Ag Progress Spring 2024

AG

SPRING 2024

PROGRESS

18m TurboTopper field trial

NAVIGATING CHANGE Adapting to a Dynamic Season in Australian Agriculture As we move through the year, Australian

managing large-scale hay crops, or ensuring

agriculture continues to navigate a series of

seed-to-soil contact in dry conditions, we’ve got

challenges, from fluctuating weather patterns to

solutions that help protect your investment and

shifts in global markets. Many regions throughout

maximize efficiency. Additionally, our latest

the southern states had delayed planting due to

innovations around the TurboTopper focus on

late rainfall or lingering dry conditions. However,

preventing moisture loss — a key factor during dry

on the positive side, strong market prices for key

months, helping farmers ensure a successful crop

crops such as wheat, barley, and pulses are

establishment. The mulching kit will also mulch

providing some relief, allowing producers to

stubble finely, allowing for easy seeding.

remain optimistic about the season ahead.

As always, we’re dedicated to providing

One of the hot topics this season has been the

Australian farmers with the tools they need to

increased focus on water conservation and soil

thrive, no matter the season. Thank you for your

health, especially as climate variability continues

continued trust in AusCut. We look forward to

to impact our region. Farmers are looking toward

supporting you through this dynamic period in

sustainable practices, from precision farming to

agriculture.

regenerative agriculture, to safeguard their land and resources. Equipment that minimizes soil disturbance and retains moisture is becoming critical in this pursuit. At AusCut, we recognize how essential it is to adapt to these changes, which is why we’ve been fine-tuning our product range to better support your operations in these evolving conditions.

Our new range of rollers, residue crunchers and TurboToppers have been designed with the specific challenges of Australian farming in mind.

Whether you’re growing legumes and lentils with harvest equipment operating close to the ground,

Bill Larsen Director of Sales and Marketing

6.5m AlphaCut mulching wheat stubble

STUBBLE RETENTION:

UNLOCKING SOIL HEALTH AND YIELD As harvest season wraps up, many farmers are

stubble had always been retained rather than

faced with a familiar decision: should we mulch,

when the stubble had been burned in 4 of the last

burn, or plough in our stubble? Each year,

6 seasons” (NSW Department of Primary

weather conditions, crop varieties, and paddock

Industries). These findings demonstrate how a

needs present different management challenges,

simple change in stubble management can

but one thing remains clear—retaining crop

significantly impact farm profitability.

residues is a vital component of long-term sustainable farming.

Key Advantages of Retaining Crop Residue

Reduced Soil Erosion By maintaining a protective cover on the soil surface, stubble plays a crucial role in preventing erosion. It protects from high speed winds and

The benefits of stubble retention are

absorbs the impact of raindrops, reducing the

well-established in Australian farming practices,

chances of soil being washed or blown away. The

providing multiple advantages for soil health,

NSW Department of Primary Industries states that

crop yields, and environmental protection. These

retained stubble “protects bare soil from

benefits include reduced soil erosion, increased

erosion after harvest by absorbing raindrop

soil moisture retention, nutrient conservation,

impact, increasing infiltration, and slowing the

enhanced soil microbial activity, and increased

speed at which water runs over the land.”

carbon sequestration. Research underscores these advantages, making stubble retention a key factor in boosting productivity and sustainability.

Increased Crop Yields

Improved Soil Carbon Sequestration Soil organic carbon is critical to maintaining soil structure and fertility. Studies from long-term trials near Wagga Wagga have shown that soil

Field trials across multiple seasons reveal that

organic carbon levels are significantly higher

crops consistently yield higher when stubble is

under no-till and stubble retention practices.

retained rather than burned. A recent study

According to research published in Soil Research

highlighted this by showing that “the yield of an

Journal, “the highest values of soil organic carbon

average grain crop is 22-23% greater when the

after 25 years of cropping were found in a wheat

Wheat stubble mulched with the AlphaCut

and clover rotation with no-till and stubble

pesticides. These emissions can have adverse

retention practices. The lowest values were found

effects on air quality and contribute to

in continuous wheat cropping where conventional

environmental pollution. By retaining stubble and

cultivation and stubble burning practices were

opting for mulching, farmers not only protect their

used.” This highlights the importance of stubble

fields but also contribute to a healthier

retention in preserving soil carbon and promoting

environment.

sustainable agricultural practices.

Enhanced Soil Moisture Retention

Mulching as an Effective Solution Mulching stubble is an effective method for

One of the key benefits of retaining stubble is its

addressing the challenges associated with

ability to improve soil moisture levels by reducing

residue retention, including issues like seed drill

evaporation and increasing the infiltration rate of

plugging and pest habitats. Mulching reduces

rainfall. Bhupinderpal-Singh and Zed Rengel,

the stubble into smaller pieces, promoting faster

in The Role of Crop Residues in Improving Soil

breakdown and simplifying the seeding process.

