where he met fellow Aussie Kris Lazic.

US counterpart Jeremy Berros, the Battery Powered Tools Director in the USA, who was running the Pellenc stands. Jeremy proved to have a wealth of information and was extremely helpful and obliging. He’s a true professional with a passion for the brand and, I would think, a valuable asset to Pellenc. He was also very interested in the differences in landscape maintenance between our two countries. Unlike Pellenc in Australia, Pellenc USA has three retail stores as well as a dealer network. Jeremy had just moved to Florida to open and run the new retail store in the

state where the growing season hardly varies throughout the year.

I have never seen so many hedges and beautifully maintained gardens, including public spaces as I saw in Florida, and with everything growing much of the time the landscape-maintenance industry in Florida is massive.

EGO

EGO battery-powered products have burst onto the Australian scene in recent years, being popular with both homeowners and commercial operators. EGO had a fantastic

presentation with an indoor display area complete with test track for its new zero-turn steering-wheel mower, along with a large outdoor demo area. I met up with Jason Ellis from Chevron Australia – the EGO distributors here in Australia. Jason showed me through the impressive indoor display area that included some new dedicated commercial gear soon to be released in Australia, as well as an interesting display of EGO’s backpack blower. The blower

Chatting with Jerremy Berros.

Meeting up with Jason Ellis from Chevron Australia –the EGO distributors here.

was constantly showered with water inside a see-through cube, showcasing the weather resistance the products offer. EGO is constantly developing new and improved products, both through in-house research and by listening to the feedback from purchasers of EGO products.

One great new product I had the pleasure of using was its new linetrimmer head which automatically extends the nylon chord when it wears too short, without having to stop and bump the head on the ground. What a great feature.

Wright

Wright Mowers, a very popular and well-built American brand we’ve reviewed in the past, and the inventor of the Stand-on mower, had an exceptional indoor and outdoor area. Wright is distributed in Australia by the well-known COX brand, and while at the outdoor demo area watching a robotic zero-turn mower cutting a demo area without an operator

in the seat I had the pleasure of meeting Jeramiah Wright, a secondgeneration family member working in the business. We had an interesting discussion on the growing popularity of stand-on zero turns in Australia, with the most popular being either ends of the scale: the smallest and the largest. Mid-size machines being predominately sit-downs.

Happy result

Other standout displays included the Toro indoor and outdoor areas, along with Spartan Mowers.

Spartan is imported here by Powerup Lawncare and rebranded as Bushranger, and they’ve become very popular in a short time.

Gravely/Ariens also had an exceptional display with loads of merchandise, as well as a very popular blade-changing competition I took part in. It resembled a pit-lane motorsport garage where a zeroturn mower deck was stood up, exposing the three blades. Contestants queued up for a chance

Wright is distributed in Australia by the well-known COX brand.

to beat previous fastest times for removing and replacing the blades with a rattle gun. It was quite nerve racking. A commentator whipped up the onlookers while the next contenders in line sledged other participants. I managed to get the fastest time for an Australian – so they told me.

I was well off the winning time, but I walked away with some merchandise and a smile on my face.

Recommended

This year’s Equip Expo was the biggest in its 39-year history.

Imagine a landscape show with a fun run on the first day, fireworks, and a couple of evening music concerts to go along with the professional education lectures, courses and exhibits. The Yanks sure know how to put on a show! There was even an app for the event, which I found terrific. It had a map feature that showed your location on the site so you could enter the next exhibit you wished to visit, see where you were, then guide yourself to your destination as you would using Google Maps. Believe me, it came in very handy.

25,000 attendees negotiated their way through the venue. This included 9487 maintenance landscapers, 3487 dealers and 3589 construction landscapers from all US states and 49 countries in total. It was a truly international show.

It took me many years to get there, and I now hope to make Louisville an annual event. I highly recommend anyone in the industry to consider making the journey. LM

Gravely/Ariens had loads of merchandise to check out.

Spartan is imported by Powerup Lawncare and rebranded as Bushranger, and they’ve become very popular in a short time.

The original and most trusted tool racks on the market.

Gravely Pro-Turn EV

Uncompromised performance and a pleasure to operate.

Not compromised compared to conventional engine-powered machines.

With many commercial and industrial property companies specifying their maintenance contractors use electric battery-powered machinery, as well as the push by government in many areas, we

are seeing the big players in the conventional zero-turn mower market shift their focus to developing commercial battery-powered machines.

Gravely is one of the leading quality

commercial brands made in the USA, and I have always been impressed with its machines. It was a pleasure to give the new Gravely Pro-Turn EV a run.

Drive

As first glance it looks just like a modern conventional zero-turn from the Gravely brand, and the bones of the machine are of course the same. That’s a good thing, as Gravely has spent many years developing quality machines.

The 52-inch X-Factor 3 deck is constructed from 7-gauge steel with reinforcements in critical areas.

No fuel costs, no air filters, no oil filters, no spark plugs, no oil, and no pulley bearings or belts to replace.

SPECIFICATIONS

Batteries 4 x 16kWH Fusion Core Lithium Ion

Wheel motors 5kW

Spindle motors 3.5kW

Ground speed 11mph

Cutting width 52 inch (48-inch and 60-inch also available)

Four 16KWH Fusion Core Lithium-Ion batteries provide the power to the ProTurn EV. These are quick-change batteries located at the rear of the machine where the engine would normally be in a conventional machine. The batteries are protected by a hinged hood with struts that lift effortlessly to reveal the power plants.

Driving the mower are two 5KW Next-Gen transaxles that provide instant responsive drive through the lap bar controls and propel the mower to a forward speed of 11mph in fast mode and 8mph in slow mode. These two drive speeds are adjustable in an instant by the flick of a toggle switch.

The response of the drive is different to conventional machines. It’s easy at first to oversteer and takes a little time to get accustomed to, but once familiar it is much easier to control with less effort required to manoeuvre the machine.

Ergos

The 52 inch X-Factor 3 deck is constructed from 7-gauge steel with reinforcements in critical areas. It is the third generation X-Factor deck which has been redesigned to give improved grass dispersion. Different to conventional machines, there are no pulleys or belts and therefore no maintenance on the top of the deck other than debris removal. Conventional spindles are replaced with 3.5kW electric-motor spindles. These electric-drive spindles have a blade-slip feature preventing damage when inevitable hard impacts occur during operation.

