Issue 145 | November/December 2024 - Australian AgContractor & Large Scale Farmer
FEATURE
What’s new in fertiliser technology and spreaders
PROFILE
Dion Lebrun and the art of reinvention
& LARGE SCALE FARMER
NEWS
Pöttinger JUMBO Loader wagon celebrates 25 year anniversary
Fendt 500 Vario
Fendt 1000 Vario
Fendt 700 Vario Gen7
Fendt 200 V/F/P Vario
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SCALE FARMER - No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the prior written permission of the publisher. Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily that of the publisher and suggest independent advice be sought before acting on information or suggestions contained herein.
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02 FROM THE EDITOR: Strengthening agriculture: Resilience, innovation, and growth
INDUSTRY NEWS
03 Kubota Australia opens game-changing parts warehouse in Victoria
03 Dairy dreams do come true for Queensland’s Patrick English
04 South Australia’s Lucy Newman scrapes the cream in 2024 National Dairy Cattle Young Paraders Championship
06 Surprise in store with purchase of 10,000th sprayer
08 John Deere Dealers from across Australia and New Zealand descend on Toowoomba for Bootcamp
09 JUMBO Loader wagon from Pöttinger celebrates its 25 year anniversary
10 Show me the money in hay and silage
11 Manitou’s 50 years Down Under
12 John Deere Australian Technician of the Year Award winners announced
14 500,000 Claas combine harvesters: Behind the scenes TECHNOLOGY
16 Case IH goes live with new initiatives
17 Ag in Motion Innovation Award: CropScanAg for Innovation in Agronomics
18 Reaping the benefits of precision ag technology PROFILES
20 Dion Lebrun and the art of reinvention
24 Across the ditch: Family all hands on deck to drive booming business
FEATURES
30 What’s new in fertiliser technology and spreaders
40 What’s new in grain harvesting equipment
EQUIPMENT
51 Geared up for success
52 Generational SA transport business keeps growing
53 Farm easier with PTx Trimble
55 High tech seeding system revitalises ageing planter
56 TrailMix tip-trailer to improve silage operations
57 The best of both worlds
58 Make the grade with Kubota’s new Land Pride Box Blade
60 Midwest Fabrication recognised at Henty Machinery Field Days
STRENGTHENING AGRICULTURE: RESILIENCE, INNOVATION, AND GROWTH
AS WE APPROACH THE END OF ANOTHER YEAR, IT’S A TIME TO REFLECT ON THE CHALLENGES AND TRIUMPHS THAT HAVE SHAPED THE AUSTRALIAN AGRICULTURAL LANDSCAPE.
This year has been one of significant shifts, with weather patterns once again playing a pivotal role in shaping our crops, livestock, and farm management strategies. But while we are no strangers to the unpredictable nature of Australian farming, the past 12 months have underscored an issue that continues to be top of mind for many: the growing pressures around climate resilience and sustainability.
Our industry faces a complex balancing act: producing more with less, managing the impacts of a changing climate, and continuing to innovate in a way that respects both our land and our resources. From increasingly erratic rainfall patterns to the mounting need for water efficiency, the resilience of our agriculture sector has never been more critical. As contractors and large-scale farmers, you are at the forefront of these challenges, pioneering new technologies, farming practices,
and solutions to ensure not only the future of your businesses but also the health and sustainability of Australia’s agricultural heartland.
As this issue of Australian Ag Contractor & Large Scale Farmer is put to bed, we’re planning ahead to highlight some of the most pressing themes in our sector. From water management techniques to advancements in precision agriculture, it’s clear that the future lies in embracing innovation while staying grounded in the wisdom that decades of farming experience offer. The agricultural community’s adaptability and resourcefulness are key to ensuring that Australian agriculture continues to thrive, even in the face of unpredictability.
As the year winds down, I would like to take a moment to acknowledge the hard work and dedication that you, our farmers and contractors, put in day after day to keep the industry moving forward. It’s not just the physical demands of the land, but the mental resilience needed to navigate the challenges of a rapidly changing world. You are the backbone of Australian agriculture, and for that, you deserve recognition.
I would also like to wish all our readers a safe, peaceful, and joyful Christmas break. It
is a time for you to rest, recharge, and spend time with loved ones, reflecting on the year gone by and the promising opportunities that lie ahead. May the festive season bring you the peace and inspiration needed to tackle the challenges and successes that 2025 holds.
Stay safe, stay strong, and here’s to a prosperous New Year.
•
• No animal rejection
SCOTT WILSON
KUBOTA AUSTRALIA OPENS GAMECHANGING PARTS WAREHOUSE IN VICTORIA
KUBOTA AUSTRALIA HAS OFFICIALLY OPENED THE DOORS TO ITS STATE-OF-THE-ART PARTS WAREHOUSE IN VICTORIA, MARKING A SIGNIFICANT MILESTONE IN THE COMPANY’S OPERATIONAL GROWTH AND COMMITMENT TO DEALER SUPPORT NATIONWIDE.
After working with a third-party logistics provider for eight years, Kubota has centralised parts operations, bringing control back in-house to streamline efficiency, service and speed.
The new 17,000 square metre facility houses 130,000 unique part storage locations and boasts an impressive 14.6 metre ridge height for smarter, more space-efficient inventory management.
The Ravenhall facility, which opened in late July, is the result of over two years of research and development. It’s designed to optimise the way Kubota services dealers and customers around the country, all from a singular location.
Strategically located near Melbourne Airport and Kubota’s head offices in Truganina, the warehouse is primed for fast and reliable parts distri -
bution. This will ensure dealers have the tools they need to support Australia’s agricultural and construction industries.
Chris Nielsen, Kubota Australia’s General Manager for Service, Parts and Quality Assurance, highlighted the transformational impact of the new facility.
“With this cutting-edge warehouse, we’ve consolidated operations from three separate, third-party facilities into one, and we’re already starting to see the benefits. This is about giving our dealers and customers direct access to people who know these products intimately,” Chris said.
The Ravenhall facility is already delivering impressive results, reporting a first-time picking accuracy rate of 99.5 per-cent.
National Parts Manager, Patrick Loiacono, says this pre -
cision reflects Kubota’s dedication to excellence, not just in products, but in service.
“There’s expertise, and then there’s care. Not only does our team know how these parts work, we understand the urgency behind them. Whether it’s for a farmer in a critical harvest window or a business needing equipment to stay operational, we take pride in offering sameday dispatch and emergency part pickups,” Patrick said.
Kubota’s decision to bring its parts operations in-house reflects a broader strategy to
elevate the customer experience and strengthen dealer relationships by ensuring faster, more reliable service.
“We’re excited to take back ownership of this side of the business. This allows us another avenue to build on Kubota’s reputation for best-in-class customer service,” Patrick said.
Kubota Australia’s Ravenhall warehouse is now the central location for all national parts distribution. Customers can make an order for specific parts through their local Kubota dealer.
DAIRY DREAMS DO COME TRUE FOR QUEENSLAND’S PATRICK ENGLISH
AUSTRALIA’S MOST PROMISING YOUNG DAIRY CATTLE JUDGES DELIVERED AN IMPRESSIVE DISPLAY OF SKILLS AND EXPERTISE TODAY AT THE 2024 NATIONAL DAIRY CATTLE YOUNG JUDGES CHAMPIONSHIP, HELD AT THE MELBOURNE ROYAL SHOW.
Emerging victorious was 19-year-old Patrick English from Malanda, Queensland, who has now positioned himself as one of Australia’s top talents in the agricultural sector.
This prestigious competition, organised by Agricultural Shows Australia (ASA), brought together elite judges aged 17 to 25 from across the country, all of whom qualified through competitive regional and state events.
Patrick, whose family has
exhibited Illawarra cows at their local show for 108 consecutive years, was honoured to win against a talented field of competitors.
“I have lived all my life on a dairy farm, and winning this championship is a dream come true,” said Patrick. “It’s an incredible opportunity to represent my community and the hard work of my family.”
Patrick’s competitive judging path has been marked by a num-
ber of notable achievements, including a recent victory in the State Young Judges Finals held at his local show in 2023, qualifying him for this year’s national competition.
The dairy cattle young judges competition assesses who most accurately places the animals from first to fourth, according to its form and characteristics, and justifies their assessment.
SOUTH AUSTRALIA’S LUCY NEWMAN SCRAPES THE CREAM IN 2024
NATIONAL DAIRY CATTLE YOUNG PARADERS CHAMPIONSHIP
AUSTRALIA’S FINEST YOUNG DAIRY CATTLE PARADERS HAVE DEMONSTRATED THEIR PERFORMANCE SKILLS AT THE 2024 NATIONAL DAIRY CATTLE YOUNG PARADERS CHAMPIONSHIP, HELD DURING THE MELBOURNE ROYAL SHOW.
The Agricultural Shows Australia (ASA) competition brought together elite paraders from across the country, all aged between 15 and 25, who had qualified through regional and state events.
After showcasing their expertise in preparing, presenting and parading their animals, 21-year-old Lucy Newman from Prospect Hill, South Australia, was awarded the top honour, solidifying her place among the best young talent in Australian agriculture.
Lucy is no stranger to the parading ring, having already won a number of titles this year including the Reserve Senior Champion at International Dairy Week and the Champion Senior Handler at the Royal Adelaide Show.
At this year’s Melbourne Royal, Lucy is competing in both the dairy and beef cattle paraders finals.
“I have always adored handlers competitions and feel lucky to be representing South Australia for both the beef and dairy cattle in the 2024 national paraders competition, it’s truly a bucket list moment,” said Lucy.
Lucy runs her own Ayrshire stud, Arabesque Ayrshires, and
credits much of her success to the mentorship of her father and the hands-on experience gained from working on her family’s beef and dairy farm in Meadows, South Australia. Lucy is also heavily involved in her family’s Angus stud, Newlyn Park Angus, where she manages social media and marketing efforts for their annual bull sales.
Lucy competed alongside five other state champions, who all demonstrated clear technical abilities and a passion and dedication to the dairy industry.
In second place, representing Victoria, was 17-year-old Sienna Ross, who hails from a family dairy farm in the small town of Katamatite in northern Victoria.
Third place was awarded to 15-year-old New South Wales representative Alexis Allen, hailing from her family’s dairy farm at Cobargo, near Bega.
23-year-old Rachel English from Malanda, Queensland, 16-year-old Edward Dudfield from Somerset, Tasmania and 21-year-old Murray Findlay from Albany, Western Australia, also contended for the lead position.
Katie Stanley, Executive Officer of Agricultural Shows Australia, highlighted the significance of
the young dairy cattle paraders event.
“These young paraders are the future of agricultural competitions, which play a critical role in improving Australia’s food and fibre sectors. The National Dairy Cattle Paraders Championship is an invaluable opportunity for these young people to showcase and refine their skills.
“I extend my congratulations to Lucy Newman for the hard work and commitment that has brought her to this prestigious level, and I look forward to see-
ing all that she will accomplish in the future,” said Katie.
The competition is part of ASA’s national competition program, which encompasses nine categories, including beef cattle, dairy cattle, alpaca, poultry, Merino sheep, meat breed sheep and Merino fleece judging, as well as parading competitions in beef and dairy cattle.
For more details on the competition, visit: https:// agshowsaustralia.org.au/ youth-in-agriculture/national-championships/.
Competing alongside Patrick were five other state champions, all demonstrating excellent analytical and communication skills, as well as an evident passion for the dairy industry.
In second place was Angus Fraser from Tongala, Victoria, who had qualified for the second year in a row to represent Victoria at the national finals.
Third place went to 25-year-old Bridget Liebelt from Meadows, South Australia, who runs her own stud, Torlea Holsteins & Ayrshires.
Katie Stanley, Executive Officer of Agricultural Shows Australia, congratulated Patrick on his achievement.
“The National Dairy Cattle Young Judges Championship is a
keenly contested event and Patrick should be proud of the hard work and dedication it took to reach this prestigious level,” she said.
“These young judges are the future leaders of agricultural show competitions, and the young judging competitions offer a unique opportunity for them to grow personally and pro-
fessionally. I have no doubt that the crop of young judges we have seen here today will play a crucial role in advancing Australia’s livestock industries.”
The competition is part of ASA’s national competition program, which includes nine categories ranging from beef cattle to poultry and Merino fleece judging.
Rigid or 3-section frame and flexible cutterbar (Razor)
Widest centre section allows greatest wing flexibility
Exclusive, fully integrated air system behind knife for lowest losses
Floating, mechanical drive intake auger
Slim side panels for minimal disturbance of high value crops
SURPRISE IN STORE WITH PURCHASE OF 10,000TH SPRAYER
WHAT LOOKED LIKE A STRAIGHTFORWARD PURCHASE OF A BRAND NEW JOHN DEERE 616R SELF-PROPELLED SPRAYER DELIVERED SOME SURPRISES FOR NEW SOUTH WALES GRAIN GROWER, RICHARD MCKAY.
The new machine was, in fact, the 10,000th sprayer fitted with an ExactApply™ Nozzle Control System to be produced by the John Deere Des Moines factory in Iowa, USA and was delivered with much fanfare by Hutcheon & Pearce’s Dubbo dealership in late June.
Immediately, Richard put it to work on ‘Winnabri’, Warren, where he farms around 5000ha of winter wheat, canola and chickpeas with his wife Jess and parents, Mark and Valda.
“We’ve been using it on broadleaf weeds in wheat and just the accuracy of the spray job with the ExactApply system is impressive,” Richard said.
“Even with section control on a normal spray you’re over-spraying, but the 616R’s ability to compensate for the different sides of the boom through turns, and the lack of
overlap, is really impressive.”
The heart of the ExactApply system is a six-nozzle turret with multiple modes of operation to help maintain target rate and pressure. Turn compensation mode decreases the spray rate on the inside of a turn while increasing the rate on the outside, ensuring consistent application across the entire width of the boom.
The McKays have run a John Deere fleet since investing in 8 Series tractors in 2005, and now operate five tractors, an 8R310, 8370RT, 8520, 8520T and 6930, and two combine harvesters, an S780 and S660.
Six months ago, they were in conversation with Mitch Heath from Hutcheon & Pearce about replacing their main sprayer and camera sprayer, and investing in one machine for the job.
“Mitch has been our salesman
for 10 years and we ended up doing the numbers and trialing a demo 616R sprayer at home with a few of the neighbours and my brother from next door,” Richard said.
“We were just working on a mix of summer weeds in a fallow, green on brown, and the combination of ExactApply with the See & SprayTM Select system that sprays only emerged weeds worked really well.”
See & Spray Select uses advanced camera and nozzle technology to deliver a targeted spray to weeds, applying herbicide only where needed, and combines powerfully with ExactApply to reduce potential drift.
H&P DUBBO DEALERSHIP’S MITCHELL HEATH, SALES REPRESENTATIVE AND BRENDAN PRENTICE, PRODUCTION AG SALES MANAGER, TOGETHER WITH JOHN DEERE’S SMALL AG AND TURF MARKETING MANAGER, ERIN WAGSTAFF, PRESENT NEW SOUTH WALES GROWER, RICHARD MCKAY, WITH A FRAMED PICTURE OF HIS 616R SELF-PROPELLED SPRAYER – THE 10,000TH SPRAYER WITH EXACTAPPLY TO BE PRODUCED AT THE JOHN DEERE’S DES MOINES FACTORY IN IOWA – AND A SIGNED CARD FROM THE PRODUCTION TEAM.
