Professional Groundscare January 2019

Starting the year in style at BTME

www.professionalgroundscare.com

IOG recommends 2.5 per cent pay rise for grounds staff

The Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG), the leading membership organisation for everyone involved in the management of sports pitches, landscape and amenity facilities in the UK, is recommending a 2.5 per cent increase in grounds staff’s national minimum salary bands for 2019.

The recommendations have been made against a backdrop of economic uncertainty over the UK’s withdrawal from the EU, which is likely to impact growth; GDP growth is expected to be low in the medium term, with 1.6% the forecasted figure for 2019, and it is not expected to rise above this level until after 2023. The suggested rise

sits between CPIH (Consumer Price Inflation including owneroccupier’s housing costs) inflation of 2.2% and the 2.9% increase in the voluntary living wage. As a result, it should take account of any increase in the cost of living and should ensure that grounds staff pay rates remain competitive.

These bands reflect minimum recommended basic salary payment and are based on a 37.5hour week. Bonuses, overtime and subsistence payments have not been included and are therefore additional. Importantly, the bottom of the scale for groundsperson (£18,250 for 2018) is already above the current UK-wide living wage rate. The

recommended minimum pay rate for a groundsperson in London should be set at £21,000 (Outer) and £22,500 (Inner) to ensure everyone receives at least a living wage.

The IOG also encourages all employers to become accredited living wage employers and to make this explicit in their recruitment and employment offers. In addition, a 5% increase to at least £575 per annum (compared to £550 in last year’s recommendations) should be paid to everyone – not just to junior posts as in the past - for the successful completion of IOG qualifications. This, says the IOG, will encourage an ongoing focus on training and

professional development. Given the current climate of economic and political uncertainty and ongoing fiscal restraint, the IOG says it is of critical importance to job satisfaction levels that employers ensure they are meeting their obligations in ensuring fair payment for overtime worked and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. This should be done in partnership with employees with agreements reached about the balance between overtime pay, time off in lieu and flexible working.

In addition to this survey, IOG chief executive Geoff Webb says the IOG will be commissioning a separate body of research to look at salary scales in elite, global sports stadia. “While the IOG’s suggested salary scales have progressively improved over the last decade, it is recognised that the roles and salaries of those working at sports stadia across the UK require further review and analysis,” he comments. “This will be undertaken within separate, ongoing IOG Industry Research

and the results will be presented at SALTEX 2019.” The research was carried out independently by Myriad Research using a number of data sources for analysis. IOG members can access the full report and view the bands via their online member portal.

IOG

The IOG recommended national basic salary bands for 2019 are:

• Grounds manager£34,782-£55,431

• Head groundsperson£30,517-£41,885

•Deputy head groundsperson/ sole charge£24,967-£31865

• Groundsperson (skilled)£23,348-£29,785

•Groundsperson£18,706-£23,863

•Junior groundsperson£15,905 (Age 17)

•Junior groundsperson£13,208 (Age 16).

Playing fields continue to be protected by Sports England The definitive guide to training and education

Sport England safeguards England’s playing fields –helping to make sport and physical activity accessible for all. New figures show that Sport England has protected or improved sports provision in 93% of planning applications affecting playing fields. It is a statutory consultee for local councils on any planning application that would affect or lead to the loss of a sports playing field.

Unless a developer can prove their proposal will improve or protect sports provision at the site, then Sport England objects to the plan. For the period between April 2016 and March 2017, 1,102 out of 1,187 planning applications affecting playing fields resulted in improved or protected sports

provision.The figures also showed that: in 41% of the cases where we originally objected to an application, further negotiations led to an overall improvement in sports provision; and of the 146 applications where we maintained our objection, 61 were either withdrawn by the applicants or refused planning permission. Head of planning, Nick Evans, said: “Protecting grassroots sport provision is at the heart of what we continue to do so that all of us have access to the right sporting facilities.”

The new IOG Prospectus is the definitive guide to the Institute of Groundsmanship’s Training and Education, detailing the many training courses and qualifications available from the institute.

The 44-page booklet outlines the qualifications, training courses and advisory services available to help support individual career development and future opportunities.

Also included is an ‘ata-glance’ career roadmap showing how all the different options dovetail to create progression pathways.

In addition, there is an explanation of the IOG’s Pitch Grading Framework – guidelines

that match pitch quality standards with the skills required to maintain them, at every level from volunteer grassroots playing surfaces needing introductory certification through to foundation degrees for professionals at elite stadia.

The Prospectus offers something for everyone; a blended learning system that allows access to IOG courses in the workplace, the classroom or online, to enable everyone to enhance their skillset and knowledge.

IOG chief executive Geoff Webb said: “The IOG is committed to encouraging continual skills development and is passionate about supporting those wanting to

learn how to improve playing surfaces at every level of the sporting spectrum.

“Thousands of grounds people train with us each year, as well as the many who undertake IOG qualifications, and the IOG Prospectus now provides an easy-reference guide for everyone involved.”

IOG

Sport England

Rigby Taylor products are just champion for Rotherham

The 2018 IOG Industry Award winner Dave Fellowes certainly has his work cut out at Rotherham United FC.

As head groundsman, not only is he and two assistants charged with looking after the stadium pitch but they also maintain the training ground which has two pitches, including one for the first team and reserves’ training, as well as reserves’ matches.

The trio also help out with the maintenance of an additional pitch used by the club’s under 18s.

“It is crucial that I use quality amenity products to complement our groundscare techniques to ensure the pitch plays well and looks good,” he says. “Of course, we have to meet the

expectations of the players and the board [Dave says he has an excellent relationship with the chairman and chief executive] but it seems that every spectator becomes a grounds expert when they enter the stadium - then they are referees and managers when the game is underway – so we have to ensure the pitch always looks great. And thanks to Rigby Taylor products, it does.”

Working closely with Rigby Taylor’s Technical Representative Mike Brear, the benefits of an annual pitch care programme are clear to see and, says Dave, it is spearheaded by a number of products:

• Microlite Activ8 microgranular fertiliser – applied six times a year - “the best one on the market”;

• Activate R biostimulant –applied once a year“a fantastic product that makes a real difference to rooting”; and

• Magnet chelated liquid iron - “we apply it on a Thursday before a Saturday game and it really kicks in quickly; it

looks like a different pitch within 12 hours”.

Also used are Microflow and PolyPro controlled-release fertilisers (each twice a year) and Magnet Dynamic chelated iron (once a year, for longterm greening).

Rigby Taylor

Dennis Razor shows its quality at Mapperley

Michael is part of a four-man greenkeeping team that works tirelessly to keep the course in immaculate condition all year round.

“We had the Razor on demo and were instantly impressed,” he said. “The members loved it and they could instantly tell which green it had been demonstrated on.

“The other mowers we tried just felt very heavy and more difficult to manoeuvre in comparison to the Razor. It was the best option by far.”

Superbly balanced and ideal for golf greens and other fi ne turf surfaces, the Razor features a 560mm (22in), 11 blade cutting cylinder for a perfect finish.

The Dennis Razor encompasses the simple ‘no tools required’ click height adjusters for quick and easy operation, a feature which particularly struck a chord with Michael and his team.

“I don’t like machines with too many gizmos - I like one that is simple, straight forward to use and does the job which it is supposed to do. We’ve been using the Razors for a year now and they have been fantastic.

“In my opinion the best features on the Razor are that they are reliable, incredibly well built and easy to use. They keep the weight off the greens in winter and the cut that it offers in terms of presentation is fantastic. Since we’ve been using the Razor the greens have been a different quality.