A lower bearing enables the drive spindle to be maintained and rebuilt if required. Raising and lowering the deck is via a footoperated lift with a drop-in pin system to select cutting heights. I like the drop-in height selector. It is much easier and quicker for the operator than some other similar designs with the pin inserted from the side.

Gravely is one of the leading quality commercial brands made in the USA.

A very comfortable suspension seat with adjustable operator weight control.

Run time

I know most people’s first question with battery-powered equipment, and especially equipment designed for the commercial market is, “How long is the run time?” Often that is what disappoints.

The Gravely Pro-Turn EV has a runtime of up to six hours, depending on the length and thickness of the grass and the terrain. This is very good considering the size of the machine and its capabilities, although I am sure many would say that’s not a full day’s work. But if you consider time taken to snip edges, blow down and so forth, I’d be confident not too many operators would run their machines for longer than six hours in a day. If you do run your machines longer, the four removable batteries can be changed quickly if you purchase additional batteries, although the batteries, like all good Lithium-Ion batteries, are not cheap.

Warranty

Operating the Gravely Pro-Turn EV is a pleasure, with its quietness benefiting both the operator and bystanders. Its performance is not compromised compared to conventional engine-powered machines, although I did not get the opportunity to use it on long, wet grass. But for general mowing, manoeuvring and drive it’s equal.

This unit starts at a RRP of $53,399 including GST, and includes four batteries and a charger. Yes, it is considerably dearer than petrol-powered machines but… there are no fuel costs, no air filters, no oil filters, no spark plugs, no oil, and no pulley bearings or belts to replace. So over the life of the machine a considerable saving would be made on maintenance and running costs.

Gravely backs the new Pro-Turn EV with an exceptional commercial warranty, offering a massive 5-year/1500-hour warranty, including a no-hour limit for the first two years.

That’s terrific peace of mind for anyone still sceptical on battery-powered gear. LM

A very comfortable suspension seat with adjustable operator weight control ensures operator comfort, an essential feature with this type of machine being used for extended periods.

Operating the Gravely Pro-Turn EV is a pleasure, with its quietness benefiting both the operator and bystanders.

Runtime of up to six hours.

Four removable batteries can be changed quickly. Improved grass dispersion.

Back up!

How-to-lift programs not doing the job

Heads of Workplace Safety Authorities

(HWSA) has reported important shortcomings in the manual-handling training available to Australian workers. Incorrect lifting techniques can lead to various injuries, and several safety organisations have come up with improvements in training methods around lifting.

These include:

• Consulting with workers to assess risks and hazards, and reviewing current training systems

• Implementing control measures for possible lifting and hazardous manual tasks at the workplace, and

• Ensuring information provided to workers is adequate in covering lifting safety.

“Industry, business, unions, health-andsafety professionals and training providers should not promote, provide, or use how-tolift training as a sole or primary strategy to meet legislative requirements or to control hazardous manual task risks,” a recent report from HWSA read. “Instead, duty holders should design the work to be safe

in the first place, adhere to the hierarchy of controls and provide suitable and adequate training to workers.”

Peak bodies who authored the paper include HWSA members Comcare, SafeWork NSW, SafeWork SA, Workplace Health and Safety Queensland, WorkSafe Tasmania, WorkSafe Victoria, WorkSafe WA and WorkSafe New Zealand.

SafeWork NSW review

A familiar former judge is heading up a second review into SafeWork NSW.

Retired Supreme Court judge, the Honourable Robert McDougall KC, will lead the review into SafeWork NSW ordered by the state government, and will look into the governance, operations and culture of SafeWork NSW.

It’s a separate enquiry to a performance audit being done by NSW Auditor-General Margaret Crawford.

“Mr McDougall’s review provides an opportunity to get started now and can more fulsomely cover issues such as culture than

is possible through a performance audit,” Customer Service and Digital Government Minister Victor Dominello said.

Justice McDougall has been part of previous reviews into iCare and NSW’s State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) during 2020-21.

“NSW Parliament passed legislation in 2016 to abolish WorkCover and replace it with iCare, SIRA and SafeWork NSW as three separate entities,” Mr Dominello said. “SafeWork NSW is the only one of these three entities that has not been independently reviewed since the reforms. For that reason, a review of the operations of SafeWork NSW is now appropriate.

“This review will look at issues raised and provide the government with independent insights that will be both powerful and instructive.”

Opposition spokesperson Sophie Cotsis raised concerns about safety breaches not being followed up by SafeWork via on-site inspections in October 2022. LC

Maintaining proper form is a must to keep backs healthy in the long term.

The Mower Supastore

One of Brisbane’s premier outdoor power equipment centres

The Mower Supastore was established in December 2003 and has fast become one of Brisbane’s premier outdoor power equipment centres. With a massive showroom and a fully equipped onsite workshop, The Mower Supastore is ideally suited to meet all of your outdoor power needs.

• Current location for 20 yrs – New owner Chris Doosey & Troy Horan

• One of the largest stores in SE Qld – located in Brendale

• Large range of brands – Toro, Rover, Polaris, Stihl, Victa, Echo, Atom, Cub Cadet, Bushranger, Gravely, Cox, Shindaiwa, Honda, Masport, Mowmaster & Solo

• Large machinery workshop & showroom

• Huge range of parts & accessories

• Open seven days a week

• Online store

• Friendly staff with years of experience

• Huge range of stock for the Summer season

Ten good reasons to purchase your next outdoor power equipment from The Mower Supastore rather than a Hardware Chain.

Beyond net zero

Transitioning to an EcoTeq electric zero-turn improved running costs, operator safety, and machine uptime for TW Horticultural.

Before Brenton Waite from TW Horticultural Services purchased an EcoTeq 100% electric Rival ride-on mower, he and his business partner Craig had crunched the numbers. They had figured out the cost benefit of going electric and knew they’d be ahead on fuel, maintenance, and parts costs. Plus, it would be a big tick towards running the sustainable business they set out to be.

Brenton and Craig were also keen to explore the WHS benefits of switching to an electric mower. Reduced noise, less vibration, and zero emissions would all benefit their operators.

Quiet

TW Horticultural Services is a garden-based landscape maintenance company that started its operations in the Ipswich area of South-East Queensland in March 2021. Maintaining streetscapes is a core part of what they do, which means their machines are working for many hours each day.

Brenton was really surprised by how quiet and comfortable the Rival was.