RICHARD MCKAY WITH HIS 616R SELFPROPELLED SPRAYER – THE 10,000TH SPRAYER WITH EXACTAPPLY TO BE PRODUCED AT JOHN DEERE’S DES MOINES FACTORY IN IOWA.
“My brother and I both ordered 616R SP sprayers fitted with ExactApply and See & Spray Select,” Richard said.
“I then received a call saying mine was the 10,000th to be produced in the US, so my brother’s is probably model 10,001! We’re pretty happy with the way it’s turned out.”
As well as maintaining a target rate and pressure over a wider range of speeds, the 616R offers a very comfortable ride.
“It looked the way I expected but the comfort is awesome, and the 22-year-old worker who is driving it is very happy – it’s not a bad gig for him!” Richard said.
He said he was not surprised the 10,000th Exact Apply machine should end up in Australia, given the progressive nature of the nation’s farmers in their approach to technology.
“The current and next generation of Australian farmers are really keen to take up the newest technology that’s available. We’re looking to get yield as high as we can and that’s quite expensive, so we need to achieve it as efficiently as possible.
“Machines like this John Deere 616R Self-Propelled sprayer with ExactApply are going to make that possible. They’re the top level of farm machinery.”
JOHN DEERE DEALERS FROM ACROSS AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND DESCEND ON TOOWOOMBA FOR BOOTCAMP
MORE THAN 190 JOHN DEERE STAFF AND DEALER
PERSONNEL FROM ACROSS AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND DESCENDED ON A CROPPING OPERATION JUST OUTSIDE TOOWOOMBA IN SOUTHERN QUEENSLAND RECENTLY TO EXPERIENCE, FIRST HAND, THE COMPANY’S LATEST OFFERING OF EQUIPMENT AND TECHNOLOGY –INCLUDING THE ALL-NEW S7 SERIES COMBINE HARVESTER AND C-SERIES AIR CART.
Run in rotations over a fiveweek period, the “Technology Bootcamp” was developed by the John Deere team to give dealer leadership and sales staff a ‘ride and drive’ experience of the new machines, released earlier this year at Commodity Classic in Houston, Texas.
The intensive program also honed-in on the John Deere technology, such as See & SprayTM Select, as well as new automation within the harvest line-up that will help transform the efficiency and productivity of customers’ farming operations.
John Deere Director, Marketing, Ben Kelly, said the suite of new equipment and tech that had been announced in 2024 presented an ideal opportunity to bring together members of the John Deere team and network of dealers to drill down into how these can be used to support optimal economic and agronomic on-farm results.
“As a company, we are continually working on leading innovation that will deliver technologies that have real, tangible impacts on the success of farming operations,” Ben said.
“One of our most important pieces of work is collaborating with our dealers to share knowledge and expertise that can be taken directly back and shared with customers for use on-farm.
“What we’re particularly focused on is supporting farmers in not just adopting new tech, but also using that already in-built in their machinery which they may not be making the most of. These are tools which can genuinely have a transformative impact on operations and are already right there, ready to go.”
Throughout the ‘Bootcamp’ attendees rotated between stations mirroring each element of the grains production system – seeding, application and har-
JOHN DEERE DIRECTOR, MARKETING, BEN KELLY WITH THE C550T C-SERIES AIR CART.
JOHN DEERE PRECISION AG MARKETING MANAGER, MAX CUSACK SHOWCASES THE S7 900 COMBINE HARVESTER.
vest – as well as sessions focusing on the pathway to autonomy and management of data to drive informed decision-making.
Almost 20 pieces of machinery were brought to Toowoomba for the interactive experience, including two S7 900 combine
harvesters and one X9 1000 combine harvester, each with all-new harvest automation technology, a 616R Self-Propelled sprayer with See & SprayTM , an 8R370 tractor and a C650 air cart.
Hutcheon and Pearce Sales and Marketing Manager, Andrew
JOHN DEERE’S 8RX 370 WAS PART OF THE INTERACTIVE EXPERIENCE AT JOHN DEERE’S BOOTCAMP.
JUMBO LOADER WAGON FROM PÖTTINGER CELEBRATES ITS 25 YEAR ANNIVERSARY
THE VERY FIRST JUMBO WAS PRESENTED TO THE WORLD IN 1999 – A REVOLUTION IN THE AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY MARKET.
At the time, the Jumbo was regarded as ‘the new dimension in large-capacity silage wagons’ and was the first and only system to stand up to the emerging field chopper.
The Jumbo stood for efficiency, performance, top forage quality, operational reliability, economy, comfort and easy maintenance. And it was the first machine at Pöttinger to be designed entirely with 3D CAD. Jumbo inventor Pöttinger is now the world market leader in loader wagons. With a stable export quota of around 90 per cent, the company from Grieskirchen is a highly relevant global player.
A quarter of a century of Jumbo – that’s 25 years of experience and development, which has resulted in numerous sensational innovations.
An absolute novelty on the loader wagon market was the option for short-chopping the crop. The Jumbo 8000 model was the world’s first 25-millimetre harvester wagon.
Other innovations include the Easy Move swing-out knife bank, which ensures ergonomic working. The Jumbo beater rotors are used to loosen the crop.
The fully automated Autocut knife sharpening system ensures consistent cutting quality throughout the entire working day. The pickup is responsible for the clean and tidy collection of the crop.
Watt, said supporting customers in using the tech on their machines was one of his greatest priorities.
“The big thing that has stood out is trying to make sure that the technology that is already integrated into our machines is being fully utilised by our customers,” Andrew said.
“We spend a lot of time getting uptake of
our new technology through our customers, but as that speed of new technology increases we’ve got to make sure the adoption of that technology is keeping up with that.”
It was a sentiment echoed by Brandt Director of Sales – Precision Agriculture, Siobhan Lynch.
“When we go back, we want to run training
The once rigid front panel of the Jumbo 1000 has now become a movable, smart front panel. While the Jumbo was designed for tractors with up to 280 hp in 1999, the 7000 and 8000 Series can be powered by tractors with a maximum of 500 hp.
The Jumbo has always been a guarantee for the best forage. As a favourite on farms and with contractors, it has dedicated fans around the world – even outside of agricultural work. In the Pöttinger fan shop, it’s not just T-shirts and caps for young and old that are very popular. The loader wagons in toy format, the Jumbo pedal tractor trailer for kids and many other elefantastic fan articles are also in great demand.
with our staff, but also go to our customers and offer information stations, customer clinics – whether it’s online or in person,” Siobhan said.
“We need to get that word out there, not let them sit behind the wheel of their machines and not use the technology they’ve got.”
SHOW ME THE MONEY IN HAY AND SILAGE
HIGH QUALITY HAY AND SILAGE IS A SIGNIFICANT COMPONENT OF BALANCED DIETS FOR STUD CATTLE, LAMBS, DAIRY AND LOT FEEDING INDUSTRIES, AND IS ALSO A SIGNIFICANT INPUT INTO FEED FOR LIFE-STYLE FARMERS WITH HORSES AND VARIOUS OTHER BREEDS.
Top quality hay will attract the best prices as consumers are prepared to pay extra for higher feed quality with retention of leaf that gives them the best overall result.
Maintaining that nutritional value of your hay and silage is the primary purpose of using Si-Lac Extra Hay and Silage Inoculant. There is a very good reason that Si-Lac Extra is being used in some of the largest hay and silage producers for decades.
Feedlots have been adhering better baling practices for decades by using Si-Lac Extra. Better quality feed equals more weight gains.
INCLEMENT WEATHER AND FROSTED CROPS
SI-LAC® Extra is the ideal solution to help growers maximise the quality of their hay and silage where poor weather and/or frost may have affected the crop.
Our fast acting bacteria reduces heating and decomposition of frosted thus eliminating the aerobic, composting and mould caus-
ing bacteria that attack high moisture and frosted feed.
A key advantage is that Si-Lac Extra is applied as a freshly growing culture, thus maximising the exponential growth and effectiveness through its ability to rapidly alter the conditions for bacterial development.
Canola, as an example, can make a valuable feed source even if affected by frost. Whether you choose to make hay or silage the introduction of Si-Lac Extra optimises the outcome by maintaining a softer stalk and leaf retention.
However, if making silage it is always recommended that you apply extra layers of quality silage wrap for best long term results.
Contractors have long used Si-Lac Extra because they can offer a fast, efficient service baling safely at a high moisture rate. The ability to produce a nice, heavy, green bale full of nutrients sets them apart from the rest. Efficient contractors know they can save
*Reference available upon request
themselves time and diesel by not turning the crop over and waiting for drying time. That cost saving per paddock equates to significant increases in profits at the end of the season.
When discussing hay specifically the specialised bacterial formula in Si-Lac Extra providing an enhanced curing function means you can bale hay up to 25% moisture content. The ability to produce a bale at a high moisture content can be the difference between a harvest in the shed and losing the crop due to weather.
The value of that crop in the shed without risk of hay fires or mould growth. For most farmers using Si-Lac Extra is an insurance policy worth merely a few dollars on the bale.
“ONE MAJOR OBSERVATION THAT I NOTICED WAS THE DIFFERENT COLOUR BETWEEN THE TWO BALES ON OPENING. THE TREATED BALE HAD DEFINITELY MAINTAINED ITS ‘GRASS-LIKE’ APPEARANCE…. THERE WAS ALSO THE SAME CHARACTERISTIC NON-SMELL!”
Gordon Platfoot—Dairy Management Consultant
SI-LAC Extra is an Australian made bacterial inoculant developed by Grevillia Ag for use on their own dairies and stud cattle properties in the Northern Rivers of NSW.
With their on-staff Microbiologists and Laboratories so you can be confident that the clinical data matches the on-farm results that Si-Lac Extra offers the Australian Ag industry. The Si-Lac range of inoculants have been tried, tested and sold all over the world from their Australian manufacturing facility. The science is proven and Grevillia Ag are the innovators.
MANITOU’S 50 YEARS DOWN UNDER
THIS YEAR MANITOU MARKS 50 YEARS SINCE ITS RANGE OF ALL-TERRAIN FORKLIFTS WAS INTRODUCED TO OCEANIA. OVER THE PAST FIVE DECADES THE BRAND HAS BUILT A REPUTATION FOR PERFORMANCE AND DURABILITY, WHICH HAS MADE IT A STAPLE IN BOTH AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND.
Manitou hit the Australian market in 1973 and shortly after this it was launched in New Zealand. The brand’s origins trace back to 1958 when Marcel Braud and the Braud family introduced the first Manitou machine.
Initially, Manitou made its mark with rough terrain forklifts. These machines played an important role in construction and agriculture, sectors that are still major markets for Manitou machines.
Some of those early models, such as the MB30, are hard at work in regional Australia. They might not clock the hours of newer models, but their long working life speaks volumes about Manitou equipment’s robust build.
The oldest known Manitou still working in Australia is a 1974 MB20C. It was originally imported by Blackwood Hodge in Adelaide and sold to the Trotta Bros Building Company in Kapunda, SA. The Trotta family still own the MB20C and they regularly use it to move equipment in their storage yard.
The ‘Buggie’ is another piece of Manitou’s legacy. The Manitou
4RM20HP was a compact rough terrain materials handler that became widely known as the Buggie due to its manageable dimensions and height of just 1850 mm.
Today, the Buggie is synonymous with compact rough terrain forklifts in Australia. Even though competitors have entered the market, Manitou remains the benchmark for this type of machine, and plans for a new Buggie model are on the horizon.
Manitou’s portfolio extends well beyond forklifts, however. The range includes industrial forklifts, telehandlers, mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs), skid loaders, track loaders, and rotational telehandlers. All are designed to tackle tough jobs and help contractors and farmers handle their work efficiently.
Manitou’s commitment to its customers is a big part of its success. It has long term relationships with Australia’s largest rental companies but is equally supportive of smaller operations like local hay contractors.
In Australia it has a 30-year partnership with the Defence Force. While its relationship with the New Zealand Defence Force does not go back as far, it is also important. Two years ago
EACH YEAR, PRINCIPALS FROM MANITOU’S DEALER NETWORK IN OCEANIA COME TOGETHER TO DISCUSS RESULTS AND SET THE BUSINESS DIRECTION FOR THE BRAND.
Manitou delivered 21 units to the NZDF.
Manitou says it maintains a spirit of dedication and passion for the Australasian region. Although recent years have posed challenges, Manitou is enthusiastic about the future here.
Looking ahead, Manitou is ready to develop new, innovative products and lead the industry to new heights.
Manitou Australia sales and marketing manager JeanPhilippe Gilbert says Manitou
MANITOU WAS ESTABLISHED IN THE 1950S TO BUILD ROUGH TERRAIN FORKLIFTS.
is not focused solely on lifting equipment.
“It is about setting new standards and propelling Australia forward. With a legacy of excellence and a forward-thinking approach, we aim to continue making an impact and setting the pace for industry in New Zealand and Australia.”
THE OLDEST KNOWN MANITOU SOLD IN AUSTRALIA IS A 1974 MB20C.
JOHN DEERE AUSTRALIAN TECHNICIAN OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED
FIVE TALENTED AUSTRALIAN TECHNICIANS HAVE TAKEN OUT TOP HONOURS AT THE FOURTH ANNUAL JOHN DEERE TECHNICIAN OF THE YEAR AWARDS, ANNOUNCED AT A GALA DINNER EVENT IN BRISBANE RECENTLY.
Western Australia’s Bradley Skinner was named Australia’s Agriculture & Turf Service Technician of the Year, while Victorians Kirsten Rush and Andrew Moat took out the Parts Technician of the Year and Construction & Forestry Service Technician of the Year categories respectively. Queensland technicians also won two awards, with Daniel Barnes taking home the Service Apprentice of the Year Award and Tracy Hogan named as the Parts Apprentice of the Year.
John Deere Australia and New Zealand Managing Director, Luke
Chandler, congratulated the Australian winners and acknowledged the value they bring to their local communities.
“Bradley, Kirsten, Andrew, Daniel and Tracy represent the best of the best in customer service, technical proficiency and problem solving skills, and thoroughly deserve their awards,”
Luke said.
“The calibre of each of this year’s finalists is a testament to the value we place on providing the best possible service to our customers and communities. They came to Brisbane this
week with a proven track record of supporting farmers and construction and forestry businesses to increase their productivity and get the most out of their investment in John Deere equipment.
“It’s promising to see the pipeline of talented technicians who will continue to support our customers across the country.
“I would also like to acknowledge the New Zealand winners tonight, Marcus Vine, Daniel Stonely and Liam Gee.”
More than 130 nominees from 69 dealership locations were put forward for this year’s event, demonstrating the momentum the awards program has gained across Australia and New Zealand.
John Deere Australia and New
Zealand Director of Aftermarket and Customer Support, Steph Gersekowski, said the diversity of this year’s finalists showed it’s never too late to become a technician.
“Not all the finalists have traditional rural or farming backgrounds – many of them have made the switch from other careers,” she said.
“John Deere is committed to providing every opportunity to learn and develop within the role, which has been clearly on show in the standard of finalists we have seen over the past two days of testing.
“One thing they all have in common is a commitment to supporting our customers and contributing to the communities in which they work and live.”