According to deputy head greenkeeper and mechanic Michael Dickson, there has been a notable improvement in the quality of the greens at Mapperley Golf Club in Nottingham since purchasing two Dennis Razor mowers.

An ultra-short wheelbase ensures easy manoeuvrability and excellent performance, even on undulating surfaces.

Dennis

Terra Firma expands machinery portfolio

Terra Firma has signifi cantly increased its groundcare machinery offering by adding four new brands to its portfolio.

Terra Firma, one of Scotland’s largest specialist suppliers to the amenity and local authority markets, has recently announced dealership agreements with Kioti UK Ltd, Muthing flail mowers, Woods finishing mowers and Shibaura slope mowers.

First imported into the UK in 1996, Kioti has had a rapid impact in the groundcare sector with its range of tractors, utility side by side vehicles and WD1260 cut and collect mowers. UK sales of these products continue to grow and the ranges continue to evolve.

Woods high-performance finish mowers ensure a clean, crisp, manicured appearance year after year and the unique rounded front, tapered-side rear discharge deck allows operators to mow with better manoeuvrability –reducing trim time and increasing productivity. Heattreated, alloy steel blades provide maximum performance and precision cutting for all turf care applications. The combination of a deep deck, baffling and unique rear discharge design ensures premium results.

The Muthing Mulching range is manufactured in Germany to the highest of standards and is renowned for producing high performance fl ails for the agricultural and groundcare markets. Notorious for their high quality of cut and mulching capability, there are a wide range of flail mowers available whatever the requirement.

Shibaura manufacture professional multi-purpose slope mowers for precise daily maintenance of slope areas. The machines are notoriously high powered, feature a low centre of gravity and allow operators to work comfortably and safely over steep inclines.

Compacts combat the cold

After successfully dealing with last winter’s heavy snow across the Tayside area of Scotland, Tayside Contracts has added seven new John Deere 2026R compact tractors to its existing fleet, supplied by local dealer Double A based at Cupar in Fife.

The ‘footpath gritter’ tractors, as they are known, are chiefly used for winter maintenance of public footpaths. For this task they are equipped with industrial tyres, a 54in front blade and Kuhn 360litre rear-mounted spreaders.

These feature one of three hopper types suitable for spreading salt

or brine or spraying fine salt, to combat frost and ice. They are also specified with fully heated John Deere cabs, which incorporate a demister – vital for efficient and weatherproof operation on cold winter mornings. Tayside Contracts is a commercially based local authority contracting organisation providing catering, cleaning, roads and winter maintenance plus vehicle maintenance to the councils of Angus, Dundee City and Perth & Kinross. It reports to a joint committee representing the three councils and has an annual turnover of around £70m.

John Deere

SISIS Quadraplay performs at Dudley Kingswinsford RFC

A volunteer groundsman at Dudley Kingswinford Rugby Club in the West Midlands has praised the SISIS Quadraplay single pass maintenance system after the club purchased it based on a recommendation from Keith Kent, head groundsman for the RFU.

The teams play their games across four full size pitches and four junior sized pitches which are maintained throughout the year by a group of volunteers.

Grounds chairman John Griffiths oversees the team of volunteers and explained how the club came to purchase the SISIS Quadraplay.

The SISIS Quadraplay multiplepurpose, single-pass maintenance

incorporates a mounted frame for up to four implements such as grooming rakes, spikers, slitters, rollers and brushes.

The implements can be fitted to the mainframe in any order and can be independently adjusted to achieve the desired effect. Compact, robust, versatile and with the ability to carry out up to four operations simultaneously – the Quadraplay makes life a lot easier for many groundsmen. At Dudley Kingswinford, John uses the spiker slitter, the straight brush, the spring tine grooming rake and the roller, and believes that each plays a major role in his maintenance procedures.

SISIS

Terra Firma

New buggy and UTV venture from TH WHITE

This month T H WHITE Group are delighted to launch a new sub-division of the Groundcare business focusing on Golf and Utility vehicles, named T H WHITE Golf and Utility.

The new sub-division will specialise in the ranges of golf, utility, personnel and hospitality vehicles from E-Z-GO, Cushman and Kawasaki.

Sales Specialist, Simon Bingham, who will be heading up the Golf and Utility brand, brings a wealth of experience with over 10 years’ experience in the industry and great relationships with golf courses and businesses across the country.

Simon commented: “I am excited to be part of this new venture enabling me to focus on specialist vehicles within

the golf, hospitality, hotels and resorts, parks, estates, events and commercial sectors, among many others.

“Coupled with our whollyowned, dedicated and experienced service engineers, an extensive hire fleet, competitive finance packages and parts and accessories stocked at our 4 groundcare depots, we are confident in our offer as a national provider of quality vehicles at great value and with outstanding support.”

T H WHITE Golf and Utility is proud to showcase the full vehicle line-up on their new website, www.thwhitegolfandutility.co.uk.

Long-standing customer Alec Fernihough, Director of Gaudet Luce Golf Club in

Worcestershire, is delighted to offer his full support to the new operation: “We have worked with Simon Bingham and T H WHITE for many years. The level of service that Simon and his colleagues have supplied has always been excellent and this is the one reason why, despite many great deals from other suppliers, we are still working so closely with T H WHITE.”

While continuing to build on its standing in the golf sector with new and existing customers, T H WHITE Golf and Utility is looking forward to working more closely with businesses in other markets, including hotels, resorts, estates and parks, education providers, event venues and much more.

T H White

Woods Charlerois plant reaches full production

Woods Equipment have confirmed their custom built spares and assembly plant in Charlerois, Belgium, is now offering the company’s full product range, with most products available either ex stock or within three weeks.

Simon Richard the UK Agent for the Woods rotary cutter range said huge progress has been made since assembly began in January 2018 and this announcement confirms the Woods commitment to offering optimum service to UK and European Agriculture and Groundcare markets.

“Since taking on the Woods range in early 2017 we have been amazed by the number of extremely old but still fully functioning machines we have become aware of,” he added. “Machines like Batwings at 18 years old and single Rotor

machines at 20 years. We have even come across a triple Finishing Mower at 30 years of age.”

The company is now asking owners to send us a picture of their machine at work, the serial number and their name and address.

The owner of the oldest working machine will win a Woods 20-ton log splitter. Email simon@simonrichard.co.uk for an application form which should be returned no later than the end of February 2019.

The top dresser in the North East

Beaumont Grounds Maintenance took delivery of a GKB top dresser at the start of the season to help fulfil the needs of their many contracted sites.

Covering an area across the North East, Cumbria, Yorkshire and Humber, the family-run commercial and sports grounds maintenance business looks after a diversity of clients from schools, academies, sports clubs, councils and factories through to hotels and property

management companies.One such venue is Gateshead International Stadium and it was to there the GKB SP230 Sandspreader was delivered.The Sandspreader can be used to distribute a variety of materials and the version ordered, the SP230 with a bunker capacity 2.3 m³ / 81 ft³ flat filled, is one of four different designs ranging from 1 m3 to 4 m3. There are several options.

With the standard design, you can set the speed of the conveyer

belt and the disc spreaders by means of a control unit attached to the Sandspreader.

The shape and design of the sand bunker ensures an efficient operation and ensures a clear view along the machine. The sand is transported by means of a conveyer belt to a metering valve, which, optionally, is also available in a hydraulically adjustable version. The double, hydraulically powered, spreading discs are adjustable on multiple points and in this way the Sandspreader enables you to create perfect sand distribution. A touchscreen operated from the tractor cab gives complete control. The towed version can be delivered with four pivoting balloon tyres and there is a model suitable for assembling on a turf truck.