“Our guys still wear hearing protection on the machine to alleviate the noise as much as possible, but you can have a phone conversation while it’s running. It’s pretty much silent.”

“The seats are so much better. That’s another reason why our guys are fighting to go on it! We’ve got operators who are between 6'5" and 5'2", and everyone’s comfortable on the Rival.”

Ready for the future

While test driving the Rival, Brenton was quick to recognise what a powerful and efficient addition the commercial EcoTeq electric zero turn mower would be to their outdoor-maintenance fleet.

“We advertise the electric mower and have it in our capability statement. People comment on it when they see it,” said Brenton.

Brenton also noted the company’s reduction in fuel costs has been significant. When working out the cost benefit of buying an electric mower, they based their fuel running costs on $1.60 to $1.65 per litre. This was before fuel prices skyrocketed and the federal government removed the 22-cent excise in September 2022.

“We charge our unit three times on a heavy week,” he explained. “It takes four to six hours overnight. We just plug it into the wall and away it goes. Our petrol cost is between 30 and 40 litres per week on a heavy load. We’ve already saved somewhere between $2,500 to $3,000 since our electric machine became operational about 36 weeks ago.”

Zero Emission Solutions

TW Horticultural is very happy with its EcoTeq 100% electric Rival ride-on mower.

WHS benefits of switching to an electric mower include reduced noise, less vibration, and zero emissions.

Less downtime for maintenance

Impressed with EcoTeq’s after-sales care, Brenton described the ease and cost-benefit of getting the Rival serviced compared to his petrol mower.

“EcoTeq’s maintenance division called us and booked in the service. If we needed someone to come out to fix something, if we let them know before midday, they’d send someone out that same day for repairs, otherwise it’s the next day,” said Brenton. “But they haven’t needed repairs yet.

“Generally, we go through maybe 3 or 4 punctures over a 12-month period, and possible replacements, too. We’ve had no issues with the wheels on the front or rear,” said Brenton, noting yet another saving.

So many reasons to choose Rival

“We’re really, really impressed with the machine,” beamed Brenton. “It’s been a real game-changer, and for multiple reasons our guys prefer it, and wherever possible, we use it instead of our petrol mowers.”

It doesn’t hurt to be noticed for all the right reasons, too.

“Feedback from clients, the public, and others in the industry we come in contact with — they’re quite impressed with the machine and want to have a chat about it. We’re very proud of it,” says Brenton.

Need to see it to believe it? EcoTeq is glad to offer commercial operations a complimentary demonstration. Call 1800 100 150, or log on ecoteq.com.au/ contact-us/ to get started.

Petrol versus electric maintenance costs

The cost benefit of going electric meant being ahead on fuel, maintenance, and parts costs. Plus, it was a big tick towards running a sustainable business.

A powerful and efficient addition to the outdoor-maintenance fleet.

Step Up Your Productivity With the Cub Cadet Ultima Series™ ZTX5

The Ultima Series™ ZTX5 features a professional-grade build that delivers enhanced strength, comfort and durability so you can productively cut at constant speeds, even in challenging conditions.

With unrivalled strength, comfort, control, and best-in-class cutting performance, the Cub Cadet Ultima Series™ ZTX5 will bring you one step closer to giving your customers their best lawn yet.

Enhanced strength begins with professional-grade Kawasaki® engines that cut across large areas with ease and are backed by a comprehensive twoyear commercial warranty. The strength of the ZTX5 range is bolstered by Dual Hydro-Gear™ ZT Transmissions that give a powerful, consistent performance and a smooth ride.

Built tough for demanding jobs, the Ultima Series™ ZTX5 features a continuous ninegauge tubular-steel frame for enhanced strength that boasts heavy-duty fabricated decks from 122cm (48") to a huge 152cm (60"), giving added durability, productivity and peace of mind for years to come.

Quality cut and comfort

Quality cutting and stability is at the Ultima’s core.

The range has an offset front axle that delivers precise trimming for a professional cut with fewer clumps and finer clippings, as well as larger premium tyres for increased stability and traction. Stability and control are enhanced, with an improved floor-pan design and a soft-grip rubber insert delivering less vibration and providing a smoother, more comfortable ride.

The Ultima Series™ ZTX5 offers next-level comfort. The fully adjustable command centre is designed for ease of use and

control from top to tail, and patented ergo lap bars with over-moulded hand grips offer comfortable mowing for larger areas. The automotive-inspired, fully adjustable high-back seat with padded armrests keeps you in all-day comfort, plus, advanced polymer seat isolators help to deliver smooth, comfortable cutting at maximum forward speeds of up to 14kmph.

Safe and efficient

The Ultima’s seamless maintenance features will also impress, with a highly accessible hinged floor pan for easy deck access, as well as maintenance-free spindles that make routine maintenance quick and easy. That means more time mowing and less time servicing and maintaining your zero turn.

Smart additional extras will have you working efficiently through your workday, such as electric PTO for easy engagement and disengagement of the blades, simple dial-in cutting-height adjustment with 15 positions, a handy onboard multitool and in-built LED headlights for low-light work. The addition of the Rollover Protection System (ROPS) provides added safety and flexibility for professional operators.

The range

The Cub Cadet Ultima Series™ ZTX5 is available in the following models:

• ZTX5 48 – powered by a 23hp Kawasaki engine and with a122cm (48") fabricated deck

• ZTX5 54 – powered by a 24hp Kawasaki engine and with 137cm (54") fabricated deck; and

• ZTX5 60 – powered by a 24hp Kawasaki engine and with a 152cm (60") fabricated deck.

All three models are fitted with Dual HydroGear™ ZT-3200 transmissions.

The Ultima ZTX5 offers a five-year fabricated deck-shell warranty, as well as a three-year domestic/two-year commercial unit and engine warranty. LM

The Cub Cadet ZTX5 60 features a 152cm (60") fabricated deck and is powered by a 24hp Kawasaki engine.

A fully adjustable, high-back seat with padded armrests gives all-day comfort.

A fully adjustable command centre designed for ease of use and control.

What’s in your backyard?

Costa and Junior Landcare announce winners of photo competition.

From the small town of Delegate in NSW to Warddeken Indigenous Protected Area (IPA) in the Northern Territory, hundreds of entries poured in from schools and children across Australia for the ‘What’s in your backyard?’ photo competition, hosted by Gardening Australia’s Costa Georgiadis and Junior Landcare.