Fertility, explain that “retaining crop residue can

A well-executed mulching process also distributes

improve soil moisture content by reducing

the residue evenly across the field, suppressing

evaporation and increasing rainfall infiltration

weed growth and minimizing plugging during

rates, thus maximizing grain yield potential and

seeding operations.

water use efficiency.” In water-limited environments, this is a critical factor in ensuring that crops have the moisture they need to thrive.

Conserving Nutrients and Supporting Soil Microbes

The AusCut team, with its deep roots in both farming and manufacturing, has developed a range of mulching slashers designed to address these challenges head-on. Our mulching slashers

Retaining stubble also helps return essential

come in sizes ranging from 3m to 18m, offering

nutrients to the soil. Crop residues decompose

versatile solutions for any farm size or budget.

over time, releasing nutrients back into the soil,

Built by Australian farmers for Australian

which can then be utilized by future crops.

farmers, our equipment is designed to withstand

Additionally, soil microbes, which play a pivotal

the unique challenges of Australian farming,

role in nutrient cycling and soil health, thrive when

ensuring that you get the most out of your

organic matter from crop residues is available.

stubble retention practices.

When stubble is retained, more nitrogen is

SUMMARY

available to support these microbial communities, further enhancing soil fertility.

Retaining crop residue after harvest has

The Hazards and Pollution of Burning Stubble

many benefits:

Burning stubble, while a quick method of clearing fields, comes with serious environmental drawbacks. The EPA notes that agricultural stubble burning produces significant emissions,

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Increased crop yields

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Reduced soil erosion

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Improved soil carbon sequestration

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Enhanced soil moisture retention

»

Conserving nutrients

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Supporting soil microbes

including smoke particulates, dioxins, and

Mulching stubble minimises seed plugging

potentially hazardous breakdown products from

issues while promoting faster breakdown.

12m RollMax in the paddock at West Wyalong

FARM SMART: OPTIMISING YIELDS IN DRYLAND CROPPING With Alex Hillerman from “Benongal” near Balranald NSW Farming in dryland New South Wales presents its own set of challenges. For Alex Hillerman, who runs the 7,600-hectare broadacre cropping farm “Benongal” near Balranald, these challenges require efficient use of every tool in his farming operation.

In an interview, Alex opened up about the decisions behind recent equipment upgrades and how they contribute to the overall success of his

The Need for a Roller When asked about his recent equipment upgrades, Alex highlighted his decision to purchase a roller. “We upgraded from a lighter machine that didn’t transport easily,” he said.

A roller, while not the flashiest piece of equipment, is crucial for farmers who need to prepare large fields quickly and efficiently.

cropping system.

The added durability of a heavier roller ensures

A Strategic Crop Rotation

the soil, leaving a smooth, uniform surface after

At Benongal, Alex focuses on a strategic rotation of wheat and legume crops. The rotation includes wheat, lentils, peas, and vetch, and alternates between legume and wheat crops.

The legume crops play a crucial role in keeping grass weeds under control and naturally enhancing soil fertility by fixing nitrogen. This not only helps with crop yields but also provides a much-needed break in the cereal crop cycle,

that rocks and debris are properly pressed into planting.

Why The AusCut RollMax? With a range of rollers available on the market, Alex chose the AusCut RollMax for his operation.

The decision was driven by the machine’s solid build, simple design, and superior finish.

“It’s terrific to see an Australian company leading the way,” Alex said, praising the local

boosting long-term soil health.

craftsmanship.

Farming in low-rainfall areas like southwestern

His farm needed something robust that could

New South Wales requires precision, and for Alex, every decision from crop selection to equipment upgrades is made with maximizing efficiency in mind.

handle the heavy workloads associated with broadacre farming, and the RollMax fit the bill perfectly.

Performance and Early Results

of rain.

Although the RollMax has only completed one

Low-rainfall farming means that farmers must

part-season of work so far, Alex expressed

capture and store moisture from out-of-season

satisfaction with its performance. “The roller has

rains, which has led to tighter crop rotations and

operated perfectly,” he noted.

a focus on shorter, harder-to-harvest crops like

The initial results have given him confidence that

lentils, peas, and vetch. These crops are crucial

the roller will meet his long-term needs for soil

in maximizing water efficiency and ensuring that

preparation and crop management.

every drop counts.

Outstanding Customer Service

Advice to Fellow Farmers

One thing that stood out in Alex’s experience with AusCut was the proactive approach to customer

Alex’s advice to other farmers considering purchasing a roller is simple: don’t underestimate

care.

the importance of properly rolled crops.

After the purchase, the team contacted him about

“Rubber tire or lightweight rollers can conform

an update to the machine and promptly visited

over a rock or obstacle and leave it protruding,” he

the farm to carry out the upgrade free of charge.

warned.

“They are also interested in customer feedback

In contrast, a heavy-duty roller like the AusCut

and experience,” Alex added.