Machines

GKB

Simon Richard

Campey appoints two new dealers in South America

Campey Turf Care Systems has expanded its international dealership network into South America with the appointment of twonewdealers.TheMacclesfi eld based company already has an impressive network of dealers across the globe and the addition of C4 Turf Care and World Sports further strengthens their presence in that area of the world while giving customers in the region directaccesstoarangeofCampey products. Campey Product Specialist, Ben Taylor will be the pointofcontactforSouthAmerica working with both companies –who will be distributing Koro, Imants and Raycam products – to ensure South American customers receive the outstanding service Campey customers have come to expect all overthe world.

Campey Turf Care Systems

ICL helps take Shrewsbury School from Summer to Winter

With an incredibly short renovation window to transform his Summer sports pitches into Winter sports pitches, Andy Richards, Grounds Manager at Shrewsbury School, can’t afford to take any risks with the products he uses.

It is for this reason that he relies upon ICL products– all of which he says will guarantee him the results expected at the prestigious school.

“Last year was hard,” he says. “Fortunately, I have 100% confidence in the ICL products I use and even though the weather went against us we still did it. I trust in ICL and in my opinion the products just seem to be

getting better and better all of the time. They are creating new technologies which turf and sports pitches need. There are no gimmicks – it is all fact and they have trials and research to prove it.

“I also receive great support from Emma Kilby (ICL Technical Area Sales Manager) who helps me put together the programme. We speak a lot on the phone and she is always there if I need her. It’s nice to be able to bounce ideas off one another and we are always looking at any improvements we could make.”

Quality is the key for W E Dawson

Ed Dawson of Winsford, Cheshire based contractors W E Dawson, says his Muthing MU-Pro 280 flail topper has more than proved it’s worth for his business.

The company uses Muthing across a range of services it provides, including agricultural and groundscare contracting work and have been extremely

impressed by the build and cut quality. Simon Richard, UK Sales Agent for the Muthing range said: “The MU Pro 280’s self-cleaning roller with internal bearings and wellrounded edges, protects soil and turf and the optimised distance between the outer rotor circle and the roller guarantees perfect contour following and

an even quality of cut. “The specially designed hood, in conjunction with high rotor and cutting speeds and a fi xed shredding bar, spreads shredded material evenly behind the roller, giving an excellent mulching and shredding quality.”

Simon Richard

Over two decades on and still exhibiting at BTME

Join the disease management journey at BTME

As greenkeepers are feeling the pressure of curative fungicides disappearing from the market, Bayer will be showcasing how a preventative and integrated approach can help overcome disease threats at BTME this year.

The Turf Solutions Team will be on stand 260, in the red hall to guide visitors through an interactive turf ‘canopy’ tour.

Steve Bishop from Bayer

explains that the company is working in partnership with BIGGA to further educate the industry with a novel and innovative approach.

The tour will cover five key areas of an integrated approach to preventative Microdochium patch control and those that complete the tour will be rewarded with a BIGGA CPD point. “Ninety per cent

of golf courses suffer with Microdochium patch annually, so we hope this learning opportunity can help many members of the industry,” says Steve.

“Preventative treatment will soon be the only option to control disease, as more curative fungicides are being taken off the market. However, preventative measures only work if they are put in place early enough. Without curative treatments there is no control once the disease is established and the chemical options are severely limited.”

Visitors to the Bayer stand will be able to immerse themselves in the turf canopy and the Bayer Turf Solutions team will be on hand to answer questions.

The journey finishes with a preview of Bayer’s new product which delivers improved disease control, plant health performance and application flexibility for greenkeepers

Bayer

It started back in 1995 when Highspeed showcased their new products at BTME in Harrogate.

The company planned entering the turf maintenance sector, so BTME seemed the logical solution. Results from that firs attendance 24 years ago exceeded expectations, generating excellent business.

Every year the company exhibited at BTME and on each occasion new customers were found. Over the years at BTME, many products and services, legislative driven, were introduced. Initially, waste management services were established with hundreds of golf clubs and others in turf management.

Fuel and oil tanks were in great demand when new legislation was introduced and a range of tanks were exhibited.

Workwear and PPE followed but the biggest launch was that of the ClearWater washpad water recycling system in January 2003.

Highspeed’s directors decided a few years ago to consider retirement and sell the business. They felt it necessary to find the right company, preferably operating in the waste management sector, to develop the work and build on achievements. ClearWater was seen to have great potential.

In Spring 2017, Acumen Waste Services Ltd acquired the company declaring a

commitment to the development of well-established ClearWater.

To exemplify this, a separate ClearWater Division, led by General Manager Matthew Mears, was set up.

Strong promotion by Acumen of ClearWater is underway ensuring ClearWater’s growth and success. Showcasing ClearWater is important at BTME and the Prize Draw (a free ClearWater system) will run again along with attractive finance options

There’s an expanded presence of waste management services too; Acumen’s speciality.

Visit Acumen ClearWater at BTME 2019, Stand 206 Red Zone.

Acumen

New additions to Headland Amenity’s range promised

Retuning to BTME 2019 with their range of plant nutrition products for golf and sports turf will be Headland Amenity.

Particular highlights on stand 262 in the Red Zone will be Mantle, the newest addition to the company’s range of nonpesticidal disease management products, along with a new triple-active selective herbicide.

Mantle’s water-soluble formulation consists of Manganese and Zinc, with the addition of ‘Harpin’ proteinthe plant elicitor pioneered by Headland in the UK turf industry, to stimulate the grass plant’s own natural defence mechanisms.

As well as an important component of two enzymes, Manganese is also an activating co-factor for a large number of enzymes required for key functions in the grass plant.

One of which aids lignin synthesis taking place in the root, with research showing that

applications of Manganese can reduce the ability of some root pathogens, such as Take All Patch, to cause damage.

As essential secondary and micronutrients respectively, magnesium and zinc are also involved in some fundamental processes essential for a healthy plant, such as photosynthesis and protein synthesis.

Mantle can be used alongside Headland’s ‘20-20-30’ tank mix to enhance plant health and help minimise the effect of disease.

Combining Seamac ProTurf Fe and Liquid Turf Hardener plant protectants, together with Turfite elictor, the industryleading ‘20-20-30’ formulation has shown to be effective in minimising Microdochium nivale over the autumn/winter period, when applied prior to the onset of disease.

Headland will also showcase their new triple-

active Columbus selective herbicide formulation based on Clopyralid, Fluroxypyr and MCPA.

The unique micro-emulsion formulation controls a wide range of weeds in managed amenity turf.

Bayer

Return to Harrogate for BLEC

BLEC, and their specialised range of landscaping and turfcare equipment, will be returning to BTME in 2019 on stand 418 in the new purple zone.

Staff will be on hand to discuss the full BLEC portfolio, which includes both pedestrian and tractor mounted units, with a number of machines showcased on the stand. A particular highlight will be the Laser Grader 1500TPP.

The compact range of BLEC Laser Graders will suit turf professionals who require a strong, accurate grader designed to cope with demanding conditions.

Particularly suited to work on the golf course, it is used to accurately grade the surface to a tolerance of plus or minus 2mm.

All models are manufactured to a high standard using quality materials to ensure long life, with proportional electric/ hydraulic valves fitted to deliver smoothness and accuracy.