Connecting

Created to inspire kids to explore and connect with their local environments, the competition invited children to take photos of the flora and fauna in their ‘backyard’, and then share with Costa why their photo was important to them.

“We asked kids to put on their nature goggles and look at what’s living in the world all around them – from the local community garden or creek or sand dune by the beach, to the plants growing on their balcony,” said Costa. “It’s all about little opportunities; an invitation to let curiosity and inquiry roam free and connect to the idea that nature is

not something you go to, but is something all around you. Connections begin to be made that really engage children with new ways of thinking about their relationship to nature and the environment.”

The Junior Landcare ambassador added: “While the winning snaps are sensational, each and every entry has blown me away. For me, the best part has been showing each other what’s going on in the world around us, whether that’s down on the peninsula, in the landscapes of the Grampians, up in the rainforest in the

Daintree or out in the dry lands of the red centre. Together, each entry showed us that nature is awesome and the more you engage with it, the more you see it.”

Expert

Joining Costa and the Junior Landcare team to help choose the winning entries was Jayden Gunn, a freelance wildlife photographer and passionate conservationist. Together they reviewed over 800 photos and accompanying descriptions, with two entries tying for top spot.

Costa Georgiadis.

SA winner Django Westmoreland, 13, Black Shouldered Kite.

The 2022 ‘What’s in your backyard?’ winners are:

Overall National Winners:

Jaya Hunn, 11, ACT for Sticky Sundews and Finn Thomson, 16, Queensland for Adapt and Survive

Winning School:

St Brigid’s Primary School, Gisborne, Victoria

State and Territory Winners:

ACT Winner: Jaya Hunn, 11, for Sticky Sundews

NSW Winner: Kasey Morgan, 12, for Cloud over Crop

NT Winner: Eli Cooper, 11, Native Passion Fruit

QLD Winner: Finn Thomson, 16, Adapt and Survive

SA Winner: Django Westmoreland, 13, Black-Shouldered Kite

TAS Winner: Sefton Larner, 10, Frog Camouflage

VIC Winner: Amber Matheson, 5, Blue Bee on a Blue Flower

WA Winner: Alice Lawrance, 12, The Sun and the Flowers

The ‘What’s in your backyard?’ campaign is a key activity of Junior Landcare’s Learning Centre, an online platform that features fun, easy-to-use learning activities developed by education professionals to help children be aware, empowered and active in caring for their local environment. Find out more at juniorlandcare.org.au

WA winner Alice Lawrance, 12, The Sun and the Flowers.

ACT and joint overall winner, Jaya Hunn, 11, Stick Sundews.

NT Winner Eli Cooper, 11, Native Passion Fruit.

Rewarding

According to Emma Barker, teacher at St Brigid’s Primary School, who submitted entries from almost every student at the school: “I am really proud of what they

entered and for me it was such a lovely experience to hear all the positive ways they experience nature and how it made them feel so appreciative of what is in their own backyard when they look closely.

“I was also surprised, not having given them any prompting or scaffolding, how overwhelmingly happy, calm, relaxed and joyous they felt in their interactions with nature. They were really inspired by

NSW winner Kasey Morgan, 12, Cloud over Crops.

the sharing of their peers’ photos and accompanying writing. Initially they thought it would be hard to write 50 words, but the challenge was in fact trying to cut out words to keep it to, or under, this limit and still convey the extent of their connections.”

Each winner will receive a camera, plus the national overall winner and winning school will receive book hampers packed with titles to inspire environmental action. The winning school also gets to look forward to a visit from Costa in 2023 to check out its environmental projects and explore its ‘backyard’.

High standard

Finally, given the number of outstanding submissions to the competition, honourable mentions were awarded to a number of children and schools that entered, who will each be receiving a certificate in recognition of their entries. LM

About Junior Landcare

Junior Landcare provides children the opportunity to play an active role in ensuring the safe future of their environment. Activities in the Junior Landcare program help young Australians to develop skills, share knowledge, create experiences and foster connections with place and community. Junior Landcare encourages continuous participation from childhood to adulthood so the children of today, become the landcarers of the future.

Victoria winner Amber Matheson, 5, Blue Bee on a Blue Flower.

Tasmania winner Sefton Larner, 10, Frog camouflage.

Queensland and joint overall winner, Finn Thomson, 16, Adapt and Survive.

Masport MC900 chipper

Designed, engineered and tested in NZ, the new Masport MC900 premium chipper is the perfect solution for maintaining your garden or lifestyle block.

The large self-feeding hopper safely lets branches up to 70mm pass through the machine with ease through the single lever blade engagement. The chipper itself can be powered by a choice of genuine Honda engines, including the powerful 6.5 horsepower GX200 engine, as both a pull- or electric-start option. Alternatively a reliable XR950 Briggs & Stratton engine can power your Masport chipper, drawing the same horsepower as the Honda GX200.

These powerful engines, combined with the three-blade special tool-steel cutting blades, provide a finer chip size, perfect for composting. Three fan blades on the flywheel produce powerful airflow that effortlessly discharges the mulch through the 1270mm, high-discharge outlet.

The adjustable deflector allows for the mulched material to be guided directly into a trailer, wheelie bin or garden bed. An optional chipper collection bag is also available to help dispose or re-use your broken-down mulch and chippings. For manoeuvrability, the MC900 has a balanced design to spread the weight, with large heavy-duty wheels and positioned handle on the chute for easy transportation. The option of a tow hitch is also available for your vehicle to move the chipper longer distances.

Designed and tested at Masport headquarters in New Zealand, competitively priced and with a four-year domestic warranty, the MC900 cannot be overlooked in the chipper range for 2023. Units will be available to Masport specialist dealers across Australasia in mid-January.

Speak to your local Masport dealer today.

Masport is a proud supporter and member of the Battery Stewardship Council in Australia

Masport contributes to the Battery Stewardship Council as designers and importers of batteries.

Responsible for managing batteries from design through to their end of life, the Battery Stewardship Council has looked at the entire supply chain and considered the part each section of the industry plays.

Masport takes its part of the process seriously and aims to design batteries to be free of toxins, or at least less toxic, less flammable, rechargeable, and reusable where possible.