THE 2024 JOHN DEERE TECHNICIAN OF THE YEAR AWARD AUSTRALIAN WINNERS.
Left to right: Australian Agriculture & Service Technician of the Year Award Winner, Bradley Skinner, AFGRI Equipment; Parts Apprentice of the Year Winner, Tracy Hogan , RDO Equipment; Service Apprentice of the Year Winner, Daniel Barnes , RDO Equipment; Australian Parts Technician of the Year Award Winner, Kirsten Rush, Brandt; and Australian Construction & Forestry Technician of the Year Award Winner, Andrew Moat , RDO Equipment.
JOHN DEERE AUSTRALIAN TECHNICIAN OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNERS
JOHN DEERE
AUSTRALIAN AGRICULTURE & TURF SERVICE TECHNICIAN OF THE YEAR
BRADLEY SKINNER, AFGRI EQUIPMENT, ESPERANCE, WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Announced as the Australian Agriculture & Turf Service Technician of the Year Award winner, Western Australian, Bradley Skinner said he knew he would face some tough competition walking into John Deere’s Australian and New Zealand headquarters in Brisbane this week.
“I feel really privileged given the calibre of all the other technicians and their years of experience compared to me,” Bradley said.
“It’s pretty humbling and I reckon I’ve done AFGRI, my region, and Esperance pretty proud.”
In the seven years Bradley has worked for AFGRI Equipment in Esperance, he has built enduring relationships with his customers, supporting a range of broadacre famers. Leaving a farm at the end of the day, knowing the equipment he has worked on is running and keeping the farmer operating is what he loves the most about his job.
“I put my best into my work, and to see the equipment running and know it’s making the farmer happy is actually the most rewarding thing,” he said.
Since he started his apprenticeship in 2017, Bradley said he’s seen many changes in technology, which not only keeps his role interesting, but drives him to continually develop his toolbox of skills.
“I'm always adapting my skills. Right now, I’m doing a dual trade to auto electrical,” he said.
“All our machines now are pretty much heavily reliant on electrical stuff, so it’s important to continue to learn.”
JOHN DEERE AUSTRALIAN PARTS TECHNICIAN
OF THE YEAR
KIRSTEN
RUSH, BRANDT, BALLARAT, VICTORIA
Claiming the John Deere Aus-
tralian Parts Technician of the Year Award was a moment of disbelief for Kirsten Rush, who has paved a successful career at Brandt Ballarat since she started in 2017 as a receptionist.
“I was shocked when it was announced that I was a finalist, so winning is just complete disbelief,” Kirsten said.
“I’m pretty proud of myself, my journey, and the achievements I've had along the way.
“This is my biggest achievement, and I am very grateful for the support that I've had.”
Before starting at Brandt, Kirsten had no previous background in agriculture, and said she rapidly gained deep appreciation of the industry and the importance of providing timely and accurate support to keep farmers operational.
“It’s been so important to learn to understand farming needs, the urgency around getting parts out quickly and efficiently and getting the right parts to the customer.
“I love dealing with customers, and over the past seven years I’ve built such great relationships with them.
“I absolutely love everything about it, and to top it off, I really love working with the John Deere equipment as well.”
JOHN DEERE AUSTRALIAN CONSTRUCTION & FORESTRY SERVICE TECHNICIAN OF THE YEAR
ANDREW
MOAT,
RDO EQUIPMENT, DERRIMUT, VICTORIA
Andrew Moat from RDO Equipment’s Derrimut branch in Melbourne’s west proudly took out the Australian Construction & Forestry Service Technician of the Year Award.
Competing against four other talented finalists, Andrew said he had enjoyed the testing as part of the Technician of the Year Award assessments.
“I really enjoyed the in-person testing – the instructors were great, and we always leave having learned a lot,” Andrew said.
Originally completing an apprenticeship as an aircraft mechanic, Andrew switched gears to undertake a diesel mechanic apprenticeship and work on heavy machinery. Three years ago, he found his true calling working on John Deere construction and forestry equipment.
Andrew enjoys the challenge of diagnosing faults and the sense of achievement in repairing them and building lasting relationships with customers.
“The best part of my job is probably helping people and going onto site when their machine isn’t working and when you leave it is. Really I just love getting people going again.”
JOHN DEERE SERVICE APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR
DANIEL
BARNES, RDO EQUIPMENT, BEAUDESERT, QUEENSLAND
As someone who has spent most of his working life as a dairy farmer, the John Deere Service Apprentice of the Year, Daniel Barnes knows all too well the importance of ensuring machinery stays operational.
The humble mature age apprentice, based at RDO Equipment’s Beaudesert branch, said his primary focus each day is to support his customers and understand their business.
“I like getting to know the customers and what they're doing with their machinery and with their business, and then being able to diagnose and help solve their problems,” Daniel said.
“It's very rewarding to see their machines get going again and to help them win.
“And for me personally, this is good as well, because it helps me grow as a technician and as a person, so I'm always thankful for the customers.”
While he’s looking forward to completing his apprenticeship, and becoming a fully qualified technician, Daniel is committed to continuing to learn, and said he had enjoyed the experience of the Technician of the Year Awards.
“It’s been a really awesome few days. I’ve learned a heap of different things and met a lot of great people,” he said.
“I know that it’s going to get bigger each year and more people will get involved, and I’m very excited to see what the future brings.”
JOHN DEERE PARTS APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR
TRACY HOGAN, RDO EQUIPMENT, EMERALD, QUEENSLAND
Still early into her career in agriculture, Tracy Hogan is already inspiring future farmers.
“I call them the ‘next generation of green’,” she said.
“I love seeing kids getting excited seeing a big John Deere header or a mower and explaining how it all works to them. It really inspires me and makes me super optimistic about the future of this industry.”
Until 18 months ago, Tracy had never been close to farm machinery, having previously serviced aviation equipment, however she’s covered a lot of ground in the first year of her apprenticeship at the RDO Equipment John Deere dealership in Emerald.
“The basic principles of machines are the same, but there’s a lot of specialised knowledge on equipment like a header for example, which has a lot of moving parts,” she said.
“We’re fortunate to receive amazing training, both in the dealership and from John Deere courses. There’s always something new to learn and a new challenge to tackle.
“The best part of my job is the customers and the unique challenges of repairing their parts. I’ve enjoyed getting to know them, understanding their needs and providing them the best service I can.”
Tracy said she was surprised to win her category at the Technician of the Year Awards.
“Win or lose this has been a great experience getting to meet new people and learn new skills, so to take out the title is a bonus.”
500,000 CLAAS COMBINE HARVESTERS: BEHIND THE SCENES
CLAAS RECENTLY CELEBRATED A SIGNIFICANT MILESTONE: THE PRODUCTION OF ITS 500,000TH COMBINE HARVESTER. THIS ACHIEVEMENT, WHICH HAS BEEN YEARS IN THE MAKING, HIGHLIGHTS NOT ONLY THE COMPANY’S RICH HISTORY BUT ALSO ITS ONGOING GLOBAL EXPANSION AND INNOVATION.
The journey toward this landmark began more than a year ago when the idea of commemorating the 500,000th unit emerged. Previous anniversary machines, including those marking the 300,000th and 400,000th harvesters, had been customized mainly in Harsewinkel, where Claas has traditionally produced the bulk of its combines.
However, with the company’s expanded international production network—including plants in Omaha (USA), Gaomi (China), and Törökszentmiklós (Hungary)—it was clear that this milestone needed to be recognized across the globe.
A GLOBAL CELEBRATION
Instead of a single anniversary machine, Claas decided to create several models, representing different product lines such as the Lexion, Trion, Evion, and Dominator, along with various cutterbars.
These eye-catching machines would not only be showcased in Germany but also across international markets, appearing at trade fairs in North America, China, and Europe, as well as on farms in Australia, France, the UK, and beyond.
DESIGNING THE ANNIVERSARY MACHINES
The design process was a collaborative effort across multiple departments. The anniversary machines were to reflect both Claas’s rich heritage and its modern innovations. The two main colors—silver and seed green— evoked pivotal eras in the company’s history, particularly the period from 1946 to 1961, when Claas solidified its position as a European market leader.
The metallic finish was chosen for its brilliance under sun-
light, making these anniversary machines truly stand out.
The design team incorporated the iconic Claas knotting hook—a symbol of the company’s first patent from 1921—into the machine's graphics. The final touches included large stickers with the overlapping "Claas" and "500,000" lettering, carefully placed to create a striking visual effect.
CHALLENGES IN PRODUCTION
The production of these special machines required intricate planning and coordination. A key challenge was painting the machines, as many components are made from non-conductive materials like plastic, which cannot be painted using the standard powder coating process.
This necessitated outsourcing to external paint suppliers, such as Mankiewicz Gebr. & Co., and involved dismantling over 60 parts per machine for external painting before reassembling them. Due to the size of the Lexion and Trion models, special measures were taken to ensure these parts could be handled carefully without damage during the painting and assembly processes.
The process culminated on May 30, 2024, when the first anniversary machine was ready to leave the factory. After a few days of drying, custom-made stickers
were carefully applied, with professional precision to ensure no bubbles or misalignments.
MORE THAN JUST A MACHINE
In addition to the anniversary machines, all Claas combine harvesters for the 2025 product year will feature a "More than a Machine" sticker, emphasizing the company’s commitment to engineering excellence.
This logo honors four key milestones in Claas combine harvester history: the combine-threshing-binder (the first European combine), the SF (the
first self-propelled harvester), the Dominator (a crucial advancement), and the Lexion, introduced in 1995 as a game changer for the industry.
As the 500,000th Claas combine harvester makes its way into the fields of the world, it marks not only a significant achievement but a legacy that will continue to be seen for decades.
These special machines ensure that the 500,000 mark will remain visible across the globe, representing both the past and the future of agricultural technology.
CASE IH GOES LIVE WITH NEW INITIATIVES
THE NEW FIELDOPS MOBILE AND WEB APPLICATION, CONNECTIVITY INCLUDED, AND EXPANDED API PARTNERSHIPS WILL ALLOW FARMERS TO MORE EASILY MANAGE THEIR FLEETS AND ACCESS ACTIONABLE DATA REMOTELY TO DELIVER BOTTOM LINE BENEFITS.
Case IH is launching a series of technology initiatives that put the farmer user-experience at the forefront.
The all-new FieldOps™ mobile and web application redefines the way farmers connect, view, and manage their operations with an expanded API integration. Case IH is also announcing ‘Connectivity Included’, eliminating subscriptions on selected new machines and simplifying the process of customising technology needs.
The Case IH FieldOps web and mobile app is available now for download in the App Store and Google Play Store.
FieldOps seamlessly connects and integrates agronomic insights and machine performance data, providing farmers with a comprehensive overview of their operations and their Case IH fleet.
Redesigned with special attention to
streamlining the user experience, FieldOps makes it easier to access agronomic and machine data from anywhere with a mobile or Wi-Fi connection.
Jeremy Duniam, Head of Precision Technology at CNH ANZ, says, “FieldOps gives us the opportunity to fulfill the three main needs farmers have with connectivity and precision tech: interoperability, ease of use, and data transfer.”
One key feature of FieldOps is the remote display view which allows farmers to see all parts of the in-cab screen.
Operators can be guided from a distance with the aim of minimising downtime and maximising productivity through quick and targeted assistance.
With FieldOps, farmers can monitor crop health, growth stages and field conditions to make informed agronomic decisions. Farmers can also track machinery usage, fuel consumption and machine performance with continual updates to improve operational efficiency, labour management and maintenance scheduling.
FieldOps also allows farmers to customise their view based on what’s important to them, including setting notifications, alarms and adjusting the settings for each machine, creating machine parameter favourites, and choosing between light or dark mode. Fiel-
dOps is purposefully designed to incorporate all Case IH data and information into one consistent, user-friendly interface across mobile devices and web browsers.
Customers can now get easier access to their agronomic and operational data, eliminating hurdles, navigating within digital platforms, and ultimately, helping improve productivity thanks to an expanded range of global API partnerships.
Additionally, Case IH has proudly announced Connectivity Included which removes subscription fees from Case IH technology for qualifying machines built after 1 October, 2024. With Connectivity Included, farmers can access all the benefits of connectivity without ongoing subscription costs.
Customers who wish to activate the Connectivity Included feature on existing machines with compatible telematic modems and a Case IH FieldOps account (previously AFS Connect) will be able to do so for a onetime fee by contacting their dealer.
“By simplifying subscription management and providing continuous access to our technology, farmers can unlock the benefits of the tech now, and in the resale process,” added Jeremy.
For more information about Case IH precision technology, please visit caseih.com or talk to contact your local dealer.
AG IN MOTION INNOVATION AWARD: CROPSCANAG FOR INNOVATION IN AGRONOMICS
CROPSCANAG WAS PLEASED TO ACCEPT THE ‘INNOVATION IN AGRONOMICS AWARD’ FROM THE AG IN MOTION ORGANISERS AT THE 2024 AG IN MOTION, WESTERN CANADA’S OUTDOOR FARM EXPO HELD AT LANGHAM, SASKATCHEWAN, CANADA, JULY 17-19, 2024.
The Ag in Motion 2024 Innovations Program presented by TD Agricultural Services is where the latest ideas and products in farming are featured to showcase innovative solutions for Canadian farmers. The innovation awards event was split into five sections: Agronomy, Environment Sustainability, Business Solutions, Livestock, and Equipment. CropScanAg applied for the Agronomy section of the event.
CropScanAg has been recognised for its revolutionary Near Infrared analyser that is mounted on a combine harvester whereby it measures protein, moisture and oil in grains and oilseeds as they are harvested. CropScanAg has developed the market for on combine NIR analysis and enjoys the absolute market leadership around the world. The CropScanAg technology provides farmers with a simple and reliable means of generating variable rate nitrogen fertilization applications which ensure an increase in yield and an optimization of protein and oil in grains and oilseeds.
Dean Scrivens, CropScanAg Technical Specialist in Canada, accepted the award. He was
asked to give an explanation of the CropScan system to around 300 businessmen, political representatives, college representatives and farmers who attended the award presentations.
“The CropScan system is truly an innovative technology that helps manage inputs being put into the farmer’s fields. Since protein is an indicator of the nitrogen that was available to the crop as it was growing to maturity, the CropScan system can help the producer and his agronomist to ‘even out’ high and low protein zones of the fields and increasing yield by applying nitrogen fertilizer in zones which are N limited.”
The CropScan system helps reduce overall nitrogen inputs thus saving money on fertilizer costs, and the environmental impact that can be reduced by not using excessive nitrogen in the crops.
The CropScanAg N-GAUGE app simplifies the collection and analysis of the harvest field data layers and generates a complete suite of field and analytical maps that assists farmers and their agronomists to generate variable rate nitrogen fertilization prescriptions maps. Using N-GAUGE, these prescription maps can be downloaded to the farmer’s VRF implements directly from the smart phone or tablet PC in minutes rather than days. The N-GAUGE app also provides grain logistics directly on the farmer’s smart phone whereby every tank load of grain can be tracked from the field to the silo and then to the buyer.”
As part of the award, CropScanAg will receive an estimated $10,000.00 in free
advertising in papers such as ‘The Western Producer ’ and the ‘Grain News ’ as well as exposure on country radio and TV stations across Western Canada.