The 1500TPP model features a 1.5m working width and has 6 ripping tines for the loosening of heavily compacted ground. The frame features 4 wheels with each pair controlled by their own hydraulic cylinder, giving the operator the ability to use the machine for dual grading or alternatively, all 4

Johnson Sports Seed range continues to grow in 2019

The Johnsons Sports Seed range has always been focused on quality, providing professional turf managers with the tools to deliver high performance turf that can handle the toughest challenges. 2019 will be no exception.

Visitors to stand 214 in the new Red Zone at BTME will be the first to hear about the new and improved mixture formulations and cultivars across their golf and sports turf seed portfolio’s. A complete review of the range will see 11 updated mixture formulations and a new high performance Chewings Fescue,

The new J Fescue blend features 50% slender creeping red fescue and 50% chewings fescue cultivars for improved drought tolerance and disease resistance. Along with a number of other mixtures in the range, from 2019 J Fescue can be specified with DLF’s ProNitro seed coating. Reformulated specifically for use on links courses, the new J Links mixture is a pure slender creeping

red fescue blend, comprised of three of the markets highest performing cultivars – Cezanne, Nigella and Beudin.

This year, in addition to regular testing, DLF cultivars have been subject to hydroponic salt tolerance trials to confirm their effectiveness in high salt scenarios. This, combined with improved drought tolerance and strong rhizomatous rooting structure, means J Links should deliver strong performance under sustainable management programmes and/or close mown conditions. 2019 will also see the launch of ‘DLF Select’, a new

seedpurityprogramme.Inaworld where it is becoming increasingly difficult to achieve high purity standards, DLF have introduced a number of processes throughout their supply chain to bring greater reliability toturf managers.

The new 00 quality rating, representing zero weeds and zero coarse grass, will be available on a number of mixtures in the fine turf range, along with Johnsons J Premier Wicket and J Premier Pitch.

DLF Johnson Sports

SHOW NO

wheels can be locked for single grading. A self-contained system, complete with its own Briggs & Stratton engine, it can be towed by prime movers already used on site, such as a bunker rake.

All models within the Laser Grader range are set up to accept any make of laser equipment, though a laser control box and receiver can be specified and supplied as an optional extra. Larger models of Laser Grader are also available, offering up to a 2.4m working width, with the professional sports turf contractor in mind.

MERCY.

The Ransomes HM600.

The HM600 has been built in collaboration with Müthing to deliver a robust, reliable mower with the ability to tackle the toughest jobs, and the finesse to manoeuvre tight spaces while providing a quality after-cut appearance. From a clean, fine, rolled finish across sports pitches to routine cuts, the HM600 leaves an even spread of mulched clippings. It also tackles the irregular cuts, bringing the lesser maintained areas back under control.

Visit www.ransomesHM600.com to watch the machine working and book a demo with your local dealer.

BLEC

Bogart. Bogart features in the new 6-blend formulation of Johnsons J Fescue, popular for the overseeding of fairways, greens and tees.

Discover PrecisionPro - the award-winning sports turf app

Visitors to the Sherriff Amenity stand (110), located in the Blue Zone at BTME 2019, will be able to find out more about the award winning PrecisionPro app, which recently scooped the SALTEX 2018 Innovation of the Year Award.

PrecisionPro, is a dedicated app for sports turf to measure any area, guide the operator in calibrating a spreader for any granular product and also help apply fertilisers accurately. It was created due to the common issue of turf managers misjudging green/sport surface size which often results in problems such as over applying or under applying fertilisers - both of which can have a negative effect on turf performance, disease and budget.

PrecisionPro allows turf managers to have an accurate measured area by simply opening the app and walking the perimeter of the area.

Martin Lishman sprayers receive top praise

Whether a 120l self-propelled pedestrian Micro sprayer would suit for smaller areas that benefit from low compaction, or a 600l Tractor Mounted sprayer is required for large spaces, Martin Lishman Ltd have a sprayer to suit every need.

As Martin Lishman sprayers are designed and built on-site, specialist or bespoke requests can often be catered for.

“In the design stages,” comments the company’s Managing Director, Dr Gavin Lishman, “we ask sprayer operators to test all aspects of the sprayer’s practicality in use.

“Hence, all filters are easily accessible and valves are at a convenient operating height. The standardised electronic controls

on the larger models are a feature designed to ensure that hoses containing chemical are kept clear of the operator during use.”

See some of the range for yourself at BTME,on stand 134

and take the opportunity to ask the Martin Lishman team any questions you may have.

Martin Lishman

Calibrating spreaders has always been a difficult task but with the Calibrate feature in the PrecisionPro app, users are guided through each step of the process. Furthermore, its advanced GPS functionality informs the user when to start and stop the calibration process.

The app also features a function to ensure that every operator walks at the same speed – if someone is walking too fast or too slow then they are alerted by colour coded screens. As well as calculating the g/m2 and the operator’s walking speed, the Apply feature ultimately ensures that the exact amount of nutrition is being applied to the turf.

Sherriff Amenity’s all new Plant Bio-Stimulant Guide, which will be available to pick up on the stand, seeks to explain the term ‘Plant Bio-stimulant’ and explores the activity of an

extensive range of plant biostimulants, along with their specific claims and intended area of influence. The guide also includes a table of biostimulants, indicating their main benefi ts and specialisation.

There are also further considerations on choosing the correct bio-stimulant product, relative to its area of use and to ensure, the purchase of a quality product, given current UK bio-stimulant regulations.

Turf professionals visiting BTME will also be in with a chance of winning some warm merchandise clothing. Simply visit the stand to register your interest and by the end of the day you could be walking away with an Evolution fertiliser branded hoodie or a PrecisionPro branded snood.

Grundfos CR pumps up the pressure

Grundfos Pumps will introduce a new range of high- fl ow CR multistage centrifugal pumps that are replacing the existing CR/N 90, 120 and150.

The new models have been designed to support our customers under the three important cornerstones that the Grundfos brand is so closely associated with: Reliability;

K51

efficiency; and providing a pump solution that is capable of operating as a standalone or in an integrated system. The company believes the changes are moving the boundaries for multi-stage pumpperformanceanddurability and the CR story is one that is continuing to evolve.

Grundfos Pumps

Sheriff Amenity

GKB on par at BTME

GKB Machines have taken a larger stand in one of the new halls at this year’s BTME to display more of their machinery range.

The new Topair 120 being introduced at the show is based on the popular Topair 160 model, offering a smaller machine for use on the golf course with compact tractors.

A robust and reliable combined aerator/roller its GKB developed Evolvente blades minimise upper layer disturbance to leave a smooth, levelled finish when used in conjunction with the water-filled roller.

The two operations can also be done separately. The machine features optional cutting discs to leave a continuous slit to aid surface water drainage and the slicing of grubs.

In areas on the golf course where surface water and moss formation are a problem, the GKB Sandfiller goes to work offering a fast solution for drainage and intensive aeration. Top layer treatment

is environmentally friendly and cost-effective with its allin-one combination of aeration and sand filling. Intensive aeration of the grass leads to quicker recovery, greater green longevity and faster drainage of surface water, without the need for complete renovation.

Meeting top dressing requirements for golf courses and all types of sports pitch the GKB SP100 Spreader has been developed on the back of the success of GKB’s trailed versions and to meet customer needs with easy mounting onto turf trucks, such as the John Deere Gator and Toro Workman.

The GKB Combiseeder offers a fast, efficient way of seeding and surface aerating with virtually no surface disturbance. Creating over 1500 holes per m² the Combiseeder provides accurate seed application at various rates to suit different seed mixes, with drag brushes to incorporate seed and topdressing.