As a manufacturer of batteries, Masport ensures safe work practices, clear labelling

of batteries, and simple communication for consumers to know how to recycle them. Straightforward labelling is also important for

recyclers to know exactly what components they contain so they can be disassembled safely.

thick-walled aluminium shaft tube for maximum stability and optimal weight balance, and a fast, easy blade replacement on the line head.

The 23L-B curved-shaft line trimmer is lightweight and easy to use. The powerful 22.5cc 0.7kW engine features a soft-start system that makes starting a breeze. The curved shaft is highly manoeuvrable, making it ideal for trimming around trees, along fence lines and edging the lawn. The 23L-S shares the same power and starting system as the curved shaft with low weight, soft-start system, centrifugal clutch. Well thought out grip ergonomics in a straight shaft line trimmer ensures smooth operation in a natural working posture.

With the benefit of a fast-starting, powerful, 0.9kW, 30cc two-stroke engine and robust construction, the 130L line trimmer is the right choice for clearing wild-growing grasses and undergrowth. Being easy to start, the powerful two-stroke engine springs easily into life. The three-tooth grass blade and bump-feed line-trimming head make the 130L suitable for residential and lifestyle properties.

With a 1.5kW engine and a displacement of 40cc, the 140B brushcutter doesn‘t shy away from strong, wild growth and bushes. A harness suspension rail, double-strap shoulder harness and easy-to-adjust bull bar handle make this brushcutter easy to customise to the respective user. The hip protector offers significant relief during operation, increasing the user’s comfort and support. This high-torque brushcutter gives great flexibility – it comes with a three-tooth grass blade and rapid-feed line-trimmer head. A simple twist of the handle also makes it easy to transport or ready for compact storage.

For greater peace of mind, these solo products come with a four-year warranty. For more information, please visit solobyal-ko.com.au. Please speak to your local solo dealer regarding stock availability.

A new year calls for new boots

Safety is intrinsic to Blundstone’s heritage. And knowing when to replace your boots and choosing the right work boot for you is the key to being safe on site. The brand is committed to supporting a safe and healthy working environment from the ground up, all-year round.

Blundstone knows personal safety starts with the correct footwear.

When to replace your boots

It’s important to ensure wearers of safety boots are in the most appropriate footwear for their job, and back to work is a timely period to assess whether boots need replacing. Blundstone suggests looking out for the following signs:

• Toe-cap exposure

• Leather wear – torn, worn, split or damaged. Make sure to check the welt area where the leather and sole join

• Sole wear—worn down, inadequate tread

• Have the boots been subjected to significant impact or trauma?

• Do they no longer provide comfort and have excessive wear?

• Have they been exposed to harmful chemicals or products?

Choosing the right work boot

Blundstone offers a range of fit-for-purpose work and safety boots suitable for a variety of industries; building and construction,

electrical trades, light industry, landscaping, mining…the list goes on.

Every workplace environment poses different risk factors for on-site workers. Risks can vary enormously and it’s important these are assessed before determining the best footwear protection. Blundstone suggests consideration should be given to the underfoot conditions, such as uneven surfaces, smooth or slippery surfaces, or wet or muddy conditions, along with the physical activities you may be undertaking

in the boots, such as jumping in and out of trucks, standing on concrete flooring or using ladders.

When choosing fit-for-purpose boots, Blundstone recommends considering the following:

• Safety toe cap—does the work undertaken require steel or composite safety? Does it require impact resistance, or both cut and impact resistance?

• Quality uppers—are the boots designed using breathable, protective, and supportive materials to maintain excellent foot health?

• Sole design and material—is the tread pattern and outsole material appropriate for the work conditions? Do the boots need to provide high-temperature heat resistance?

• Design—does the boot offer increased ankle and calf protection? Does the boot offer a personalised fit with laces? Do you require easy-on/easy-off functions such as a zip or elastic side?

RotoFlex® by Blundstone

Customer-driven research undertaken by Blundstone identified the true needs of safety footwear users by analysing what Australian tradies and construction workers expected from their footwear and the problems they were experiencing with their existing safety boots.

When it’s time to return to the worksite, iconic brand Blundstone has your safety footwear covered

Back to work is a timely period to assess boots.

Blundstone knows personal safety starts with the correct footwear.

Key findings of the research indicated the main concerns and priorities for wearers were:

• Safety and support—ankle roll/ musculoskeletal injuries/avoiding trips and falls

• Durability—quality of componentry and materials

• Comfort—pain-free, all-day comfort with ankle flexibility and movement

• Thermal regulation with ventilation to increase airflow and reduce sweaty feet

• Sole—ergonomics, longevity, stability, and traction.

The result of this research is the RotoFlex range.

Every component used in Blundstone’s RotoFlex range has been researched, tested, and trialled in collaboration with the University of Tasmania’s School of Health Science’s biomechanics experts. Blundstone’s design team considered several options for each element of RotoFlex to ensure a truly innovative, betterperforming safety boot. RotoFlex offers the convenience of a zip side for easy-on/ easy-off and laces for a personalised fit, proving a favourite feature in Australian trades.

The RotoFlex range boasts six different styles, four unisex available in five-inch and six-inch, and two women’s specific styles. With water-resistant uppers, durable, heavy-duty zips and streamlined TPU toe guards, RotoFlex is the benchmark for the safety-footwear market.

#8560 unisex 6-inch safety boot

The RotoFlex #8560 in wheat nubuck is the hero of Blundstone’s new range. Offering superior safety and comfort with every step, the boot is packed with features to support a wearer on the worksite all day long. Built strong from the ground up, the #8560 boot offers a durable TPU outsole, a zoned airflow footbed, composite toe cap and an over-arching comfort system biomechanically designed to increase stability and manoeuvrability.

#8863 women’s 6-inch safety boot

Built for all-day comfort, the #8863 in stone nubuck has been designed and made especially for women, including the footbed, which is shaped and constructed with a softer PU to provide optimal support for a women’s build.

Using the latest biomechanical technology for superior stability and flexibility, these women’s specific boots are an Australian first in providing composite safety in footwear. The RotoFlex range’s Fortalite® toe cap provides lightweight, compressionresistant protection, suitable for a variety of industries.

Put Blundstone’s innovation to work— available at participating retailers.

Blundstone offers a range of fit-for-purpose work and safety boots.

A zip side for easy-on/easy-off and laces for a personalised fit are favourites in Australian trades.

Built for all-day comfort.