For more information on the CropScanAg technology please visit the CropScanAg web site: www.cropscanag.com or contact CropScanAg at dean.scrivens@cropscanag. com.
“Also using our liquid setup for inoculating is really easy, we use the same tank, the same pump, and even the same line meters. We simply turn taps off and on, so that the inoculant is sprayed onto the seed as it goes down the seeding tine. The plants look great and there’s plenty of Nodulation”
TOM JOHNSTONE, NSW
REAPING THE BENEFITS OF PRECISION AG TECHNOLOGY
by Justin Van Viersen
AS WE LOOK TO THE NEW YEAR, AUSTRALIAN FARMERS ARE ONCE AGAIN BEING CHALLENGED TO MEET INCREASING DEMAND WITH FEWER RESOURCES.
Farmers who are able to leverage their budget and create efficiencies will generate more value and find themselves in the best position for a successful 2025. To do so, consider implementing precision ag technologies with a holistic approach to boost the profitability of your operation.
SPEND YOUR BUDGET STRATEGICALLY, WITH BRANDAGNOSTIC SOLUTIONS
In today’s market, there are countless products and technologies to consider.
With each one, farmers usually have to contend with the unexpected costs of implementation and compatibility with the rest of your fleet.
You can avoid overspending if you look to retrofit solutions, which provide flexibility and customization to get the most out of existing equipment, without creating new
and costly compatibility issues, which are often part of the deal when you purchase new equipment or overhaul existing tech.
Farmers can also invest in brand-agnostic solutions to make guidance and steering more efficient. These tools enable you to connect operators with a consistent user experience, no matter the vehicle they’re in.
Having the ability to move displays and steering systems across your entire fleet also benefits the efficacy of initial applications, eliminating skips and overlaps, and ultimately saving you money on crop nutrition and protection products.
ALL YOUR DATA, IN ONE PLACE
However you decide to manage the mix of precision ag tools and technologies you’re implementing on your operation, don’t overlook the value of the ecosystem you use to manage all of the data generated by these tools.
Farming in 2025 is as much about technology as it is about the plants. It’s vital to be able to access the insights that are going to have a positive impact on your farm, on your decision making, and that can only come if you have the full picture.
If you haven’t already, consider investing
in a single ecosystem that has the capabilities to integrate data sharing across multiple devices, streamline or automate time-involved tasks, and offers a consistent user experience across in-cab displays – regardless of machinery brand.
WHERE TO LOOK FOR ROI IMPACTS
Precision ag technologies have the power to help you realize the success of your farming operation. Monitoring and tracking the impact of these technologies will give you confidence the ROI is there.
Key markers that can indicate you’ve got the right mix include: equipment performance and accuracy, the lifespan of existing equipment, cost-savings generated by reduced chemical and fertilizer use, and improved investment opportunities because of cost-savings.
About Justin Van Viersen
Justin is a commercial director with PTx Trimble, a new venture established in 2024 to better serve farmers worldwide with industry-leading smart farming solutions. Based in Perth, Justin oversees operations throughout the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region.
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Dion LeBrun
AND THE ART OF REINVENTION
SMALL RURAL TOWNS ARE THE GLUE THAT HOLD SURROUNDING FARMING COMMUNITIES TOGETHER.
A place to socialise, stock up on groceries and stock feed, and agricultural equipment. But the fortunes of rural service towns are closely tied to the highs and lows of the local agricultural economy.
An effort to lessen the impacts of these financial fluctuations, and improve the economic outcomes for businesses in his own town of Tumby Bay, has surprisingly led cropping farmer Dion LeBrun into the global art world.
And, while he may be heading into his retirement years, Dion has found unexpected fame in one small corner of South Australia.
Off the beaten track at the timber town of Wirrabara, Dion’s rugged face looks out from a 28m high grain silo. With a wellworn hat shading his face and an axe swung over his shoulder he looks the picture of the old-time timber workers that were the
backbone of that area.
The painted silo is one of around 18 in South Australia, and one of 53 on the Australian Silo Art Trail.
But how did Dion’s likeness, when he is not a local of Wirrabara, nor a forester, end up on a silo four hour’s drive away from his farm?
When the town folk at Wirrabara were looking to become part of an early wave of silo art springing up across rural Australia six years ago, the image
of an outsider would eliminate any friction over who should be painted on the close-knit forestry town’s silo.
“The community there decided they didn’t want a local person portrayed on the silo as it could cause problems. Why wasn’t this
THE LEBRUN FAMILY HAVE BEEN FARMING ON AYRES PENINSULA IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA FOR 120 YEARS.
person picked or that person, or why was this person picked because they’re a bloody idiot –that sort of thing,” says Dion.
Though not a forestry worker Dion’s face fitted the bill.
“I’ve got a farmer’s face. I’ve spent too much time out in the sun - weather beaten and busted up,” he reckons.
But Dion’s towering art story begins earlier than this and closer to home.
Although Dion reckons his own skills see even stick figure drawing as a challenge, he became involved in the art world after a move to improve the economy in his own small coastal home town of Tumby Bay, 380 km down the coast from Wirrabara, on the Eyre Peninsula, and 600km west of Adelaide.
At a business breakfast put on by a local bank seven years ago, a speaker from a similar small
rural town had given the local Tumby Bay commercial group some insights into how they had grown the economy of their area by looking beyond the local agricultural community. Based around the natural attractions of their area, tourism had become their new economic driver.
As president of the Tumby Bay Progress Association, Dion, along with other local business owners, began brainstorming on how to bring tourism into the Tumby Bay area.
Silo art was just getting off the ground then, and painting a local grain silo was a popular suggestion. Design company Juddy Roller, who developed the concept of silo murals, were contracted for the project. Along with managing the projects, they also locate the artists.
Choosing a local theme to make
crowd was recommended.
Leading Argentinian street artist Martin Ron was brought in and saw him painting a mural based on an image of a couple of local boys jumping off the Tumby Bay jetty.
The painted silos became the catalyst for a major change for the town.
While the mural would get people to pull off the highway, the challenge became how to draw them down the side road to Tumby Bay township, a couple of kilometres away.
With Dion at the helm, a street art festival was decided on. This saw around 30 murals painted on walls in the town by some world class artists.
“We’ve gone for quality,” says Dion. “People will drive a long way for quality but they won’t cross the road for average.”
THE PAINTED SILO AT TUMBY BAY WAS THE START OF TOURISM BECOMING AN IMPORTANT NEW REVENUE STREAM FOR THE RURAL TOWN.
basically an art installation has been a big success.
The influx of visitors has benefitted the entire community, and has meant that, for a small town, they actually have a decent café culture, with tourists also underpinning other local business, he says. The bakery and supermarket are as well stocked as a major centre because of the tourist dollars that come through.
Dion’s wife Maria, who has been administrator on the farm since they married, has now become a barista in the bakery.
While she doesn’t drink coffee herself, Maria enjoys making it. The added income goes toward their increasing semi-retirement travels.
One of the artists who worked on the town street murals and goes by the name of Smug - aka Sam Bates - is something of a ‘rock star’ in the art world. Originally from Melbourne, he now lives in Glasgow.
Along with the Tumby Bay street art, Smug was also commissioned to paint the silos at Wirrabara.
Now in need of a timber worker model, and having gotten to know Dion, Smug suggested his rugged outdoor looks would be a good fit for the silo. This saw Smug spending nearly three
DION LEBRUN’S LIKENESS GAZES OUT FROM THE WIRRABARA GRAIN SILO.
weeks in a boom lift bringing the design, which included Dion’s likeness to life.
The LeBrun family have farmed on the Eyre Peninsula since the early 1900s with Dion the sixth-generation on the land.
The original coastal farm has been added to over the years until they now have six parcels of land scattered over an area within 60km of Tumby Bay.
The sandy loam of the coastal farm also harbours shallow limestone rock caps. Breaking this rock down has been a work in progress over the years with a contractor brought in periodically, operating a Reefinator. This equipment rips the soil, bringing the rock to the surface where a heavy, water-filled roller following behind crushes it.
Cropping is the biggest and most profitable part of the business, with around 3500 hectares in a three crop, three-year rotation.
This sees a mixture of cereals grown although 90 per cent is
wheat, the rest mostly barley. Nitrogen-fixing legumes follow – mostly lentils, and depending on the soil type and rainfall environment, a small area has fava beans. Oil seed like canola follows on behind.
Depending on how the season or markets are going, another cereal may follow the legume crop instead of oil seed.
Variable rainfall across the farms from 320mm to 400mm annually sees maximizing rainfall an important issue, with measures in place to conserve moisture in the ground and subsoils.
This sees no-till cultivation and preparation for next year’s crop starting at harvest with a ‘beer can’ height cut close to the ground.
To reduce weeds, which suck up moisture they need for the crop, the headers have Seed Terminator seed destructors on them. These help to overcome chemical spray resistance in
DION’S GRANDCHILDREN ARE THE EIGHT GENERATION GROWING UP ON THE EYRE PENINSULA FARM.
weeds, by collecting all the weed seed that comes off the header/ harvester sieves, and putting them through big cage mills which pulverize the seed. When summer rain falls and weeds start to grow, they spray to keep the soil bare. Over a peri-
od of time, destroying the seed using the Seed Terminator runs down the seed bank, so they don’t have to be as reliant on chemical control, Dion says. Some of the land is granite-based and too steep and rugged for cropping. Here Dion runs
around 1200 self-replacing Merino ewes and a couple of hundred hoggets. Meat is the money spinner here with wool a sideline.
Always mindful of the local economy Dion prefers to buy farm equipment at the local dealers. He knows he’s going to get good after-sales service there, but also feels it’s important to support the business so it stays in the town.
This sees him with a mix of mostly Case and New Holland tractors and machinery used across the various properties. The big articulated 500 tractor is a New Holland while the utility tractor which tows the spreader and the chaser at harvest is a Case. There’s also a Case self-propelled sprayer, and a couple of New Holland harvesters.
While farming has become traditional for the LeBrun family on Eyre Peninsula, it is a far cry from their pre-settler European traditions. And their beginnings in Australia in the 1850s certainly don’t follow the usual settler storyline.
From a traditional French military family, with his father aidede-camp to Napoleon Bonaparte and his grandfather having been Governor of Genoa, young Barron Frederick Le Brun, in his early 20s, had caused a family scandal by rebelling against a future in the French cavalry in the late
1840s, and absconding from service. He was sent back to France in disgrace by his uncle in the United States after heading there in search of a new life, Frederick then sailed to Australia. Here he joined the gold rush at Ballarat before heading to Port Lincoln in 1853 after the French military came looking for him. There he ‘went bush’ until they gave up the search and left, with Frederick later marrying, raising a family and spending the rest of his days in the area.
And life on the peninsula has had much to offer the LeBrun family over the years. Dion has enjoyed an upbringing that included plenty of surfing, fishing, and diving. His four sons are all surfing mad, he reckons.
Having never been fishing before, when artist Martin Ron stayed at their farm - while painting the local silo, he proved to be an enthusiastic fisher when Dion took him out in the boat.
In stark contrast to the fami-
UNLIKE THE SEED FOR THE OTHER CROPS CANOLA IS A HYBRID, NEEDING TO BE BOUGHT IN EACH YEAR.
ly expectations the rebellious Frederick had rejected, Dion and Maria have always said their four sons needed to get some life experience before they made any decision about their future.
Lenny, Isaac, Jordan and Harry have all been encouraged to get a trade or try another line of work first, and to travel as much as they can before deciding whether to work the farm.
“You need to be passionate about farming as it’s not an easy job at times,” Dion comments.
Isaac and Jordan, both in their 30s, have tried farming, but decided it isn’t for them and have gone on to other things. At just 17, Harry is still figuring out what he wants, while 40-year-old Lenny has largely taken over the running of the farm from Dion.
Pleased with how he is running the place, Dion says he has been happy to relinquish the reins to Lenny and his Scottish wife Debs, who he met while travelling. Their two young sons are now the eighth generation on the farm.
For his part, farming was always likely for Dion who had spent the last two years of schooling at an agricultural college before going home to the farm.
But he had also experienced working life outside the farm gate.
At times when the farms finances were down, Dion and his brother Steven would work off-farm. Dion went shearing,
and then both of them became involved with the tuna fishing industry.
The farming operation was small enough their father could largely manage it himself with Steven coming home for busy harvest times, while Dion would come home for crop planting. After Steven tragically died young from melanoma, Dion came home full-time.
His father was happy to relinquish control early to him and Dion has continued this with Lenny.
“Families working together can be a balancing act,” Dion says. “But you’ve got to respect the generation coming after you. They’ll have different ideas, but they’re the future, and will reap the consequences of whatever their decisions.”
Dion is taking more of a back seat these days and is semi-retired. Unless it’s a particularly busy time like seeding or harvesting, he doesn’t have to go to work, although he can’t imagine ever giving up farming entirely.
Meanwhile the coastal town of Tumby Bay is busier with a more diverse business mix and is less impacted by agricultural cycles.
“While people move to the regions for the quiet and tranquility, we all need the businesses in our towns. If they’re going to survive, they need more than just the local residents. And it creates jobs, so kids don’t have to leave town. They can get jobs in town in hospitality and things like that,” says Dion.
“Rural towns need to evolve or they will stagnate or die.”
More information on Australian Silo Arts Trail https://www.australiansiloarttrail.com.
family all hands on deck TO DRIVE BOOMING BUSINESS
FERG MACDONALD STARTED WANAKABASED CONTRACTING COMPANY GREEN TO GOLD IN 2008. IT BEGAN WITH HIS OBSESSION FOR DRILLING AND HARVESTING WITH HIS COMBINE HARVESTER.
Now Green to Gold runs two combines, two self-propelled forage harvesters, two balers, 19 tractors and employs up to 25 staff.
It is very much a family business. The Macdonald family had owned an arable, sheep and beef farm in Northhope, Southland. Ferg and his wife Ali sold the farm and moved to Wanaka, supposedly to retire.
would be home early because of the good weather. Mum was silly enough to agree to him buying the first Claas Lexion combine.” Business expanded as clients asked for more services prompting Ferg to get more gear. They now also offer silage, balage, cultivation and drilling.
ALTHOUGH MOST OF THE FLEET IS JOHN DEERE GREEN, GREEN TO GOLD RUNS TWO MASSEY FERGUSON 8732S.
looks after silage and Finn runs the trucks.
Later, Tom, Luke and their cousin Finn all joined the firm. For the last five years they have been in management roles. Tom mostly looks after HR and balage, Luke
Tom and Luke share operations management between them with each looking after about half the clients. A big part of their job is setting up the young opera-
At that time their eldest son Sam was farming, their second son Tom had begun a builder’s apprenticeship and the youngest two, Luke and Georgia, were still at school.
Tom says Ferg saw an opportunity because no one in the local area had a decent combine.
across ditch the
PROFILED IN NZ’S RURAL CONTRACTOR & LARGE SCALE FARMER OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2024, WE VISIT CONTRACTING COMPANY GREEN TO GOLD IN WANAKA, NEW ZEALAND.
“He spoke to Mum, said the weather was fantastic and he
THE TARRAS WATER SCHEME HAS GIVEN GREEN TO GOLD MORE WORK BECAUSE IRRIGATION HAS INCREASED THE PRODUCTIVITY OF MANY FARMS.
tors and then checking on others to ensure the farmers are getting what they want.