The latest GKB Vstrong improves on already proven

technology to offer the professional a robust and reliable scarifying machine that swiftly deals with the problem with the minimum waste fl ow. Operating speeds up to 7.4mph/12km/h mean you can quickly cover a lot of ground for maximum productivity.

At the heart of the Vstrong is the CombiRotor with generically developed 3mm carbide scarifying blades. The blades, in turn, are attached to the rotor by means of the QuickLock system which allows you to attain a depth of 5cm. In combination with the reversed rotation direction you’re guaranteed you don’t miss an inch.

There is also the option of 2mm or 4mm blades and you can alter the centre-to-centre distance of the scarifyingblades.Foraddedbenefi t a collection system can be used to catchthedispatchedmaterial.

GKB Machines at BTME Hall: Purple; Stand: 406.

GKB Machines

Rigby Taylor tees off a year of centenary celebrations

Rigby Taylor will be making a major golf industry announcement at BTME to herald the start of a year of celebrations for the company’s 100-year anniversary.

While details of the exciting initiative in conjunction with BTME organiser BIGGA will be released at the show, there is a host of additional reasons why greenkeepers should make

a bee-line for Rigby Taylor’s expansive stand (stand 424, Purple Zone), including the launch of a specially formulated range of early season fertilisers, the 2019 grass seed mixtures and the company’s ‘Active Planning’ turf disease prevention programmes.

Rigby Taylor will also be launching a website for its Euroflor urban meadow flower products

(www.euroflor.co.uk), and further announcements will be made on the company’s involvement in the irrigation market.

In addition, a golf simulator ‘nearest the pin’ competition will be staged on every day of the show, in support of the trade charity Perennial.

Rigby Taylor

Graden Z2R takes pride of place

An array of machines, in both green and red can be found in the purple zone at BTME, as Charterhouse Turf Machinery showcase their natural turf management portfolio on stand 432.

Particular highlights will include a selection of machines from the Graden range, including the Z2R turf roller, which will be found beside a variety of units from both Redexim and Rink.

The Graden Z2R (Zero to Roll) turf iron is a self-contained unit that requires no trailer and no unhooking - eliminating any health & safety issues caused by the hitching, lifting and positioning of a traditional roller. It is fitted with 4 wheels which can be raised and lowered as required, delivering an 8.5mph rolling speed on the greens and quick, convenient transportation around the course. The Graden FLEX system also

provides a constant positive pressure across all rollers, conforming to any contours on the greens, whilst keeping a low overall PSI.

The fl agship Graden machine, the Contour Sand Injection (CSI) unit, will also be on show. It has the ability to scarify to any depth between 1mm-40mm whilst simultaneously ba ckfi lling the grooves with either sand or a combination of sand and seed.

Powered by a 20hp V-Twin Honda engine, the CSI has a hydrostatic transmission and a 100kg sand hopper. Its multifunctionality saves the operator time and reduces play downtime, without causing any detrimental effect to ground firmness.

Complementing the Graden machinery, products from Redexim will also be on show. Visitors will be able to see a

selection of machines including the iconic Verti-Drain® and the Pedestrain Carrier, as well as the DS800 topdresser from Rink. Available in both trailed and mounted formats, the DS800 has a 0.8m3 hopper and offers a spreading width of up to 12m and a thickness of up to 15mm.

Charterhouse

Dennis and SISIS head to BTME

Dennis and SISIS will be heading to Harrogate and BTME 2019 on their new stand -located in the red zone on Stand 247.

By visiting the Dennis and SISIS stand, greenkeepers, course managers and turf

managers responsible for a wide range of various sports surfaces will get the opportunity to find out how the SISIS Rotorake TM1000, the Dennis FT510 and the exciting new Dennis PRO 34R could have a significant impact on the way they manage their turf.

The SISIS Rotorake TM1000 is a tractor mounted heavy duty scarifier and linear aerator and is un-rivalled when it comes to removing and controlling thatch. It includes a collector box and fl oating unit to follow ground contours. Its contra-rotating reel throws debris forward ensuring

Wiedenmann brings wish list kit to BTME

Wiedenmann UK’s popular rough management duo, the Super 500 and the Terra Rake, give Wiedenmann Terra Spikes a run for their money when it comes to greenkeepers’ wish list kit.

Fortunately all three machines will be well represented on

stand Red 218 at BTME 2019.

“For rough management, it’s the combination of time saved plus their unrivalled versatility that makes them so popular,” say Wiedenmann UK.

“If you have ‘traditional ridge and furrow’ undulations the Super 500 follows contours easily

without scalping and produces a consistent height of cut, whether scarifying or fl ail mowing. It also is a very thorough leaf collector. The Terra Rake will work in tandem. It scarifies, pulls out thatch and can help us with a long list of other tasks.”

With 11 separate Terra Spikes it’s the class leading Terra Spike GXi8HDthatwillgetthenodfor Harrogate. Superfast, effi cient and precise the 1.8 m wide GXi8 HD can potentially access all areas at depths to 250 mm.

Look out, too, for the Terra Float Air pneumatic seeder and the 230* swivelling Mega Twister blower.It’sagreatopportunityto see these up close and appreciate the simplicity and excellence of their German engineering.

Wiedenmann UK

a clean, consistent groove resulting in an excellent finish when the time comes to scarify.

With interchangeable blades and a quick, simple depth setting without tools, it’s no wonder that so many turf managers have reaped the benefi ts from using the TM1000.

When it comes to all areas of fine turf, the Dennis FT510 professional mower, has for many years, been celebrated for its top performance and durability. With a 51cm working width, the FT510 provides its user with comfort, flexibility and excellent presentation.

A true sense of control is obtained through the unique roller clutch drive for a smooth take-up and a variable clip rate helping to create the desired finish.

Available with five-bladed and ten-bladed cutting cylinders the machine can be matched to any situation

and the interchangeable cassettes can be changed without the requirement of any tools. The range of 11 different cassettes mean that one machine can be used for several key maintenance tasks including scarifying, verticutting or brushing. This feature combined with the click height of cut adjustment system makes it extremely user friendly for its operators.

The PRO 34R was the machine that everyone was waiting in anticipation for – and now it is here. Officially launched just last month (November), this 34″ (860mm) rotary mower has been designed to help turf managers achieve an aesthetically pleasing appearance and desired playing surface.

The mower is ideal for sports pitches and lawns producing the enviable ‘Dennis Stripes’ while a powerful vacuum flow collects debris quickly and efficiently. The angle of the cutting deck and twin blades can be easily adjusted

using a single ‘click adjuster’ ensuring the mower is suitable for changing conditions and meeting operator requirements.

Unique features of the Dennis PRO 34R Rotary Mower include 5 forward / 1 reverse selection for speed of operation, 90 litre capacity grass box, fully adjustable angle of deck for changing conditions, 2 section cast aluminium rear roller, single point height of cut adjustment for ease of operation, optional front wheel or smooth/weile roller options and front brush for standing grasses upright.

Dennis & SISIS have been regular exhibitors at BTME for a number of years and as always, the company’s experienced staff will be available to answer any queries and offer valuable advice about the machinery on show.

Dennis & SISIS

Landmark for Pitchmark in Harrogate

Customers of Pitchmark and visitors to BTME are in for a major surprise in January 2019, says the company, who will be making a landmark announcement at the show.

A family-run business founded in 2010, Pitchmark has built an unrivalled reputation with a vision of raising the standard of line marking and improving the quality of working life for groundstaff.