RollMax ensures a smoother field, which leads to

This level of service is essential in the farming

a faster, more efficient harvest and even potential

world, where reliable equipment and responsive

yield gains.

support can make or break a season.

“It simply has to be done, in my opinion,” he

Alex also praised his dealings with Bellevue

concluded.

Machinery, specifically mentioning Kent, who was

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described as “terrific to deal with, quick and to the point.”

Looking Ahead: The Future of Farming For Alex, the future of farming in his district hinges on making the most out of every millimetre

For farmers like Alex, investing in the right equipment, like the AusCut RollMax, is about more than just making the job easier—it’s about ensuring the long-term sustainability and success of their operations in challenging conditions.

Alex and his father, Howard, with their 18m RollMax

Tom McInerney, salesman at Bellevue Warracknabeal

DEALER SPOTLIGHT: BELLEVUE MACHINERY

Supporting Farmers Throughout the Region Bellevue Machinery has been a trusted name in

Bellevue, particularly with selling our RollMax land

Victorian farming since 2004. Owned by Chris and

rollers, which have become essential for

Jodie Taylor, the dealership operates from Swan

farmers in the region. These rollers roll stones,

Hill and Warracknabeal, with over 45 staff. Serving

clods, and residue back into the soil, creating a

farms across the Mallee and Wimmera regions,

smooth surface to protect harvesting and hay

Bellevue supports a wide range of agricultural

equipment. They also increase seed-to-soil

operations, from broadacre cropping to vineyards

contact, which helps improve seed germination

and orchards.

rates. Bellevue has received glowing feedback on

Bellevue’s experienced sales team includes Kent Hansen and Jamie Williams in Swan Hill, and Tom McInerney in Warracknabeal, while Sam

the AusCut rollers sold this season, with customers praising their durability and performance.

Wundersitz and Shaun Ritchie lead the service

Beyond selling machinery, Bellevue and AusCut

teams. Representing trusted brands like New

work closely to provide ongoing support and

Holland, K-Line, Hardi, AusCut and many more,

maintenance, ensuring customers get the most

Bellevue prides itself on offering the right

out of their equipment. Bellevue’s commitment to

equipment for each farmer’s needs.

farmers makes them a valuable partner in the

Bellevue stands out due to its personalized service and deep understanding of the local

region, offering not only top-tier equipment but also expert knowledge and long-term support.

farming landscape. Rather than focusing solely on

If you’re farming in the Mallee or Wimmera regions,

sales, the team at Bellevue have built strong

Bellevue Machinery is a reliable source for

relationships by ensuring farmers are matched

agricultural solutions. With their local expertise

with equipment that meets their specific

and dedication to customer care, they

requirements.

continue to be a trusted partner for farmers

At AusCut, we value our partnership with

seeking high-quality, efficient machinery.

18m TurboTopper field trial

PRODUCT FOCUS As modern farms grow larger and more complex,

cleaning to assist with the prevention of

the need for powerful, versatile machinery that

residue build-up on deck.

supports efficient, cost-effective farming systems becomes essential. That’s why the team at AusCut were recently tasked with developing an

3.

4. Extra-heavy duty gearbox and drive chain, with Italian Gardini Technik gearboxes.

18m TurboTopper to fit in with an 18m controlled traffic farming system.

5.

High deck clearance provides excellent residue mulch and spread.

This new unit had to be able to be pulled with a 500hp tractor, and be capable of cutting,

Narrow road transport width at 4.4m.

6. Adjustable rear flaps allow residue to be

mulching and evenly spreading a wide variety

evenly distributed, providing excellent ground

of crop types. These included cereal stubbles,

cover for soil protection.

sorghum stubbles, cotton residues and legume crops.

manufacturer globally had been able to achieve this task, with the largest marketed unit known at 12.8m. Along with the increased benefit of economies of scale, the 18.3m unit incorporated the unique features of smaller TurboTopper models, making it the top choice for modern farmers looking for maximum productivity.

Some of the key advantages of the 18.3m TurboTopper unit are: Five flex design accommodates five evenly split sections, allowing excellent contour following ability. This helps when cutting close to the ground in uneven country.

2.

Mulching blades break residue down into a finely chopped mulch that is easy to seed into

Until AusCut developed the 18m TurboTopper, no

1.

7.

Forward lift and fold, which allows easy deck

come planting time.

8. Heavy duty blade system that is equal to managing, chopping and mulching for pasture topping projects in pastoral country.

AusCut’s range of TurboToppers now come in widths of 3m, 3.6m, 9.3m, 12.3m and 18.3m. These complement our range of AlphaCut units that are available in 4.6m, 5.1m and 6.5m wide units.

This means that whatever size operation you have and whatever typical controlled traffic system you are working with, we have a unit that will suit your purpose.

Contact us today to learn more about how this unique machine can benefit you.

THANKS FOR READING