Ferg remains obsessed with harvesting, although it is fortunate they now have two combine harvesters because Tom is equally eager to be operating one.
“Ferg was harvesting in a paddock with me and jumped on the RT and said, ‘The only way to get rid of me out of this, is in a box’. He really enjoys it.”
In addition to this, Ferg does quality control and okays the invoices. Invoices are generated from information the operators provide on the Ag Drive app.
Ali brings meals out for the operators when the work is flatout. She also has to approve every purchase to keep Ferg under control.
Another key person in Green to Gold is Claire Crowe in the office.
“She is the real secret glue. It is great having an office person who understands what the boys are trying to achieve on a daily task.
Ferg can focus on quality and clients.”
Tom says Green to Gold is a beast to run and there is no way one person could do it by themselves. It needs all the of the family’s involvement to keep quality up, pay attention to detail and, most importantly, maintain relationships with clients.
“We can keep two clients happy at once, or have both on one job to get the timing right. This might be getting a seedbed ready for fodder beet by the 20th of October.
“By doing large blocks with two machines at once, it makes it easier for the next pass. If we get the seed in on time using two planters, then there is a decent
GREEN TO GOLD PLANTS FODDER BEET AND MAIZE WITH TWO 16-ROW, 6M KVERNELAND OPTIMAS, WHICH ‘NEVER MISS A BEAT’.
AG WORK
Green to Gold’s season begins with cultivation and reseeding in spring. All the cultivation gear is
“It is built tough. Every weld
GIVEN THEIR LOCATION IN CENTRAL OTAGO, GREEN TO GOLD HAS HAD NO TROUBLE RECRUITING OVERSEAS MACHINERY OPERATORS.
is twice as thick and every box section twice as strong. When dealing with rock after rock, Amazone cultivation gear is best at handling it.”
Amazone gear includes Cenius rippers, Certos compact discs, Catros discs and then 6m Cirrus drills. The drills are used for cereals, brassicas and pretty much everything that requires worked ground.
“Our Cirrus drills have Catros discs on the front, so we can do one less pass, and then get the final pass with the drills. We are forever keeping in mind that budgets are a thing, now more than ever.” Tom says.
They also run Duncan Renova-
tor direct drills which can apply fertiliser with the seed. Direct drills are a low-cost option for clients and sometimes a better option when conditions are dry.
“Sometimes the ground is too dry. It is like concrete, but the direct drill can still bite in and make effective seed to soil contact which holds any moisture that is in the ground.”
Fodder beet and maize are planted with two Kverneland Optimas. These are 16-row, 6m precision planters.
“They never miss. They are bullet-proof and the best drills I’ve ever seen for seed depth and spacing,” Tom says.
Also, early spring is when the first wave of overseas staff arrives. Most are from the UK.
“We have been really lucky with overseas and local help. Your staff are the core that keeps the company flowing.”
Tom says they always have lots of people applying for work. “Our location is amazing for getting
the wanaka area is being carved up into lifestyle blocks
Inevitably this has meant some lifestyle block owners have become Green to Gold clients. Most of them have urban backgrounds and generally they develop trusting relations.
Tom Macdonald generally recommends they put it in lucerne and Green to Gold then makes it in to baleage.
“We organise the whole job. We mow it when it is at its best quality and put money in their bank for them when it is sold. With minimal effort from the owner, the land pays the rates, stays tidy and everyone is happy,” he says.
Land at Tarras has been sold for an airport. That will take clients out of the equation, but then there may be contracts to maintain the land surrounding the runways.
overseas and local staff.”
Staff work hard, then on their days off they have a glorious landscape to go explore.
“We treat them well. We have good gear and good accommodation and when they go home they tell their family and friends how great the experience was. Then more enquiries for work roll into my inbox.”
The family is also willing to take on beginners and train them. During Covid that was a necessity.
“Half to three-quarters were new to the industry. That made for challenging times. They required a bit more supervision. It was fine and they still enjoyed themselves.”
AND ARABLE FARMERS.
Another big part of training and safety is to assure the team that it is fine to phone with questions.
“They want to prove themselves and show they know what they are doing, but we are forever telling them it is okay to ring and ask the same question four times. It just tells me that you want to get it right. We won’t get grumpy. It takes the edge off and makes an environment with no pressure,” Tom says.
An Irish YouTube channel ‘Grassmen’ came to Wanaka last
THE BUSINESS DRILLS BRASSICAS, CEREALS AND ANYTHING ELSE THEIR CLIENTS WANT.
GREEN TO GOLD LOOKS AFTER LIFESTYLE BLOCKS AS WELL AS DAIRY
GREEN TO GOLD RUNS AMAZONE CULTIVATION GEAR
BECAUSE IT IS WELL-BUILT WITH THICK WELDS AND STRONG BOX SECTIONS.
season and did a 50-minute video on Green to Gold.
“It broke my phone. So many young fellows were wanting to give us a hand for the season that I had to buy a new phone.”
So no, finding staff is not an issue. Accommodation for them
has become an issue, however. Up until now it has been tidily solved with self-contained units at the yard. They are clean, warm and tidy, and solve the issue of tired people driving home after a long stint at work.
“Managing fatigue is a big
THE CONTRACTING SEASON IN THE CENTRAL OTAGO HIGH COUNTRY BEGINS WITH CULTIVATION AND RESEEDING IN SPRING.
issue. Safety first. I don’t want to ring someone’s next of kin because of my negligence on their fatigue.”
HARVESTING
By the end of October, silage starts and the last lot of staff
arrive from overseas. They get inducted and everyone gets training for their role.
Three sets of Claas 9200 Disco triple mowers do the mowing. Tom likes Claas mowers because they work in rocky ground and the Discos are robust. If a blade
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Multispread machines are available with advanced features such as the D3 spinner system for accurate spread patterns up to 36m and the i4M Variable Rate controller with loadcell weighing system and GPS auto shut-off.
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THE 6M AMAZONE CIRRUS DRILLS HAVE CATROS DISCS ON THE FRONT, WHICH MEANS THEY CAN ELIMINATE ONE PASS.
does break, it is so easy to change knives and springs.
“We can’t have downtime. If the mowers stop, it filters down the line and the chopper or balers catch up and the product isn’t wilted properly.”
When Green to Gold began, it coincided with the launch of the Tarras water scheme.
“Old barren ground became lush, profitable grain-growing
ground. And with that came lots of work for Ferg.”
Tarras ground is so productive because of the pivot irrigators. But that means ruts. Tom likes their two four-rotor Krone rakes because the dolly wheels handle the pivot ruts better than other brands.
Baling is done with two McHale Fusion 3 Plus combination baler/ wrappers. Green to Gold likes the efficiency of two jobs at once, and wrapping immediately maintains quality, especially with a northerly wind in summer.
The balers deal with straw and hay as well as silage. “McHale have proven themselves over
the years. They have good backup service, but they don’t really break down.”
Tom says the number of bales Green to Gold makes each season is dropping because of price.
“It is almost unsustainable because the price has increased so much. The extra wrap for balage takes longer to remove for feeding out and then has to be disposed of, all requiring more time and effort.
“In whole crop balage, rats can eat it out and it ends up empty plastic. Bulk silage is less likely to be destroyed by vermin.”
Green to Gold’s forage harvesters are a 960 and a 950 Claas Jaguar. They compact their silage pits with two JCB 435S wheeled loaders. These weigh 16 tonnes, and Tom says they are the right tool for compacting and spreading the crop. They may also do a little stacking but predominantly their job is spending 600 to 700 hours a season on a stack.
The two combine harvesters are Claas Lexion 760s from 2017, and last season they had so much work that they leased a third harvester from the Harvest Centre in Canterbury.
Harvesting is still mostly cereals, but more variety is coming into the area. This includes three varieties of peas and more fine seeds, such as mustard, bok choi and carrot.
For peas they use a MacDon FD130 FlexDraper header front. “Peas grow close to the ground. It combs the ground and hoovers up everything. It’s expensive but the right tool for the job.”
Last season they also harvested ryegrass seed. They mowed it, left it to dry and then used a draper front to pick it up.
What happens to the straw is up to the client. Some want it chopped and left on the ground to be cultivated in and put potassium back into the ground. Others want it bailed.
Over winter Fin is busy carting straw, balage and grain and Tom is employing staff. “Most of the time I am up at 1:00 a.m. trying to get in touch with referees and talk to the boys in their daytime.”
TRACTORS
Providing the muscle for all this work are 19 tractors. Seventeen of them are John Deere. Ferg is a Deere purist, but Tom has been known to waver and is responsible for two Massey Fergusons.
“There is a joke that I am not allowed to be left at the yard by myself in case the Massey Ferguson salesman comes around.”
The MF arrived because the salesman told Tom they deliver cheap horsepower. Ferg had such a loyal relationship with John Deere that he approached them and asked them to match the offer.
“At the time they couldn’t and there was a big difference in price, so it was a no-brainer moving forward with times getting tougher.
THE MACDONALD FAMILY RUNS THEIR FULL-SERVICE CONTRACTING BUSINESS GREEN TO GOLD FROM THEIR BASE IN WANAKA.
TOM MACDONALD SAYS EACH SEASON GREEN TO GOLD DOES MORE BULK SILAGE AS THE COST OF BALAGE CONTINUES TO RISE.
ONE OF GREEN TO GOLD’S FOUR-ROTOR KRONE RAKES AND CLAAS JAGUARS ON A BULK SILAGE JOB.
“The two Massey Ferguson 8732s were also already in the country. It was a risk with a new brand, but at the end of the day, everything breaks down: it comes down to back-up service.”
That excellent back-up service is one reason for the devotion to John Deere.
“Our local branch in Cromwell has dedicated a mechanic to us every season. We have a mechanic on the way within an hour of a break-down. We are really lucky,” Tom says.
The latest John Deeres are from 2020 and 2021. Both are 8R 340s with IVT transmissions. Tom likes the fully variable transmissions for the fuel economy and power to the ground.
He says every new model has improvements. “They keep on getting more and more technology. They are more user-friendly and have better ergonomics in the cab.
“They realise that the operator is in there for more than five minutes. The coolest feature is how far the seat swivels so you are not twisting your neck as much.”
The only downside is the price has doubled over the last four years, but farmers are not earning double. This leads to the dilemma of how much can prices increase and lots of other questions.
How long do you hold onto a tractor? But then what does that do to the trade-in price? Or
how many hours in a day can you drive a tractor? Is it better to lease?
The oldest tractor is a John Deere 4240 that Ferg bought in 1981 as his first new tractor. It is still working, though it is parked up and its PTO is used to load grain into bags.
“Fin takes our grain down south, but they have limited storage. We take the grain off once it is under 14 percent moisture and, if there isn’t space, then it goes into grain bags.”
Green to Gold’s clients are dairy
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farmers, winter dairy support farms and arable farmers. The Macdonalds also lease 600 ha to grow crops.
Ferg has always contracted thinking of how he would treat the land if it were his. “Our clients trust us to run it like it’s our own.”
Green to Gold is a thriving business employing lots of people, especially the overseas staff who then spend most of their income being tourists in New Zealand. Green to Gold ensures local farmers can keep feeding the world.
Better weed detection, control for increased herbicide savings up to 90%
Work night or day, in dust, dense stubbles, over fencelines
Section control, helping to reduce residual concerns
Weed mapping, assisting with resistance plans
Quick-attach brackets for easy install
what’s new in... FERTILISER TECHNOLOGY AND SPREADERS
WITH TODAY’S HIGH FERTILISER COSTS AND GROWING PUBLIC CONCERN PUSHING US TO PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT, CONTRACTORS AND FARMERS NEED SPREADERS THAT ARE SOPHISTICATED, ACCURATE AND DURABLE. IN THIS FEATURE LEADING MANUFACTURERS TELL US ABOUT THEIR LATEST PRODUCTS.
ZA-TS 5000 MOUNTED SPREADER
More efficient than ever Amazone has extended its mounted spreader product range with the ZA-TS 5000.
The ZA-TS product range has stood for maximum performance with the highest precision since its introduction. Precise spread patterns up to 54 m with application rates of 650 kg/min are the key to this. While capacities of up to 4,200 l were previously possible, the new hopper capacity of up to 5,000 l further increases the maximum area output.
Increased efficiency
The increase in capacity of 800 l reduces the number of filling operations, thereby simplifying the logistics.
The large hopper capacity of the mounted spreader can be used to the full, especially when using lightweight spreading materials such as urea.
The number of journeys between the field and yard can be reduced and the increasingly shorter time windows for the spreading are optimally utilised.
Efficient, needs-based fertilisation is therefore guaranteed. Use the full potential
The ZA-TS 5000 comes with the Ultra frame and the Profis weighing system as standard.
The intelligent integration of the Profis weighing system in the ISOBUS software enables the user to monitor fill levels and residual volumes, define target weights and fill precisely at any time.
The maximum payload of 4,500 kg is utilised in full without running the risk of overloading the spreader.
AMAZONE
ZG-TX – TRAILED COMBI SPREADER - WITHOUT COMPROMISE
Flexible – Precise – High-performance
Amazone sets new standards in the combi spreader sector with the new trailed ZG-TX. Both granular mineral fertilisers and earthmoist limes can be applied precisely through the one machine by means of a simple conversion between the TS spreading system and the newly developed spreading unit for lime. The ZG-TX therefore combines the advantages of the TS spreading system, with its disc-integrated AutoTS for optimum border spreading results, with maximum efficiency in spreading lime. With the simple Special frame and the stronger Super frame, AMAZONE offers the right machine for any application.
The precision spreader in its class - accurate fertilisation in focus
The term combi spreader is used to describe machines which meter either mineral fertilisers or lime to two spreading discs via a floor belt. However, the demand for optimum precision is also increasing in the customer sector for combi spreaders. Against this background, AMAZONE decided to break new ground in the field of fertiliser application and com-
bine it with the precision of the TS spreading system. The result is new in many respects. Instead of a simple chute via which the fertiliser is guided onto the disc, a defined delivery point adjustment is integrated into the ZG-TX. This in turn enables precision-optimised features such as HeadlandControl and Section Control to be achievable. As a result, the spreading unit, familiar from the TS spreaders, provides precise spread patterns up to a working width of 54 m. When combined with the optional FlowControl torque measuring system, an exact spread rate regulation is guaranteed right from the first second. In this respect, the fertiliser is precisely metered using the intelligent interaction betwen the electric double shutter and floor belt speed. This is also possible independently of which side when using application maps.
Perfect border spreading
The ZG-TX also sets new standards in border spreading. The AutoTS disc-integrated border spreading system is fitted during assembly to the right-hand side of the machines as part of the TS spreading system. This guarantees an optimum border spreading result right up to the edge of the field, even at large working widths. Previously a feature only
found on the ZA-TS and ZG-TS precision spreaders, the system is now also used on the ZG-TX. As a result, up to 17 % additional yield is possible in comparison to conventional border spreading systems. The use of such a border spreading system in a combi spreader is unique.
Double benefit – lime and fertiliser distributed to perfection
The special feature in the ZG-TX is the simple conversion between lime and granular mineral fertilisers. Only a few individual components need to be exchanged for this purpose. These include the spreading discs, the splash guard and the delivery system. Thanks to the clever software, the terminal recognises that the spreader has been converted. The combi spreader is converted completely in around 25 minutes enabling either lime or fertiliser then to be spread.