The company has created an industry platform with the manufacture and supply of a complete range of high-quality marking paints, machines and accessories, for any sport and any surface. Pitchmarky launched the innovative new Hybrid line marker at SALTEX 2017, whilst 2018 saw rapid expansion and three new directors appointed. The business was crowned regional winners of

Business Exporter of the Year at the FSB Awards.

P itchmark’s Chairman, Mark Rodman said: “Our experience has given us the understanding into what groundsmen want, enabling us to be both proactive and reactive in delivering the best products and our knowledge. We’re expanding

on that platform with exciting new developments we will launch at the Harrogate venue.” The theme, Mark reveals, is: ‘Your Turf. Our Passion’. “All will be revealed on the opening morning of the show,” he adds, “so come along to stand 137 in the blue zone at BTME.”

Improve your course with Limagrain UK

Visitors to the Limagrain UK stand (140), located in the Blue Zone at BTME 2019, can expect a range of market leading products that can signifi cantly improve both the quality and aesthetics of a golf course.

The demand and pressure placed on the modern day greenkeeper to produce a consistent playing surface continually grows at a pace. Seed quality, purity and vigour are the essential ingredients of a fi rst-class golf course and

Limagrain’s MM range of seed mixture provides exactly these.

Visitors to the stand can also find out how Limagrain’s Wild Flower and Colour Splash mixtures have been benefitting countless golf courses throughout the UK and beyond.

The mixtures are ideal for those wanting to bring a splash of colour to their golf course as well as attracting some fantastic wildlife.

Limagrain

Pitchmark

Trilo showcases turf and waste management machinery

Trilo will be returning to BTME, with their range of turf and waste management machinery.

The team will be on hand on stand 204 in the Red Zone, to discuss the complete portfolio from blowers to scarifiers,and original parts which are available to order through the UK dealer network. Visitors will also be able to see firsthand the multi-functional Trilo S3.

The Trilo S3 is well suited to a variety of applications on the golf course. Its large suction capacity paired with its modest dimensions enables efficient collection of leaves, clippings or debris in small areas or during challenging ground conditions. Available with a range of shaft options including a twisted flailor dedicated verti-cut shaft, ideal for scarificationon fairways,

it becomes a versatile unit for yearround operation. The simplicity of the interchangeable system means the operator can easily switch shafts in as little as one hour.

At Highgate Golf Club in North London, Course Manager Derek Mason had a demonstration of the Trilo S3 and was so impressed, he placed the order there and then!

“Jeremy Vincent of Trilo and Rob Attewell from our local dealer Ernest Doe brought the S3 in when we were looking for a new machine to combat the excessive leaf-fall we get on our compact, parkland course” explains Derek.

“They put the S3’s wanderhose to work on one of our large ditches, about 50m long, which it cleared in an unbelievable 20 minutes!

It was evident straight away the huge difference it was going to

make to our winter maintenance programme.”

“Since we’ve had the S3 it’s been out 5 days a week which hasn’t gone unnoticed by the members - we have been inundated with comments on how much of a difference it’s making to both the presentation and playability of the course. Not only that, but the ease and speed with which we can now tackle the leaves, frees my team up to get other tasks completed. With the purchase of the scarification and brush shaft attachments, which will see the machine in use more yearround, it’s without doubt some of the best money we’ve spent in the last couple of years.”

Foley United bring fully automated grinding workshop solution

Foley United, represented by UK distributor ProSport UK Ltd, will be demonstrating the ideal grinding combination for a fully automated workshop in Red Hall, Stand 248B, with the AccuPro 633 with AccuTouch 3 Control and 673 bedknife grinders. This professional grinding duo provides top quality cylinder and bedknife grinding, featuring built-in grinding programmes for a quick and accurate OEM grind. The fully automatic grinding process on both machines allows

users to do other tasks while the Foley grinders are activated, saving time, money and man-hours. The latest company to utilise this combination is GGM Groundscare. The two grinders used by GGM

Price Turfcare returns to Harrogate

Price Turfcare is returning to BTME for the third time, back to Harrogate where the company was officially launched back in 2017.

As well as golf customers, Ventrac machines are going into major sports facilities, to large landscape contractors, rental companies and to some private buyers with large estates.

The addition of the Ryan franchise in 2018 has also given us a boost and the result is that we have an eclectic mix of turf maintenance machinery to suit any organisation, small or large.

Visit stand 450 in the Purple Area and see the solutions available.

Join the disease management journey at BTME

As greenkeepers are feeling the pressure of curative fungicides disappearing from the market, Bayer will be showcasing how a preventative and integrated approach can help overcome disease threats at BTME this year.

The Turf Solutions Team will be on stand 260, in the red hall to guide visitors through an interactive turf ‘canopy’ tour.

Steve Bishop from Bayer explains that the company is working in partnership with BIGGA to further educate the industry with a novel and innovative approach.

The tour will cover fivekey areas of an integrated approach to preventative Microdochium patch control and those that complete the tour will be rewarded with a BIGGA CPD point. “Ninety per cent of golf courses suffer with Microdochium patch annually,

so we hope this learning opportunity can help many members of the industry,” says Steve. “Preventative treatment will soon be the only option to control disease, as more curative fungicides are being taken off the market. However, preventative measures only work if they are put in place early enough. Without curative treatments there is no control once the disease is established and the chemical options are severely limited.”

Visitors to the Bayer stand will be able to immerse themselves in the turf canopy and the Bayer Turf Solutions team will be on hand to answer questions. The journey finisheswith a preview of Bayer’s new product which delivers improved disease control, plant health performance and application flexibility for greenkeepers

Bayer

are only two of the Foley range of Relief, Spin and Bedknife machines that have been specifially designed to meet any budget.

John Deere expands PrecisionCut fairway mower range

Featuring the same advanced technology as John Deere’s award-winning A Model family of fairway, rough and trim & surrounds mowers, the new 6000A Series PrecisionCut fairway machines will be launched at BTME 2019 in Harrogate next January and will be available from UK and Irish dealers in the spring.

Based on a three-wheel drive, smooth tyre configuration, the 6080A, 6500A and 6700A five-gang cylinder models have been introduced to meet a specific customer need for improved budget control, while still delivering a mower designed for the rigours of fairway applications.

All three models utilise a powerful 24.7hp (18.4kW) diesel engine, and boast several other premium performance and comfort features. Just like the existing John Deere A Model range, these latest mowers offer exceptional cut quality, even on slopes, thanks to the standard LoadMatch system, while the innovative eHydro transmission eliminates linkages between the foot pedals and the hydrostatic pump.

Cutting widths are 2.03m (80in) on the 6080A and 2.54m (100in) on the 6500A and 6700A, with a choice of 46 or 56cm (18 or 22in) QA5 5in or QA7 7in diameter cutting units depending on the model.

In addition, the 8mph (12.9kph) mowing speed allows operators to cut larger areas in less time. As with all A Model machines, the new fairway mowers also feature the innovative TechControl display with password-protected controls. TechControl allows course managers or technicians to enter a range of commands, including mowing, turning and transport speeds as well as service intervals, while also providing on-board service diagnostics, to give complete and consistent control over cutting performance and quality.

The established frame design provides strength and durability, and a high quality cut is maintained in undulating terrain thanks to a rear-attaching yoke on the cutting units. Combined with the standard GRIP allwheel drive traction system, these features allow the mowers

to climb hills more easily without slipping.

The new John Deere 6000A Series PrecisionCut fairway mowers also provide several features designed to increase machine and operator uptime. These include internal hydraulic wet disk brakes that eliminate the need for linkage adjustments and grease points in the braking system, along with the traction drive system that needs only one fluidtype for regular maintenance.