Tuscan Path

Affordable,

With a variety of applications from driveways to pathways, courtyards to verandas, alfresco areas to balconies, and pool to spa surrounds, Tuscan Path Natural Stone Pavers are both versatile and extremely durable.

The stylish designer pavers have an R-11 or R-12 anti-slip surface and can withstand harsh Australian conditions. As

Natural Stone Pavers

Mid Grey Granite 400 x 600 x 200mm. Extremely strong and durable, granite is one of the world’s hardest wearing products.

Light Grey Granite 400 x 600 x 200mm.

The Tuscan Path Natural Stone Paver range consists of Bluestone, Sandstone, Light Grey Granite and Mid Grey Granite. Sizing options vary by material, but consist of 400 x 400 x 200mm, 400 x 600 x 200mm or 800 x 400 x 200mm.

Visit the website to calculate how much product you need, view product specific sizes and installation instructions. Go to tuscanpath.com.au.

Instagram and Facebook: @tuscanpath

The range of Tuscan Path products also includes Porcelain Pavers, Pebbles, Pots, Edging and Screens.

Tuscan Path makes aspirational landscape style affordable, with designer landscape at warehouse prices, and is sold exclusively at Bunnings. Head in store to Bunnings or visit bunnings.com.au

Sandstone 400 x 400 x 200mm.

Bluestone 400 x 600 x 200mm.

Grants awarded for soil carbon measurement technology trials

The Australian Government has announced the first round of grant recipients under the National Soil Carbon Innovation Challenge—Development and Demonstration Grants.

Eight projects will share $28.9 million in grants to accelerate the development of promising technologies that have undergone feasibility studies.

Grant recipients

Agrimix Pty Ltd

The grant recipients will develop and demonstrate innovative soil organic carbon measurement technologies across a range of Australian agricultural landscapes

Fully integrated SOC measurement using CO2 flux, remote sensing and models: $3,233,725

Agriprove Pty Ltd

Multi-Band SAR and Optics as a Novel Soil Carbon Measurement Technology: $9,240,000

Carbon Link Operations Pty Ltd

Technology for lower cost & accurate Australia-wide soil carbon projects: $2,305,674

Carbon Project Australia Pty Ltd

Commercialise Carbon Project device and data analysis software: $2,401,520

Cloud Agronomics Pty Ltd

Kicking the $3/Ha goal by fusing SOC samples with remote sensing/ML” $1,819,621

Hone Carbon Pty Ltd

On-farm deployment of Hone Lab Red, a low-cost SOC measurement tool

Sensorc Pty Ltd

Rapid Assessment of Soil Parameters (RASP) to manage & quantify soil carbon: $2,250,928

The University of Queensland

Proximal and remote sensing for low-cost soil carbon stock estimation: $4,346.681

and production systems. The $50 million National Soil Carbon Innovation Challenge is part of the Government’s commitment to supporting carbon farming. The Government is taking steps to better equip Australian farmers and land managers to reduce emissions, increase carbon sequestration and participate in carbon markets.

The Challenge aims to reduce the cost of reliably measuring soil organic carbon. This will improve the accessibility of information and measurement tools for farmers and land managers to manage their soils and demonstrate how they are reducing Australia’s emissions.

The Challenge aims to reduce the cost of reliably measuring soil organic carbon.

What insurance do I need for my business?

Once you have opened a new business, insurance can be one of the most important factors in ensuring you stay open.

According to Daniel Holmes, Fitzpatrick General Manager, your first priority should be ensuring you have in place the statutory insurances all businesses are required to have.

You need workers’ compensation if you have employees. Also, take care to ensure you take out this cover even if you have a proprietary limited company and you are the only employee. You need motorvehicle insurance if the business has vehicles, including CTP.

“When putting insurance in place, it’s also important to ensure assets are appropriately valued,” explained Holmes.

It’s also important to take out public-, and possibly, product-liability insurance. These policies can cover bodily injury or property damage to the public as a result of running your business and if you sell products.

Assets covered

Make sure the equipment, stock and the building are protected. This means in the event of a fire or loss causing damage to the assets you own, the cost of their replacement cost can be covered. It’s also important to have business continuity/interruption insurance so the business can keep running even after it has suffered a serious incident covered by insurance.

Fitzpatrick brokers are able to use a tool to identify risks to which the business is exposed, based on the claims other businesses in the sector have made.

“Every business has very different exposures,” said Holmes, “so the insurance a sandwich shop may need will be very different to the insurance for a landscaper or gardener.”

Experienced brokers can assist clients to determine the relative risks to which each business is exposed. But it’s up to the client, ultimately, to decide which covers to put in place.

When putting insurance in place, it’s also important to ensure assets are appropriately valued, so in the event they are destroyed or damaged, their full replacement cost can be covered.

Professional advice

The best advice is to work with a broker to establish the full scope of the enterprise’s exposures to ensure the right insurance is in place so it can continue to operate, even if the risks to which it is exposed come to fruition.

Important note

This article provides information rather than financial product or other advice. The content of this article, including any information contained in it, has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. For more information or questions on business insurance or your own policy, please contact Fitzpatrick & Co. Insurance Brokers on 03 8544 1600 or email: insure@fitzpatrick.com.au OR visit our website at fitzpatrick.com.au

For

Parties. e.g You are contracted to trim branches at a busy intersection. An unforeseen mechanical issue with a chainsaw takes longer to complete, increasing costs to the third party. This policy responds where there is no physical loss or damage to Third Parties but a Financial Loss only.

$2,00 0,000

Covers OHS & Environmental Fines. by authorities this policy covers you.

To assist with cash flow, monthly payment plans are available

If you’re just starting out in business, insurance should be a top priority.

Growing in the garden

Research at the University of South Australia is showing the simple act of gardening can deliver unique learning experiences for primary school children, helping them engage with their curriculum while also encouraging a sustainable future.

Partnering with teachers and primary school students in a weekly gardening project, researchers at the University of South Australia found working in the garden had multiple learning benefits, from transdisciplinary learning, to fostering sustainability and global citizenship. In the Australian curriculum, sustainability is described as a ‘cross curriculum priority’ indicative of the transdisciplinary nature of learning for sustainable and harmonious interaction with the environment.

Vital

Adjunct UniSA researcher, Dr David G. Lloyd, said it’s vital children have opportunities to appreciate and connect with nature.