Highly efficient lime spreader with innovative features – no compromises during arduous field work
In particular, the robust design of the ZG-TX Super means the maximum load on a single axle. This is provided by the axle load of 15 t combined with a drawbar load of 4 t. The steep hopper walls ensure that even earthmoist limes flow smoothly, and an optional chain rake then guarantees the even flow of material to the spreading unit.
This newly-developed spreading unit ensures maximum work rates. It distributes the lime effectively at working widths of up to 16 m.
Lime spreading from a new perspective
In addition to its performance when undertaking arduous lime spreading, precision was also at
the focus of the developments. For example, an optional rate reduction shutter also enables, at the same time, the even application of small quantities of lime of less than 1 t/ha. Furthermore, from the off, the spread pattern can also be optimised for lime by means of a simple delivery point correction.
Again as a new development for combi spreaders, Amazone now also offers a border spread deflector for lime application as an option. This means that lime can also be precisely applied along field boundaries and ditches.
The right machine for any application
The various levels of equipment available for the ZG-TX trailed combi spreader means that the machine can be specifically tailored to each respective application on large-scale farms, contractors or in machine hire businesses. The Special frame variant comes with a hopper capacity of 6,800 l and 9,000 l with a maximum permissible machine weight of 17 t. The Super frame variant has a capacity up to 11,200 l and a weight of 21 t.
Whereas the ZG-TX Super is equipped with a rigid bottom hitch drawbar as standard, the ZG-TX Special can also be supplied either with a top or lower mounted drawbar.
AS profile tyres up to 2.05 m diameter or 750 mm wide implement wheels evenly distribute the weight on the ground. The optional axle steering with a steering angle up to 20 degrees completes the product line-up. The dual-circuit pneumatic braking system and the LED lights installed as standard ensure safe, high-speed road transport of up to 40 km/h. Video:
TUBELINE NITRO SERIES
Boost your soil, boost your yield
Many Australian farmers struggle with efficiently spreading manure over large areas without compromising on the quality or consistency of spread.
The Nitro manure spreader by Tubeline addresses this issue with its commercial-grade features including slip slide poly board floors, a guillotine endgate for controlled spreading, and a reversible apron chain, ensuring even distribution of various manure consistencies and enhancing soil fertility.
The Nitro spreader series stands as a testament to robust engineering and is specifically designed to meet the high demands of commercial use. Beginning with models 450, 600, and 750, and expanding to include the 950 model, these spreaders are built with features that ensure efficiency, durability, and ease of use in commercial applications.
Design and standard features:
Slip Slide poly board floors and walls
These components ensure durability and ease of manure flow, reducing the likelihood of material sticking and buildup. This feature not only extends the life of the spreader but also improves the efficiency of manure spreading operations.
Guillotine endgate
This innovative endgate provides precise control over the amount of material being spread. By adjusting the opening, operators can meter the flow to the beaters, ensuring consistent spreading, whether dealing with dry or semi-solid manures.
Reversible apron chain
Offering enhanced reliability and a longer service life, the reversible apron chain ensures even and controlled delivery of material from the spreader to the field. This feature is essential for achieving uniform spread patterns and optimal soil coverage.
The floor belt rises by 5 degrees which enables a transfer from the rear to the front. This guarantees optimum load distribution during spreading. Maximum drawbar load and reduced axle loads enable safe driving in the field.
Comfortable operation with Easy and ISOBUS
The right control system is available for every application with the two operating concepts Easy and Tronic. The new intuitive ISOBUS control provides all the functions of the ISOBUS
CV (constant velocity) shaft
Equipped with a CV shaft, the Nitro allows for a tighter turning radius, significantly reducing driveline chatter during tight turns and enhancing the overall longevity of the driveline components.
Apron chain limited lifetime warranty
Tubeline stands behind the durability and reliability of their apron chain with a limited lifetime warranty, providing peace of mind and reducing the long-term cost of ownership for farmers.
Additional standard features for enhanced usability
The Nitro comes equipped with numerous standard features such as a hydraulic-driven apron chain, standard rubber seal kit for additional protection against leakage, robust and dynamically balanced beaters, and central grease banks for easier maintenance. These features combine to provide a high-performance, low-maintenance solution for commercial manure spreading needs.
Quick drop beaters
Designed for efficient spreading and easy maintenance, the quick drop beaters allow for rapid disassembly and cleaning. This feature ensures that the spreader maintains optimal performance and can handle various manure consistencies effectively.
At FarmTech Machinery, we understand that efficient and effective manure management is crucial for commercial farming success. Proper spreading equipment is essential for enhancing soil fertility and maintaining the cleanliness and health of your farm.
The challenge lies in finding a manure spreader that can handle diverse farm waste products, from pen packs to semi-solids, with reliability and precision. We believe in providing durable, commercial-grade equipment that can meet the demands of modern agriculture.
Contact FarmTech Machinery today to upgrade to the Nitro series manure spreader and take the first step towards more efficient and productive manure management.
world in the ZG-TX Tronic. In addition to Section Control, part-area, site-specific application and job management, the control system can be integrated in the operating system of the tractor with AUX-N. With up to three cameras, you have the surroundings and the machine in view at all times. The optional lighting kit is also integrated in the software in the ZG-TX. Flashing indicates the hopper fill level and permits optimum loading using the intelligent interaction with the digital fill level indicator. There is nothing left to be desired here.
Operation with the machine -specific EasySet 2 in-cab terminal, which is also used in the ZA-X, ZA-M and ZA-V mounted spreaders – guarantees ultraeasy operation with any tractor. The focus here is on the forward speed related rate regulation. A wide variety of tractors can therefore be used with ease with a minimum of demand on the tractor.
Uniform crops on the headland
In the ISOBUS-control models, HeadlandControl is responsible for perfect distribution on the
headland. In combination with the electric delivery point adjustment, 16 part-width sections are switched following the parabolic shape of the spread fan. Furthermore, the headland is pushed further into the field, meaning that Section Control is also possible at the optimum switching points, even with a trailed spreader, without having to cross the headland tramline. The interaction between the components of the TS spreading system makes the ZG-TX a genuine precision spreader in its class.
Precision Agronomics Australia set to launch the V3 Fertiliser spreader controller
Precision Agronomics Australia (PAA) will release the updated version 3 i4M fertiliser spreader controller to the Australian market in February 2025.
Originally released in 2017, the i4M fertiliser spreader controller has proved popular with Australian farmers, enabling a cost effective solution for variable rate spreading, machine autoshut off and coverage mapping, with the new Version 3 improvements further extending the capabilities of the system.
A major improvement is the integration of on-the-go calibration of fertiliser calibration factors by using dynamic feedback from the spreader loadcells. Electronic modules, located at each loadcell, take accurate high speed readings of the weight in the spreader and send this data via a high speed link to the main control unit.
If the calibration factor changes due to fertiliser properties, such as moisture content or
bulk density, the controller will detect the change from the loadcell readings and compensate accordingly. Instead of waiting until the end of the load to detect the calibration factor error, the controller will immediately make adjustments to ensure the correct application rate is applied.
The core of any i4M system is the mobile app that runs on Android-based tablets. The Version 3 fertiliser spreader controller is the first i4M Android app to feature the rebuilt work screen which includes more precise auto shut-off, coverage mapping and icon based step through menus.
Adjustments of the spreader control as it moves in and out of work areas is more complex than other implements such as seeders and sprayers. As such, the PAA engineers have built more flexibility into the Version 3 system to allow for changes when spreading both granulated and non-granulated fertilisers. As a result of the increased complexity, the map screen was built from scratch to enable high speed ren-
dering of coverage and prescription maps on the Android tablet. Coverage maps that are recorded in the Version 3 app can be
exported from the i4M app for use in third party precision ag software for as-applied analysis. For spreaders with conveyor
SOUTHERN SPREADERS
COMMERCIAL TRUCKMOUNTED SPREADERS BUILT BY AUSTRALIA’S SPREADER SPECIALISTS.
Southern Spreaders are your one stop shop for commercial truck spreaders.
Based in Ballarat, Victoria, Southern Spreaders offer a full end-to-end service where all spreaders bodies are 100% manufactured in-house and the truck rolls off the production line paddock-ready as a fully integrated unit.
Southern Spreaders will take the truck of your choice - both brand and capacity - and fit the body, GPS/autosteer, your choice of wheels and tyres, tow bars, load cells, section control, toolboxes, tyre inflation and
much more to build you the most complete and seamless commercial spreader available in Australia today.
Southern Spreaders can also supply the base cab-chassis through industry supply arrangements if need be, for a total one stop shop experience.
Southern Spreaders know that the needs of every customer are slightly different, and can attend to customer needs via in-house engineering and fabrication.
Variances due to geographic location, primary purpose, budget constraints or existing fleet can be accommodated. We know our customers work in nearly every facet of agriculture, and Southern Spreaders can supply a finished unit that’s tailored exactly to client needs.
belt systems, a belt slip sensor can be integrated with the i4M version 3 controller, to alert the operator if the conveyor belt is slipping under load, eliminating potential under application of fertiliser.
The i4M version 3 fertiliser spreader controller is the result of two years of development and field testing and is available on both new spreaders as well as a retro fit kit for farmers running either the version 1 or version 2 systems.
For more information, contact Precision Agronomics Australia on +61 8 9072 0542 or visit i4M. net.au.
Jarrod Keyte Southern Spreaders General Manager said, “We’ve got some great stories at Southern Spreaders where contractors have started with a single truck and now have fleets of spreaders, in one case 12 trucks all using Southern Spreaders’ equipment. Plus we offer complimentary equipment, including self-loading trailers to maximise the efficiency of spreader operations.
“We build our spreaders to last; the first spreaders we built 20 years ago are still working day in, day out. The main reason to renew is new technology and the life span of the truck itself. Plus we maintain parts supply for all spreaders so help is only a phone call away.”
Southern Spreaders operate on three core values:
- Build quality Reliability, simplicity, functionality and durability.
- Service Backing our product
ensuring our users have minimum downtime.
- Innovation Offering the latest innovations ensuring clients operate at maximum efficiency.
“We’ve built truck spreaders for over 20 years and were in the fertiliser spreading contracting industry for over 30 years, so Southern Spreaders get it. Our parts availability is second-tonone, guaranteed to ship same day if ordered by 4pm. We understand that getting your machine going ASAP is the number one priority. But the heart of Southern Spreaders is ensuring we offer our clients the best engineering, design and innovation because if you sit still you will be left behind.”
Southern Spreaders can be found at www.southernspreaders.com.au and we welcome inquiry from those interested in new spreaders or additions to existing fleets.
WARINGA
AGRI-SPREAD AS2000: TAKE YOUR SPREADING PROGRAM TO THE NEXT LEVEL
The Agri-Spread AS2000 Series is an industry leading, advanced precision spreader that meets the requirements of capacity, simplicity, and durability to take your spreading program to the next level.
Spreading a wide range of materials including fertiliser, lime and gypsum, with exclusive design features and technology for precise product application, the AS2000 is exceptionally accurate whilst being extremely durable and simple to operate. The AS2000 is accredited to spread urea to 41m and lime to 15m with interchangeable lime and fertiliser discs and is available in single or tandem axle in capacities up to 22m3
The AS2000 is equipped with Agri-Spread’s exclusive Variable Rate Technology (VRT) as standard which provides on-the-goweighing through the ISOBUS terminal for accurately spreading variable bulk density products, utilising load sense hydraulics, dynamic auto-calibration, and a pre-planned map to optimise product usage across paddocks with variability in soil and crop nutrition.
The ISOBUS interface implements this precision map to automatically control the application rate with GPS positioning.
The AS2000 has an adjustable rear spinner deck system to maintain even product spread. The spreading deck has forward and backward positioning, with
two vane adjustable spinners, short and long, for controlling the placement of product.
Spinner speeds are set from the cab based on the product being applied and the spread width required, allowing operators to set the spread bout width with the deck and pattern distribution with the vanes.
Based on the area to be spread, the Agri-Spread VT Controller continually fine tunes the flow rate of the product onto the discs to ensure the highest level of accuracy. Data is also collected to provide a detailed record of the applied product; how much was applied and where.
AS2000 spreaders can also be factory optioned with Sectional Control which uses GPS map data to feed material onto independently controlled hydraulic spinners. This allows the spreading rate of the machine to be changed to minimise product overlap, with load cells built into the mechanical design and includes ISOBUS software interface for in-cab diagnostics and
monitoring of the conveyor and spinners.
Additional options on the AS2000 spreader include a 3m wheel axle system option, 304 full stainless-steel bin, and hydraulic folding curtains to spread low density products in difficult conditions without compromising spread width or distribution accuracy. Border Control is also available as an option to independently control spinner speeds for boundary spreading to reduce wastage and overthrow.
Waringa Distribution is the proud distributor of AgriSpread’s precision spreading equipment across Australia and New Zealand and plays a key role in the continual testing and development of the AS2000 in unique Australian conditions, to ensure customer expectations are exceeded. The AS2000 is available through Waringa’s extensive national dealer network of over 60 dealers. Visit waringa.com.au to locate your nearest dealer and for product information.
AGRI-SPREAD AS2220T SPREADER, THE LARGEST SPREADER IN THE AS2000 RANGE.
AGRI-SPREAD AS2120 SINGLE AXLE SPREADER.
86 Roberts Crt, Drouin Vic 3818
LIQUID SYSTEMS
SIMPLICITY MEETS EFFICIENCY: LIQUID FERTILISER SYSTEM
THE PERFECT FIT
Switching to liquid fertilisers was a logical step for New South Wales mixed farmer Tom Johnstone when anhydrous ammonia supplies dried up, and it’s paid off with improved efficiencies and cost savings.
The Johnstone family had been using anhydrous ammonia for around 40 years and faced overhauling their sowing equipment when the Brisbane manufacturing plant closed. Tom says moving to a liquid injection system made sense as their seeding equipment was essentially already set up for liquids.
“Our philosophy was to make the change easy; we didn't want to make things harder. If we had shifted to using urea, we would have needed to buy a second grouper and change the air cart - it would have been more expensive,” Tom said.
Tom farms with father, Peter, and his brother, Ben, near Cowra, NSW, where they grow a mix of cereals, canola, faba beans, and a combination of dryland and irrigated pasture and lucerne
on 1600 hectares. They also run sheep and cattle, as well as a silage production enterprise.
Their shift to liquid injection started at the end of 2022 with the purchase of a Liquids Systems LQS120 pump module which they fitted to the side of their Gyral air cart. They also replaced their existing gas tank with a 4,800 L liquid tank which sits on the back of the air cart. A 10.6 m Gyral Sure Strike planter, set up on 250 mm spacings, and a 9420 John Deere tractor complete the Johnstone’s sowing gear.
After deciding to switch, Tom found the installation fairly straightforward. “We already had the stainless tubes down the back of the primary tines and it was easy to take the gas tank off and put the liquid tank on.”
They also added a sectional control Stacker Kit which easily integrated into the rate controller – in a plug-and-play scenario – and runs through the main John Deere screen. Tom says it has not only performed well but has also delivered savings.
“It automatically cuts off when we get to a narrow headland so we can reduce nitrogen overlap
Who: Tom Johnstone
Location: Cowra, New South Wales
and stop the crop from going down,” he said.