In addition, the comfortable operator station includes CommandArm mounted controls that move with the seat.

Trilo

Price Turfcare

Foley United

John Deere

Special attachment helps Ventrac provide perfect solution

With over 30 attachments, the Ventrac compact tractor provides year-round solutions for any golf course.

The AERA-vator is designed to vibrate and loosen the soil beneath the grass without destroying the turf. It creates a hole without bringing a core to the surface, leaving the turf ready for use immediately following aeration.

With a working width of 1.52 metres and a depth of 70 mm, the vibrating heads create six

holes every 300 mm (66 holes per square metre) with the hole size regulated by the drive speed. The slower the forward speed of the Ventrac tractor unit, the larger the hole.

The tines can be replaced individually or by quickly changing the entire mounting heads, giving you the versatility required for efficient operation. The AERA-vator is built with the Ventrac Mount System, allowing for easy attachment changes, and comes with a standard jack stand for

easy mounting. An optional overseeding kit is available. The All-wheel-drive compact Ventrac 4500 is rated for slopes of up to 30 degrees and is capable of handling various turf conditions allowing you to aerate areas previously inaccessible with other aeration tools.

Ventrac is distributed in the UK and Ireland by Price Turfare, based near Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk.

Price Turfcare

Redexim combination doubles club’s aeration regime

Set in an area of outstanding natural beauty in Berkshire, Goring and Streatley Golf Club offers a testing 18 holes over a half downland and half parkland course.

Despite the challenges this brings to Course Manager Matt Aplin and his team when it comes to maintenance, the greens are renowned for being fast, true and in great condition all year round.

The combination of a Redexim Carrier and Verti-Drain 1513 from Charterhouse Turf Machinery is the latest weapon in Matt’s armoury to improve the greens, tees and approaches even further. “Matt spoke to his local dealer Lister Wilder, who demonstrated a

Terrain gets to the core

Terrain

the compacted soil, creating permanent aeration and drainage.

The Terrain Aeration Terralift machines penetrate the ground to a depth of one metre, releasing a blast of compressed air which fractures and relieves

However, before carrying out the aeration it is often necessary on old site layouts to determine what lies beneath and Terrain Aeration take a core sample using their specialist machinery.

The plastic sleeve which slides out of the metal casing reveals what the soil is like, from the top

soil down (in this example) to the clay structure beneath. The soil cores are taken to one metre depth and are also very good indicator to show where oil and diesel spillages have penetrated and how deep. The Terralift can then deal with the oil-bioremediation using specialist products in the area down to one metre depth.

Further down, flnt is encountered and the Terralift probe is

number of power unit and aerator combinations. “With a lot of the competitor machines, the aerator was limited to 4” penetration depths, whereas the Verti-Drain could go down to 6”, making a big difference to root depths, along with creating heave.”

They took delivery of the Carrier and Verti-Drain 1513 in combination early last year. As well as easing the strain on the club’s tractor, another key factor for the purchase was to use a lighter weight unit on the greens.

“It’s simple to use, safer being outside the cab and more efficien for the team than navigating the tractor with a heavy spiker on the back around the hills on our

course.” Though a number of machines can be connected to the Carrier, for Matt it is being used solely for aeration, and has already conducted upwards of 220 hours of aeration at the club.

“We used to pencil tine the greens four or fivetimes a year, that’s now 10 or 12 times. Our tees and approaches were aerated very infrequently, they’re now being done six times a year. That equatestoa200%increaseonour previous aeration programme.” That increase isn’t unnoticed by members who are commenting on the knock-on improvements in green and tee conditions.

designed to break through the solid layers, employing a JCB hammer incorporated as part of the machine.

Once the hard materials have been penetrated, the compressed air blast released creates fractures and fissures.These are injected with dried seaweed as part of the process, keeping, in this case, the clay seen in the core sample open and allowing surface water

to quickly drain down one metre, before naturally percolating away into the flint area.

Of course, not all compacted ground will have the same strata but the Terrain Aeration process is used to treat all types of waterlogging, from small gardens to parks, public spaces and sports pitches to bowling greens.

Terrain Aeration

Charterhouse Turf Machinery

Aeration have been treating problems for over 25 years and work regularly with construction companies such as Taylor Wimpey, Barrett Homes, Laings and smaller developers to provide a long-term solution.

SISIS goes back to school for aeration success

Andy Richards, grounds manager at Shrewsbury School, has reported excellent results from using a range of SISIS equipment to maintain the School’s widely praised sports pitches.

Breathing life into Andy’s grass is his newly purchased SISIS Javelin Aer-Aid tractor mounted aerator, and he had no problem in running it past the School’s bursars – as he explains.

“It was the machine I wanted because I had previously trialled

it and had good results,” he says.

“For example I Clegg hammered the pitches before and after using the Aer-Aid and had noticed a massive reduction in hardness.

I know that the Aer-Aid had recently undergone extensive Sports Turf Research Institute (STRI) trials and it came out with excellent results – which always gives you confidence and makes it easier to explain to the bursars why you want to purchase it.”

With 10mm diameter ‘tipped’ tines working at 75mm (3ins)

Reesink is first for 1st Products

Reesink Turfcare has secured the exclusive UK distribution rights for a specialist range of tractor mounted aeration equipment from the Americanbased company 1st Products.

First in the range is the AERAVator, a subsurface aerator whose unique osilating vibrating tine system loosens, rather than punches, the soil around and underneath each tine.

Allowing better air and water infiltration and easing soil compaction, the AERA-Vator does the job without leaving cores or plugs behind and means less post-aerification clean up.

The AERA-Vator is also able to aerate dry soil to reduce the expense of pre-irrigating; in fact, the harder the soil, the better the AERA-Vator performs. The AERA-Vator can also be equipped with a unique seeding box, allowing the customer to aerate and seed in one pass.

Promote

The AERA-Vator has the additional benefit of being designed with a universal frame system, so extra shafts can be added to expand its capabilities.

The shafts, available in conjunction with the AERAVator through Reesink Turfcare, are the Multi-Tine, Multi-Slicer, Multi-Spike and the non-PTO Coring shaft.

Reesink Turfcare

spacing, air is introduced from the Aer-Aid at a rate of 88 litres (3cu.ft.) per minute.

These air injection tines are specially designed to use the maximum air available from the compressor and produces clean, fresh air, while also ensuring

that surface disturbance is kept to a minimum. The cam trigger mechanism ensures that the air is always expelled at the bottom of the tine penetration, enabling treatment to be targeted precisely and consistently.

Wiedenmann saves up to five days a month work for team

Two new kit arrivals for a busy Middlesex grounds team are saving up to five working days a month.

The Wiedenmann Terra Spike GXi8 HD and the Wiedenmann Super 500, delivered in October, are significantly reducing time spent on aeration, collecting and scarifying.

Groundsman Industries offers wide range of solutions

Groundsman Aerators are available from 45cm (18”) to 180cm (72”) working widths.

All use Groundsman’s proven rugged Elliptical Plunge Action mechanism for aeration down to 15cm. Quick-change accessories are available for Solid, Hollow and Chisel Tining plus Cluster Tines for dense pattern aeration and seeding.

Core & Collect in one pass with a Groundsman Flexblade Collector now available to fi t many makes of aerators and turf vehicles. The Flexblade is most effi cient way to collect cores in all weathers scooping

the cores or linear aeration soil cleanly from the surface leaving the holes or slits open.

Don’t forget to check out the Groundsman two and four-wheel drive Turf Multi Cutters, they delivering effortless precision sod-cutting with the lowest operator handle vibration levels.