“Gardening can open a whole new world of interest and opportunity for children,” Lloyd offered. “Working in a community garden is not only about growing edible food; it’s also about connecting to place and nature, as well as grasping the importance of sustainability.

“Community or school food gardens can help us to better understand the value of living locally and demonstrate how we can be more self-sufficient. They show us how to live with a lower carbon footprint, and how we can enjoy our connection to our natural world.

“In this project we found that primaryaged children can adopt sustainability

principles simply by growing their own food, connecting with others, and respecting the environment. And at the same time, we showed that transdisciplinary learning can occur throughout the gardening experience.”

Demographic

The project engaged Year 4 (aged 9-10 years) and Year 1 (aged 5-6 years) primaryschool students in a three-hour-a-week gardening activity, where they grew their own food in the Old School Community Garden in Stirling, South Australia. Their gardening activities were also supplemented by school-based learning about the children’s ‘in-field’ experiences.

Co-researcher and UniSA Associate Professor, Kathryn Paige, said the gardening project illustrated how out-of-the-box activities can incorporate the school curriculum.

“Finding different ways to engage students is an ongoing challenge for teachers. But when we find something that works on multiple levels – like gardening –

it’s an activity that should be encouraged,” Assoc Professor Paige said.

“For example, in the community garden children learned maths when they counted out plants and measured distances between seedlings; chemistry when they tested the pH levels of soil and diluted liquid fertilisers; science and biology when they discovered facts about plants and ecosystems; plus, literacy when they read instructions and retold their experiences at school.

“They also improved their social skills as they engaged with their peers.

“The fundamental importance of this activity was holistic learning: connecting to the world around us, the community in which we live, and understanding how we all interact.

“We’re living in a time of globalisation, where we’re reaching social, environmental, and economic limits.

“By encouraging teachers to embrace immersive, whole-of-curriculum initiatives that connect education and sustainability principles, we’re positioning the younger generation up for success.” LM

The Landscape Association 2022 Landscape Excellence Awards

Landscape Supplier/ Trade Service of the Year Winner - Artisan Exterior

Commercial & Civil Construction Over $3 Million Gold and Best in Category – GJ’s Landscapes Pty Ltd – Macquarie University Central Courtyard Precinct

Apprentice of the Year Landscape Construction

Winner – Campbell Wood from Urban Grounds and Gardens

Commercial & Civil Construction

$750,000 - $1.5 Million

Gold and Best in Category – Co-Ordinated Landscapes Pty Ltd –Bicentennial Park Upgrade Projects Stage 1

Apprentice of the Year Parks & Gardens

Winner – Christopher Stenta from Regal Innovations Pty Ltd

Commercial & Civil Construction

$250,000 to $750,000

Gold and Best in Category – Urban Landscape Projects – St Paul of the Cross Catholic Primary School, Dulwich Hill

Commercial & Civil Construction up to $250,000 Gold and Best in Category – Outdoor Retreats Landscaping –Paddington Public School

Maintenance Commercial Parklands / Open Spaces

Gold and Best in Category – Green Options – GIO Stadium

Maintenance Commercial Resorts/ Retirement Communities / Educational Campuses Gold and Best in Category – Green Options – Pymble Ladies College

Maintenance Commercial Retail / Business Parks Gold and Best in Category – Urban Grounds and Gardens –Catalyst Business Park

Residential Maintenance Multi Housing Gold and Best in Category – Green Options – Wentworth Point Estate

Residential Maintenance Up to 1000m2 Gold and Best in Category – Fifth Season Landscapes – Clareville

Residential Maintenance Over 1000m2 Gold and Best in Category – Green Revolution Gardens Pty Ltd –Escarpment Gardens

Residential Construction Up to $50,000 Gold and Best in Category – Elegant Landscapes – Bellevue Hill

Residential Construction $50,000 to $100,000 Gold and Best in Category

Sand & Stone Landscapes - Beresford Avenue

Residential Construction $100,000 to $150,000 Gold and Best in Category –Dreamscapes Landscaping Services Pty

Residential Construction $150,000 to $350,000 Gold and Best in Category

Fifth Season Landscapes – Clareville

Residential Construction Over $350,000 Gold and Best in Category

Fifth Season Landscapes – Northbridge

Residential Design 80m2 to 200m2 Gold and Best in Category

Residential Design Over 200m2 Gold and Best in Category

Fifth Season Landscapes – Clareville

Ltd – The Morley Project

Adam Robinson Design – Sanctuary House

Residential Design

Husqvarna Landscaper of the Year

Residential Construction

Residential Maintenance

Husqvarna Landscaper of the Year

Winner – Adam Robinson Design – Sanctuary House

Husqvarna Landscaper of the Year Commercial & Civil Construction Winner – GJ’s Landscapes Pty Ltd Macquarie University Central Courtyard precinct

Winner – Fifth Season Landscapes – Northbridge

Husqvarna Landscaper of the Year

Winner – Green Revolution Gardens Pty Ltd – Escarpment Gardens

Husqvarna Landscaper of the Year Commercial Maintenance Winner – Green Options – GIO Stadium

2022 Victorian Landscape Awards

After a very successful first half of the financial year, LIAWA now turns its attention to its up-and-coming biannual Awards of Excellence in March 2023 at Optus Stadium.

A striking coastal pool and landscape design on the Mornington Peninsula, and a creative reimagination of the outdoor space at a school in Melbourne’s west, have taken out the top landscaping gongs at the 2022 Victorian Landscape Awards, announced this week in Melbourne.

C.O.S. Design

Camberwell-based design studio C.O.S. Design, led by Design Principal Steve Taylor, has scooped the pool at the 2022 Victorian Landscape Awards, taking home five awards, including the coveted Residential Landscape of the Year Award, for a sophisticated pool-and-garden design in Mount Martha.

Praised by the judges for its eclectic mix of plants, textures, materials and usable spaces, the landscape features a spectacular wet-edge pool flanked by locally sourced stone walls, creating privacy and drama. Featuring a combination of textural coastal and traditional plantings, the design is a functional and sophisticated response to the client brief, overcoming the challenge of a sloping block to create a striking, family-friendly landscape that sits comfortably in the surrounding coastal environment.

PTA Landscapes

Transforming the outdoor spaces at Mount St Joseph Girls’ College in Altona secured the Commercial Landscape of the Year Award for PTA Landscapes. Working in

collaboration with the Melbourne Catholic Archdiocese, the design creatively reconceives the school environment by creating multifunctional outdoor spaces to accommodate student gatherings, performances, activities, workshops and outdoor learning.