The Johnstone’s decision to invest in Liquid Systems’ equipment was primarily based on performance and customer service. After initially considering building a liquid injection system, the family decided against it after hearing of problems friends had experienced when trying to adapt squeeze pumps and other components to set up their own systems.
“I had heard positive things about Liquid Systems. It wasn’t the cheapest option, but they offered a comprehensive guide for installation and had all the components we needed, along with good backup and support, which are important when you start a new system,” Tom explained.
Now into their second cropping season and with UAN replacing Big N, the family are pleased with their decision.
“We like having the nitrogen up front – we get better efficiency than using urea and it's easy to apply at sowing. With urea, you're waiting for the weather front to come and then you fly out in front of it and you might get the rain you need and or might not.”
In their first season, the Johnstones used a blanket rate of 100 L/ha of UAN along with 90 kg/ha
Inputs: 125 L/ha UAN, 90 kg /ha MAP, 5L/ha of Advance Promote and 3L /ha of Advance Energize. Impact Fungicide. Easy Rhis
Property: 1600 ha mixed farming operation including 1200 ha mixed crops and 300 ha pasture, silage production, 200 cows and 1000 Aussie White sheep
Equipment: Liquid Systems (SA) LQ120 Module, and 3 Manifold Section Control Stacker Kit with 42 LQS-ATST Outlets
- Upfront nitrogen application and reduced nitrogen overlap
- Cost savings with on-farm storage and supply convenience
- Easier inoculation and greater fungicide flexibility.
of MAP but increased this to 125 L/ha in 2024 - a similar rate of N they previously applied with the gas.
“We were unsure of which rates to use and were guided by what the South Australians use. However, their rates are typically lower due to their soils. We have applied up to 150 L/ha and with no seed burn, partly due to having good separation with our primary tine.”
Tom likes the convenience and safety of using UAN and believes it is more efficient than Big N as it's very stable and goes into the furrow well. As a result, the crops seem to germinate well and have shown good early growth.
Mixing fungicides such as Impact with Easy N is now part of their liquid application and provides more flexibility to tailor application rates compared to treating granular fertiliser.
“With the Easy N, we're putting Impact fungicide down. We found mixing them together is working really well. We can easily leave the fungicide out when we sow a crop that doesn't need it, like faba beans, or if we are using a susceptible variety, we can increase the rate, so it's great to get the flexibility,” Tom said.
A move to using freeze-dried inoculants such as Easy Rhiz has also delivered time-saving benefits and overcome problems of using peat-based products, such as flow issues and blockages.
“Using our liquid setup for inoculating is really easy; we use the same tank, the same pump, and even the same line meters. We simply turn taps off and on, so that the inoculant is sprayed onto the seed as it goes down the seeding tine,” explains Tom. “The freeze-dried powder is easy to use, you just add a bit of water
and shake it up and stick them in the tank. The plants look great and there’s plenty of nodulation.”
They are also trialling bioactive trace element blends from Switch AG that include micronutrients such as zinc and copper. They apply 5L/ha of Advance Promote and 3L /ha of Advance Energize and mix these with the UAN.
But, at this stage, they are focused on keeping their system simple and not overcomplicating things with too many different products.
When setting up, the Johnstones purchased four 30,000 L storage tanks for UAN, which
Toms says gives them around three weeks supply at sowing time.
“When we started it was the middle of COVID, so supply was an issue and having the product on hand was vital. Price-wise they were also cost-effective when compared to urea silos.”
This storage capacity allows them to purchase nitrogen when the price is good.
“It gives us flexibility to pick our purchase times so we are not such price takers. We can also get UAN whenever we want and we're not waiting for anhydrous trailers to be delivered or topped up,” Tom explains.
At sowing time, a trailer with a
UAN tank on the back is towed behind a twin-steer truck with the grouper carrying the seed and MAP. To make handling liquids quick and easy, 3-inch suction hoses and fill pumps have been installed on everything so fertiliser tanks can be easily filled or emptied in three or four minutes.
“We also carry clean water tanks to flush out the lines every time we fill. It's easy to switch over and pump the 3-inch line full of water and then drain the pipe back out. It means you don't have to lift a full hose or dump urea on the ground.”
Tom says the main advantages to adopting a liquid injection sys-
tem was not having to overhaul their cropping system, and gaining more control over access to fertiliser.
“We liked that we could keep using our narrow 13 mm knifepoints and we didn't need to change the configuration of the seeding bar to accommodate rear air tubes. It's just a tidy system and doesn't create a lot of clutter on your bar.”
Tom wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Liquid Systems’ equipment to other farmers.
“It's a good system that’s straightforward to install with everything you need, and the Liquid Systems’ team are there to help you out,” Tom said.
BRINGING REAL WORLD PRECISION TO LIME AND GYPSUM SPREADING
Unlocking full yield potential is leading grain producers to give greater focus to lime application for their crops.
Hansa Australian-made spreaders are designed to spread all materials accurately and simplify lime application for farmers. Traditionally spreaders have either been specifically for urea/ prill fertiliser or lime gypsum
type products. The Hansa range of spreaders are designed to spread all materials accurately and efficiently.
“We’ve been making commercial spreaders for contractors for nearly 30 years,” says Jarrod Keyte, Hansa Managing Director. “Over the course of any given day a contractor can spread everything from lime to urea to seed. Hansa spreaders are designed to be able to handle all materials well, to be able to swap materials quickly and eas-
ily; in most cases in under two minutes, and we build them to last with the best quality components and stainless steel bins.
“One of the biggest points of difference with Hansa is the floor chain in both our trailing and 3PL spreaders rather than a belt, giving positive delivery of all products to the spinners no matter if it’s hilly, damp, or material type,” he adds. “Accuracy starts with the material getting to the spinners correctly. It’s a common myth chain conveyors increase maintenance, if we think about the chain conveyor system vs. belts.”
Chains have a fully enclosed floor, while belts have skirting rubbers to seal the bin.
A new world of tough
Chains are positive gear driven, but belts have a friction drive system that can slip and walk.
Chains have a nylon floor with a conveyor running on it, belts have 15-40 intermediate rollers carrying the load.
Chains can be fixed or a new section added in a matter of minutes whereas belts tear and a two-day labour exercise is required to replace it.
“The biggest advantage of the chain conveyor is the lack of maintenance required.”
Farmers addressing soil acidity or considering lime application should be looking at Hansa spreaders. Hansa are engineered to provide an easy, efficient, and
accurate solution for spreading lime, helping to improve soil quality and boost crop productivity.
“Spreader manufacturers, us included, have always focussed on urea spreading and lime has been the poor cousin in spreader development, “ Mr Keyte says. “As long as we met the 25% CoV (The Australian and international
standard for spreading lime) we were satisfied.”
Recently Hansa have bought renewed focus to the 25% CoV. Is it good enough for today’s farmer? With more intensive farming and Soil Ph becoming more and more important we believe that spreaders should be capable of a CoV of 10-15% for lime and gypsum.”
10% COV - NOTICE TO ALMOST LINEAR EVENNESS ACROSS THE FULL WIDTH OF THE SPREAD.
------ A PERFECT COV - NIL VARIATION ACROSS THE FULL SPREAD WIDTH. NOT ACHIEVABLE IN REAL WORLD CONDITIONS.
15% COV - LESS EVENNESS ACROSS THE WIDTH.
25% COV - CURRENT INDUSTRY STANDARD. HANSA THINK THIS IS NOT ACCEPTABLE IN TODAY’S AGE OF PRECISION FARMING AND FARMERS SEEKING EVERY EFFICIENCY THAT CAN BE ACHIEVED.
The above images illustrate what 10%, 15% and 25% can look like on your paddock. 25% shows greater variable rate across your swath than most variable rate maps used for spreading lime. 25% CoV shows coverage of 3.8t/ha the highest and down to 1.8t/ha the lowest, over double the difference. 15% CoV shows coverage of 3.1t/ha
down to 1.8t/ha and 10% shows coverage of 2.7t/ha down to 2t/ ha. While all these tests average around the desired rate of 2.5t/ ha you can clearly see the variation across the width of spread. Really understanding what the CoV means and how it can affect you is something we put a lot of emphasis on at Hansa.
Our belief is that a very trian-
gular singular pass pattern is required. To us this means that if the spread of lime varies we can always bring our width in to achieve a lower CoV, where as with a squarer pattern, as achieved by many current day spreaders, bringing the spread width in can actually make the CoV higher.
Both CoV graphs show that at
THE PREFERRED TRIANGULAR PASS PATTERN ACHIEVED BY HANSA SPREADERS ALLOWING BETTER ADAPTION TO ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS AND STATE OF MATERIAL.
THE LESS PREFERRED SQUARE PASS PATTERN ACHIEVED BY OTHER SPREADERS. MAKING ALLOWANCE FOR ENVIROMENTAL OR STATE OF MATERIAL CAN ACTUALLY RESULT IN A HIGHER OR LESS DESIRABLE COV.
17m bout width the variance is at 10%. The triangular pattern CoV reduces as the bout width is narrowed. At 12m the CoV is down to 7%, but with the square pattern at 12m bout width, the CoV is up to 25%.
All images are for education purposes only. For real world Hansa tests, get in touch with hansaequipment.com.au.
what’s new in... GRAIN HARVESTING EQUIPMENT
THE GRAIN HARVEST IS A VITAL PART OF THE AUSTRALIAN AGRICULTURAL INDUSTRY. IN THIS FEATURE WE LOOK AT LEADING COMBINE HARVESTERS, FRONTS, CHASER BINS AND OTHER TECHNOLOGY AVAILABLE TO AUSTRALIAN CONTRACTORS AND FARMERS.
FENDT IDEAL COMBINE HARVESTER: EFFICIENCY AND TECHNOLOGY IN MODERN FARMING
The Fendt Ideal redefines agricultural performance with its cutting-edge technology and innovative features. Equipped with AGCO Power and MAN engines, these combines deliver exceptional fuel efficiency without compromising on power or capacity. The Ideal harvest system allows farmers to automate crucial machine settings, maximising productivity while ensuring the highest quality of crop harvested.
Philipp Ashton, Fendt Product Marketing Manager, noted during recent field days that Ideal customers consistently praise the advanced technology in these machines. “They are packed with innovative features that deliver outstanding results.”
One standout benefit highlighted by farmers and contractors is the Ideal offers both strength
and capability while maintaining fuel efficiency. The longevity of the machine is another significant feature mentioned by them.
The Ideal harvest system sets new benchmarks in automation, allowing operators to select from three key harvesting strategies: minimizing cracked grain, reduc-
ing grain loss, or optimizing grain samples. This intuitive system continuously adjusts rotor and fan speed, sieve openings, and forward speed based on realtime data, enabling farmers to adapt effortlessly to varying conditions. This technology not only enhances the operator’s experience but also ensures that
AGCO
the grain quality remains topnotch. The acoustic MAD sensors provide the data needed for the Ideal to automatically adjust to pre-selected harvest strategies, making it easier for farmers to achieve the best threshing results.
Additionally, the Fendt Ideal features the unique Ideal balance™ system, designed to maximize crop flow and minimize losses. The double grain pan design ensures that a clean
crop enters the grain tank while efficiently distributing the crop throughout the machine, even on steep gradients.
“At Fendt, we provide farmer-focused solutions tailored to their success, prioritizing performance, efficiency, and profitability in the field,” said Philipp.
For more information about the Fendt Ideal and how it can enhance your farming operations, visit www.fendt.com/ au.
WARINGA
MOST FLEXIBLE HEADER FRONT MAXIMISES CROP HARVEST
It’s more important than ever to capture every blade of crop into headers and reduce harvesting losses, especially when reaping higher value crops, and growers now have an opportunity to take this to a new level with latest header front designs.
A three-section header front that adjusts itself to perfectly follow the ground, with a cutterbar that independently adjusts itself and a fully integrated air system to guide crop onto its belt, not long ago would have been considered a little futuristic, but it’s now a reality.
German manufacturer Geringhoff has offered its corn header fronts on the eastern seaboard for years, but after working closely with Australian distributor, Waringa Distribution, it now has a range of fronts suitable for all crops, and for the local conditions.
Geringhoff International Sales Manager Patrick Steidle was recently in Australia to update the range and is looking forward to its performance in the upcoming harvest.
“Following several years working with Waringa Distribution, we have significantly improved the robustness of our fronts to suit Australia’s tough conditions, particularly in relation to the reels, the cutterbar and with the air system,” Patrick said.
Waringa Distribution General Manager Sam Abbott said the
company was directly involved with the Geringhoff research and development team on various alterations to better customise the fronts for local conditions and improve their durability.
Gregor Garre with Geringhoff has also joined Waringa Distribution as its Research and Development Manager, adding further local support to the brand, which comes with full parts back-up.
In width sizes from 9.15 m up to 13.7m, the Geringhoff header front range features three models, incorporating a rigid frame with a flexible cutterbar (Flex) or a three-sectioned frame with either a rigid cutterbar (TruFlex) or flexible cutterbar (TruFlex Razor), the latter of which is exclusively available from Geringhoff and is the most flexible header front available.
“The wings of the three-sectioned frame act independently, allowing it to adjust from one end to the other by up to 760 mm. The flexible cutterbar can add another 150mm for total adjustment nearing 1 m,” Patrick said.
“The flexible cutterbar is ideal for harvesting crops like chickpeas, when you want to cut close to the ground.
“The reel also remains close to the cutterbar as it flexes, which is especially beneficial for when crops are lodged.”
Comparisons with other fronts in chickpeas and lentils have shown clear differences, with reduced pod loss where the Geringhoff front was used.
Sam said the fully integrated air system was another exclusive with Geringhoff and, in contrast to other air systems, it operated directly behind the knife to ensure maximum reduction in harvest losses.
He said the frames also featured the widest centre section with floating, mechanical drive
intake auger to feed in high yielding and bulky crops like canola, and it accommodated most of the weight including the oil tank, which assisted the outstanding wing flexibility and fast response times.
The centre knife drive has allowed for slim side panels compared with some other header fronts, resulting in reduced crop disturbance that, again, is especially important in high value crops like chickpeas.
Sam said, fortunately, the Geringhoff header fronts can be completely controlled and monitored, including the knife, reel and draper speeds, from the comfort of the cab.
The Geringhoff header fronts are available for the upcoming harvest and the Waringa Distribution team is looking forward to further demonstrations of the fronts with dealers and growers.
Interested growers can contact Waringa Distribution on (08) 6154 5999.
GREGOR GARRE AND SAM ABBOTT (RIGHT), WARINGA DISTRIBUTION, UPDATE THE GERINGHOFF HEADER FRONT RANGE WITH THE GERMAN MANUFACTURER’S INTERNATIONAL SALES MANAGER, PATRICK STEIDLE.
CASE IH
HARVEST COMMAND CONTINUES TO RAISE THE BAR IN COMBINE AUTOMATION
With another busy harvest season fast approaching, farmers know when the pressure’s on and time is tight, so there’s a big advantage in having machinery designed to ease some of that mental and physical load.
Case IH’s Harvest Command™ is one such tool, designed to enhance harvest efficiency and productivity, with a minimum of fuss and maximum performance.
This advanced technology helps refine the harvesting process by reducing the number of functions operators need to monitor in the cab.