GroundsmanIndustrieswillagain be exhibiting their unique range of Turf Aerators, Core Collectors andTurfSodCuttersattheBTME exhibitioninJanuaryatHarrogate on stand Red 256.

The site, at Sudbury Fields in North West London, has four full size football pitches, three junior size pitches, 4 training zones and three cricket squares. On any given afternoon up to 200 pupils and PE staff from the independent boys’ day school, make full use of the playing facilities.

The Terra Spike will run at least once every three to four weeks, typically, September through until April or May. On 20 mm tines the team will comfortably get down to

250mmasnocomplex pipework lies beneath any of the pitches. The Terra Spike will not only help repair and replace levels but keep air and water moving through the profile.

Another key benefi t will come during March/April, when 400 tonnes of sand is put down to help aid pitch recovery as part of our renovations.

The Terra Spike’s efforts will also assist the way the team deliver chemical and fertiliser products required for the turf. Sand aids in unlockingpositivenutrientslocked up in the clay and the Terra Spike will allow the sand to work down into the clay to aid this process.

Wiedenmann UK

The colder months can have a significant impact on gardens, even the best cared for of lawns can need a helping hand to encourage new growth and revitalise them.

A key way of doing this is through aeration. The days of traditional aerating with a garden fork are gone, particularly for owners of larger lawns.

Plugr aerators from Billy Goat offer a compact solution that can improve drainage and promote new growth with absolute ease. By making holes throughout the turf that allow air circulation through the roots, Plugr products help restore lawns to their perfect green condition.

Ideal for large domestic gardens is the PL1800 reciprocating aerator, which has an 18” working width, along with four tines that puncture the turf and

place cores 2.75” deep, aerating at 22,000 square feet per hour. With an easy folding handle it allows for compact use, transportation and storage.

Billy Goat products are exclusively available in the UK through Henton & Chattell dealers nationwide.

Henton & Chattell

SISIS

Groundsman Industries

Meet the operator – Replay’s Michael Kelly

their contact details along with any information that is specific to that site such as the size, and type, of surface. PitchPassport365 has a job timer on it to which is started on arrival at the site and is turned off on completion. This helps us to track all of our visits.

sharing of information between the Replay offi ce, the customer and the operators on the road.

The system instantly connects us all, and the work I carry out on the pitch can be viewed ‘as-live’.

Keep on top of ‘little and often’ synthetic maintenance with Verti-Clean

When it comes to cleaning an artificial surface, many turf managers have found the little and often approach to be the most effective.

What is your current role at Replay Maintenance? How long have you been there and what was your route into the industry?

I became part of the Replay team following a recruitment drive day that Replay held. I have now worked at Replay for two years, as a Synthetic Surface Technician.

What training did you undergo when you started the job?

I began by shadowing an experienced member of the team who taught me the principles of the job and have continued to progress through the in-house training programme. Since starting, I have gone on to learn all of the various Replay Maintenance processes and completed my telescopic handler licence and forward tipping dumper licence. I have also attended first aid and health and safety courses.

What time do you start work in the morning, what does an average day entail?

Generally, my start time varies depending on the jobs I have scheduled to do that day, though it is normally sometime between 6am and 7am. My average day usually entails two jobs, one in the morning and then another in the afternoon.

How much information do you receive in advance of a site visit? What technology do you use to track and monitor your work?

All information is fed direct to me on a daily basis through the Replay PitchPassport365 system. I receive the name of the job and the address, the name of the site contact and

The average Replay Revive® visit takes approximately four hours to complete. The PitchPassport365 system also allows me to add before, during and after photos of the job, as well as alerting the office instantly of any issues that I find on the surface during a visitfed through using Replay Rescue.

What are the essential pieces of equipment on your truck, to complete the days task?

The Revive machine, which uses a wet and dry filter, is the core piece of equipment I use. I also carry three sieves of different sizes, which gives me the choice of which to utilise depending on the type of surface I am working on, the size of the infill and the weather conditions on the day. In addition, I have a leaf blower, refuse sacks, weed and moss sprayer and various other items in the van which are used during a site visit.

Most of your work is conducted independently – how much interaction do you have with the facility manager and are there many decisions you have to make on site?

On arrival at a site I will report to reception who will then point me in the direction of the caretaker who facilitates my visit. Working independently, I have to use my initiative when completing the job but if any major problems arise, I will speak with the main job contact.

Have you experienced any changes during your time at Replay, and if so, how have these impacted on, or improved, the service you provide?

The main improvement has been the introduction of Replay’s PitchPassport system which has significantly improved the

Is there a particular service you enjoy conducting?

There are many elements I enjoy, but in particular, I get a great deal of satisfaction conducting the specialist Revive visits. It’s the service we probably conduct the most often but it’s very rewarding seeing the improvement in the appearance of a surface. I also enjoy familiarising myself with people over the visits, getting to know them, their pitches and working together with them to produce a maintenance regime that works.

In your role you spend a lot of hours travelling between sites – what do you listen to and which song can you be caught singing along to?

When I’m in between jobs, I mainly listen to Radio 1 but if you’re going to catch me singing it’ll likely be to any song by The Courteeners.

How do you spend your free time?

I spend my spare time with my girlfriend and enjoy socialising with friends I also follow NottinghamForestFootballClub.

Replay Maintenance

Most material that will end up on the surface is natural debris and detritus, which if left will invariably get trodden on and broken down into the surface. Removing this as and when it occurs is the most effective way to prevent this material reaching the bottom of the carpet, which can ultimately cause issues with compaction and drainage.

The Verti-Clean from Charterhouse Turf Machinery will pick up surface debris with a rotating brush, powered by ground wheels, and throw it onto a vibrating sieve. The sieve filters any infill material

back on to the playing surface, whilst retaining the debris and collecting it in a lightweight hopper, that can easily be removed for emptying. The fi nish is a revitalised surface with clean infill.

A Verti-Clean 1500 has been used as part of the synthetic maintenance programme at Scotstoun Stadium since September 2017. The hard work of Head Groundsman Paddy Ferrie was recently rewarded as he was crowned the winner of the ‘Best Maintained Artificial Surface’ category at the IOG Awards. “On the synthetic surface, I conduct regular brushing to stand the fibres up, redistribute the crumb and improve the appearance of the pitch prior to matches” explains Paddy, who has been at Scotstoun

for two years. “Because of the pitch’s surroundings, at certain times of year we get a lot of leaffall and debris on the surface, for which I needed something that would conduct a more thorough clean.WiththismachineIcanwork atanicesteadypace,collectingany leavesordebrisbeforetheybecome embeddedintothepile.”

Koppl Hydro Compact Easy revolutionises synthetic turf care

German manufacturer Koppl produce an exciting range of interchangeable products which are designed to revolutionise groundscare by minimising the need for several different machines, thus reducing storage space and costs.

The Koppl Hydro Compact Easy, with its space saving design, is a flexible and convenient unit for all professional needs and multiseason use.

Available from PSD Groundscare with a wide range of powerful attachments, it offers a solution to even the toughest conditions including mowing, scarifying, weed clearing, blowing and snow clearing.

It also boasts a range of attachments specifically for

info@replaymaintenance.co.uk

synthetic groundscare, including various sweepers and brushes.

Unlike other synthetic turf care products, the Compact Easy’s clever design means instead of having to purchase a number of

machines for different tasks, you simply buy the attachments to fi t thebaseunit,avoidingtheexpense of different stand-alone units.

Charterhouse Turf Machinery

PSD Groundscare