The PTA team also took home multiple awards, including the Commercial Landscape Construction (over $1.5m) Award for the Altona project, and the Hard Structures in the Landscape Award for the Victorian Emergency Services Memorial in the historical Treasury Gardens in East Melbourne.

More winners

The Victorian Landscape Awards are an annual event that recognises excellence in landscape design and construction in Victoria. The award winners were chosen by a panel of judges from across the landscaping industry.

Other winning projects include an early learning centre playground in Glen Waverley using natural materials to stimulate creative play, a sharp and crisp modern residential landscape in Elsternwick, a modern pool project in Keilor East which stunned the judges with its exceptional design and execution,

Residential Landscape of the Year – Mount Martha Project by COS Design.

Steve Taylor and the team at C.O.S. Design accepting one of many awards on the night.

LVML CEO, Megan Flower.

and a compact residential construction in South Melbourne delivering multi-faceted use of the space for a modest budget.

AbCam Horticulture took out the Nic van Diemen Award for excellence shown by a first-time entrant, while Warners Nurseries and C. Fulton’s were joint winners of the Supplier of the Year Award.

LVML CEO, Megan Flower, commented that the calibre of entrants this year

Winners

Residential Landscape of the Year:

C.O.S. Design, Mount Martha project

Commercial Landscape of the Year:

PTA Landscapes, Mount St Joseph Girls’ College, Altona

Softscaping in the Landscape:

C.O.S. Design, Mount Martha project

Sustainable Landscape:

UDL Group, Point Lonsdale

Residential Landscape Construction ($30,000 - $75,000):

Normark Landscapes, South Melbourne project

Residential Landscape Construction Over $250,000):

Esjay Landscapes + Pools, Elsternwick project

Commercial Landscape Construction (up to $500,000):

Landstruct Landscape Construction, Glen Waverly project

Commercial Landscape Construction ($500,000$1,500,000): Landworks Landscaping, Brunswick East project

Commercial Landscape Construction (Over $1,500,000):

PTA Landscapes, Altona project

Landscape Design (over 400m2):

C.O.S. Design, Mount Martha project

Documented Landscape Design:

C.O.S. Design, Mount Martha project

Hard Structures in the Landscape:

(Joint winners) Esjay Landscapes + Pools, Elsternwick project and PTA Landscapes, East Melbourne project

Pool in the Landscape (Pool Design):

C.O.S. Design, Mount Martha project

Pool in the Landscape (Pool Construction):

TLC Pools, Keilor East project

Landscape Management and Maintenance (Residential): Van Leeuwen Green Horticultural Services, Hawthorn

Landscape Management and Maintenance (Commercial): Super Gardens, Sandhurst

Nic van Diemen Award:

AbCam Horticulture, Camberwell

Supplier of the Year Awards:

(Joint winners) Warners Nurseries; C. Fulton’s

Apprentice of the Year – Horticulture, Parks and Gardens: Sarah Mulholland, Green Options

Apprentice of the Year – Construction:

(Joint winners) Victor St Claire, Greener Vision Landscapes; Liam Andrews, Brad Andrews Landscaping

was exceptional, resulting in some very hotly contested categories in this year’s competition.

“As always, the judges were blown away by the creativity and craftmanship shown by entrants in this year’s awards. The Awards are a phenomenal display of landscaping excellence and serve as a good reminder to the general public why they should always

choose a Master Landscaper when planning a landscaping project,” said Ms Flower.

“We now look forward to seeing our Victorian Landscape of the Year award winners go head-to-head against their counterparts in other states, to claim the Husqvarna Champion of Champions Australian Landscape of the Year award for 2022-23.”

The team at PTA Landscapes with numerous awards from the evening.

Commercial Landscape of the Year – Altona Project by PTA Landscapes.

LIAWA awards time

After

a very successful first half of the financial year, LIAWA now turns its attention to its up-and-coming biannual Awards of Excellence in March 2023 at Optus Stadium.

The last time the awards were held, the pandemic tried to play its part in derailing them. However, it was one of the most successful awards nights held by the association in its 44-year history, with many members submitting their work for potential gongs.

Winding forward some two years, the LIAWA board felt the awards, despite their success of 2021, needed a new fresh look, particularly in order to keep the awards in line with present-day environmental issues, the promotion of sustainable landscape practices and the importance of encouraging new emerging landscapers to showcase their work among some of WA’s finest landscapers.

Categories

The key categories featured include: Newcomers to the Industry; Design; Residential; Commercial; and People & Business.

Within these headings come another group of sub-catergories for LIAWA members to submit their projects, and these include: Garden Renovation of the Year; Landscape of the year (design only); Outdoor Living Space of the Year; Learning with Nature; 2033 (Futuristic

Garden); Waterwise Garden of the Year; Display Home of the Year; Recreational Feature; Innovative Green Infrastructure; Cultural Significance; Design & Construct of the Year ( Commercial); Parks & Open Spaces; Student of the Year; Business Ingenuity Award; Supportive Supplier; Landscape Employee of the Year; and Landscape of the Year 2023.

LIAWA Exec Officer Matthew Lunn said, “These biannual awards form a very important part of LIAWA’s work in promoting the professionalism of the industry and those that participate in raising the standards across it.

“We are extremely lucky that here in Western Australia we have some extremely talented residential and commercial businesses working in a time where they are experiencing a continual boom in residential renovations, but also

WA’s population continues to grow, with an incredible, outdoor Mediterranean lifestyle.

urban development, with new suburbs being created that are then supported with government infrastructure.”

Motivating the industry

For many WA has never been seen as the capital for landscape innovation, but it’s quite clear as the WA population continues to grow towards that three- to four-million mark with an incredible, outdoor Mediterranean lifestyle, the WA landscape industry continues to forge ahead with innovation and greenspaces.

Climate change will continue to answer questions of how future landscapes will look in WA’s drying state. The prediction is quite clear: landscapes of the future must be sustainable and be ones that can survive evolution.

The LIAWA Awards of Excellence hopes to ignite the imagination of its members to achieve this long-term goal. LM

Landscapes of the future must be sustainable.

The WA landscape industry continues to forge ahead with innovation and greenspaces.

The LIAWA Awards of Excellence hopes to ignite the imagination of its members.

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