Once the concave clearance and grain tank unload functions are set, Harvest Command takes care of the rest.
Already available on the current Case IH Axial-Flow 250 Series, Harvest Command monitors everything from ground speed and engine load all the way up to feed-rate control and
sieve settings, which are based on the feedback received from the loss sensors, a grain camera and sieve pressure sensors.
These sieve pressure sensors are unique to CNH brands, including Case IH’s Harvest Command product, and are vital for ensuring the optimum performance of the combine.
The sensors provide for the relay of data concerning the load on the sieve, which in turn allows the system to determine the difference between sieve overload and blow-out losses.
A grain camera monitors quality, including cracked and broken grains - as well as foreign material, allowing for the adjustment of settings as required.
In fact, the Harvest Command automation on the Axial-Flow 250 Series uses 16 sensors to control a total of seven combine functions.
“Harvest Command is designed to maintain the greatest efficiency for the operator in all conditions, improving grain quality and grain savings through sensing and optimising
THE
LATEST AXIAL-FLOW 250 SERIES FROM CASE IH FEATURES THE HARVEST COMMAND TECHNOLOGY THAT OFFERS A RAFT OF BENEFITS FOR CUSTOMERS.
machine settings,” said Marc Smith, Case IH Australia/New Zealand Product Portfolio Manager for Crop Harvesting.
The number of crops the technology is designed to operate in has been expanded in recent years beyond wheat, barley, canola, corn, soybeans and rice to now include sorghum.
Simplicity, productivity, grain quality and crop adaptability have been the hallmarks of the Case IH Axial-Flow Series for almost 50 years, and Marc said the addition of Harvest Com-
mand further enhanced the Axial-Flow’s legacy.
“Five years on from the launch of Harvest Command, this is still the most impressive combine automation product on the market,” Marc said.
“And the positive news for farmers is that we have stock of the Axial-Flow 250 Series combines ready to go for the 2024 harvest, so customers don’t need to wait to harness the efficiency and productivity benefits of features like Harvest Command.”
CLAAS HARVEST CENTRE
LEXION 8600
OPTIMISED FOR 2025
Lexion is the decisive factor for reliable seasonal performance year after year, and for 2025, Claas has introduced a new Lexion 8600. The latest model boasts a 15.6 L MAN D38 six-cylinder engine that produces a maximum output of 598 hp.
Claas Harvest Centre Product Manager – Claas Lexion, Steve Reeves, says, “The 8000 Series, being the Lexion wide body machine at 1.7m, has always been a very popular machine across Australia thanks to its wider threshing and cleaning width.
“The 8600 is the third widebody size we offer to our market – this complements the 8700,
and 8800, at 6460 hp and 700 hp. All use MAN-power units which are all Tier 3 for Australia, so there is no Ad-Blue. Internally, the threshing, separation, and cleaning systems are the same on these three machines.”
Released in 2019, the Lexion 8000/7000 features the enlarged APS Synflow Hybrid threshing system that delivers 10% more capacity than the previous 700 Series.
The 7700 and 7600 models retain the proven 12.5 L six-cylinder Perkins 2206 D engine that delivers 524 or 461 hp, respectively.
All engines are equipped with Dynamic Cooling and Dynamic Power.
“Dynamic Cooling is an on-de-
mand variable drive cooling system that reduces power requirement by 26 hp,” Steve says.
“The horizontal cooling system creates a ‘curtain’ that prevents dust from rising.
“Dynamic Power is an advanced engine management system that automatically adjusts power output to field conditions for maximum fuel efficiency.
“This system has been proven to deliver fuel savings of up to 10%.”
8000 Terra Trac models can be fitted with 18,000 or 15,000 litre grain bins, while 7000 Terra Trac models can be fitted with 13,500 or 12,500 litre grain bins.
Since 2023, the Lexion has been fitted with “420mm diameter unloading augers that can be customised with a pivoting spout that allows precise control of the grain stream by up to 60 cm, and they were all fitted with a larger cab, which is now standard,” Steve says.
“The spout can be operated via the CMotion multifunction control lever in the cabin.”
“The larger front and side windows, thinner A-pillars and a cantilevered mirror design deliver a premium view of the header.”
The new 360-degree wiper ensures a wide field of vision ahead in wet or dusty harvesting conditions.
Other creature comforts include a 30 L cooler, multimedia package, swivelling leather seat, footrests and 360-degree LED lighting.
Claas continues to add new features to its state-of-the-art operating and machine optimisation systems.
“The new integrated calibration of the loss monitors via the Cemos Dialog system has been very popular with customers in Australia,” Steve adds.
“With this system the operator can set the monitors accurately using measured grain from a loss tray. In this way, the Cemos
Dialog automatically adjusts the sensitivity of the sensors. This allows the operator to adjust the loss level to suit different conditions. This is very useful if there’s risk of rain and customers want to increase capacity to finish in time.”
In 2024, new software was added to the Cemos Dialog that allows a similar process to be followed to fine-tune the calibration of the grain quality camera. These results are used for continuous optimisation of the threshing unit settings.
“The option to include the Claas Cemis 1200 terminal provides full support for precision GPS tracking and networked documentation.
“The Cemis 1200 can be positioned on the right-hand side of the cab if the GPS Pilot automated steering system is fitted.
“This is a Claas screen and software, but we use a Trimble-based correction or RTK station depending on the customers’ requirements.”
With the full release of Claas Connect 3.0 planned for Australia in early 2025, the Cemis 1200 is the in-cab gateway for seamless job and task data management, from the machine into the cloud,
for detailed assessment in the farm office.
“We continue to offer the open steering and data CAN BUS link for other third party steering and mapping system, for customer needs.”
All Hybrid machines delivered to Australia are fitted with the segmented feed drum to further optimise the flow of material from the threshing unit to the
Roto Plus rotors under extreme operating conditions.
“The top-of-the-range Lexion 8900, with a 16.2 L MAN D42 six-cylinder engine, produces a whopping maximum output of 790 hp. It has been sold in Australia previously, but this machine is only available to us at the higher emission regulation, which use Ad-Blue.”
Steve indicated that since the
introduction of the 8800 in 2023, with a power level of 700 hp from the same 16,2L MAN Engine at Tier 3, enquiry levels for the Lexion 8900 are limited in Australia.
The Lexion 8800 has provided enough power for our conditions and our customers who run seed mills in the higher-yielding coastal areas are well matched with the power and capacity of the 700 hp 8800.
Two steps ahead
JUMBO Multi-purpose rotor loader wagon
No-compromise, high performance loader wagon with 36 mm (JUMBO 7000) or unique 25 mm (JUMBO 8000) short-chop knife bank and optional AUTOCUT knife sharpening system
Efficient and powerful, delivering the highest possible output with a high mass flow for tractors up to 500 hp
The best forage quality and outstanding reliability thanks to the 2.3-metre-wide pick-up, which is cam track controlled and hydraulic driven
For more information on our product line contact us at (03) 8353 2770, www.poettinger.com.au
SEED TERMINATOR
ADVANCED WEED CONTROL FOR CLAAS LEXION HARVESTERS
Farmers are facing increasing pressure to improve efficiency while battling weeds, so the right equipment can make all the difference. Enter the Seed Terminator Pro 1000, the latest innovation designed specifically for Claas Lexion combines. Developed with over a decade
of engineering expertise, the Pro 1000 takes harvest weed seed control (HWSC) to a new level, combining cutting-edge technology, advanced performance, and a design built for the largest combines on the market.
At the heart of the Pro 1000 is its redesigned chassis. The integration has been thoughtfully refined to work seamlessly with Claas Lexion combines.
The compact design increases ground and steer tyre clearance while the chassis is mounted above the OEM hitch, offering better access to the final drive components. This translates into smoother operations and easier maintenance, with external final drive belt tension adjustments and removable mill housings that expose the mills for quick replacements.
Key features like gearbox cooling via heat sinks—located on the forward, rear, and underside—ensure the unit runs optimally, even during long harvests. With improved chaff flow and an integrated tailboard featuring adjustable deflector vanes, the Pro 1000 reduces dust and optimises the distribution of material close to the chopper discharge, making it ideal for tough harvesting conditions.
A standout feature of the Pro
1000 is its advanced material flow system. The integrated shaker tray improves chaff flow into the mills, reducing the risk of bridging and ensuring consistent material throughput. This, paired with the serpentine final drive, brings a new level of reliability. The serpentine belt, featuring the latest EPDM technology, offers higher heat tolerance and 30% more load-carrying capacity than its predecessors. Designed with an aggressive tensioner assembly, it provides enhanced tension, maximising the belt’s ability to handle heavy loads across high-speed pulleys.
The Pro 1000’s side drive is also a game-changer, driven from the high-speed chopper drive with the same advanced EPDM belt technology. By replacing the OEM tensioner, the Pro 1000 increases tension on the chopper drive, reducing strain on the system and ensuring smooth operation whether the chopper is running at high or low speeds. The best bit? Installation time is halved, and the side drive is operating as close to factory as possible.
When it comes to harvest efficiency, precision matters. The latest F1 Generation Monitoring System on the Pro 1000 offers just that. With increased functionality, it includes SmartAlarm technology that provides
real-time monitoring of belt slip, gearbox temperature, and vibration sensors. This gives farmers peace of mind during peak harvesting times, allowing them to focus on getting the job done without worrying about the equipment.
The Seed Terminator Pro 1000 is equipped with AeroIMPACT 4 Mill Technology, the same high-capacity, high-kill mill used in the Pro X model for John Deere X9 combines.
Designed for Claas 10 combines and beyond, this mill operates at 3200RPM, processing material more efficiently and consistently, thanks to tighter rotor-stator tolerances. The mills are made from thicker, 10mm Bisalloy 500-grade steel, ensuring maximum durability and effectiveness in even the most demanding conditions.
SCALING UP FOR GLOBAL SUCCESS
As Seed Terminator continues to innovate, they’re also scaling up operations at their Lonsdale facility in South Australia. Thanks to a $3.1 million Federal Government grant, Seed Ter-
the harvesting process, they’re tackling the toughest weeds of the year and stopping the spread with the combine harvester. Year on year, this reduces the seedbank to ensure chemistry has less customers, making them last longer and saving the back pocket in the long run.
As they move into 2025, with expanded operations in Canada and Europe, Seed Terminator is committed to empowering farmers to feed the world more
efficiently and sustainably while leaving their land in better condition for the next generation. Whether you’re operating a Claas 9, 10, or beyond, the Pro 1000 is built for those who demand the best in performance, durability, and results.
For more information or to schedule a demo, visit www. seedterminator.com.au to reach out to your local Seed Terminator representative or contact your local dealer.
minator is expanding its manufacturing capabilities to meet growing demand, particularly in Europe and North America. With 750 Seed Terminators in operation globally and a proven track record of reliability and performance, they’re excited to bring this technology to a broader audience.
Seed Terminator’s success is built on partnerships with forward-thinking farmers like Dion Le Brun from Tumby Bay, South Australia, whose experience with Seed Terminator will be featured in this issue. Farmers like Dion have helped shape their innovations, and their feedback ensures their prod ucts continue to deliver in realworld conditions.
CONCLUSION: LEADING THE CHARGE IN SUSTAINABLE FARMING
The Seed Terminator Pro 1000 is more than just a piece of equip ment—it’s a tool in the toolbox designed to help farmers meet the growing demands of mod ern agriculture. By integrating advanced weed seed control into
HAY AUSTRALIA
HAY AUSTRALIA GROWS FODDER THAT IS CRITICAL FOR IMPORTERS IN COUNTRIES THAT CAN’T PRODUCE THEIR OWN FEED REQUIREMENTS, SAYS HAY AUSTRALIA’S NATIONAL GROWER SERVICES & QUALITY ASSURANCE MANAGER, GEOFF WALKER.
The company is part of the AgTrade group, an Australian owned global livestock, genetics and food security group of companies.
Along with their established export and domestic markets, the business also supplies to their sister company, Austrex, to support the supply of premium dairy cattle, beef cattle, and high-value breeding livestock to the world.
Hay Australia has established export markets in China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East and continues to expand into new markets.
The company operates four processing sites across Australia’s broadacre cropping regions, allowing them to easily source hay and straw from local growers who specialise in growing export compliant fodder.
With an extensive storage capacity spread across the country, the business also maintains a year-round supply of hay and straw for Australia’s livestock industry.
“We source hay and straw from local growers and store it in our
sheds. When we have an order for hay of a specific grade, then we move that to our production shed where we compress bales for export,” Geoff says.
At normal size, a container will take about 12 tonnes of raw hay bales.
“We want to reduce the volume to fit as much as possible into a container. Using hydraulic machines, we press bales and can fit about 26.5 metric tonnes of small bales into a container.”
The compressed format bales are then broken up and fed out in biscuit format, he says.
Hay Australia also produces big bales, made specifically for use in Total Mixed Ration (TMR) feeders.
It’s important that growers have trust in who they’re dealing with.
Hay Australia operates on a secure contract structure that provides flexible terms for growers, as they understand no two businesses operate the same, Geoff says.
The business is focused on providing growers with a dependable and long-term supply
route for their hay, even when it doesn’t meet export standards.
“But we’re more than just about doing business; we’re also about relationships. We’ve had some of the same growers supply to us for years. Our local teams know many of our growers and their families on a personal level. And we’re there working with growers throughout the season to support them in getting the best results possible.”
Different clients have different grading and quality requirements depending on the nutritional needs of their livestock, and this is catered for.
Hay is assessed and graded on two factors. The first is visuals which looks at colour intensity, number of green vs brown leaf, blackspot, bleaching and aroma.
Second is feed analysis. It determines the value of water-soluble carbohydrates (WSC), that is complex sugars. Testing also measures the amount of neutral detergent fibre (NDF) and acid detergent
BIG BALE IS PRESSED AND PACKED INTO A SLEEVE, READY FOR EXPORT.
GEOFF WALKER, NATIONAL GROWER SERVICES & QUALITY ASSURANCE MANAGER.
fibre (ADF) which are key chemical analyses used to estimate the energy value and fibrosity in hay.
One of the challenges they face is the lack of understanding export customers have around the varying nutritional value in the different hay types and meeting customer expectations at the same time.
For example, customers often visually assess hay, linking a greener colour to quality, which is not always the case. But given the small scale of their operation it is all they have available to them, says Geoff.
A critical buying point for customers is the quality of the product.
“It’s paramount that our products are held to the highest standards to safeguard the well-being of our customers' animals. Part of that is ensuring our hay is free from contaminates like rocks, weeds and pests, as well as free from annual ryegrass toxicity (ARGT).”
The quality assurance process starts at paddock level, with assessments ongoing throughout the entire process.
Paddocks are prepared and checked by Hay Australia for
contamination, such as rocks. After seeding another inspection will look at finding metal pieces, weeds or animal bones in paddocks.
Pre-tillering inspections give a good indication of expected yields, while post baling inspections allow the team to study the visual components such as colour, number of brown leaves and stem size.
“We’ve imposed additional quality measures throughout the pressing stage as a last line of defence to check the quality and for contamination. Without this level of due diligence customers
CHARLIE BROWN, DIRECTOR OF INTERNATIONAL SALES.
simply won’t continue to buy the product,” Geoff says.
A critical aspect of hay operations is storage. The industry standard recommends hay moisture levels are kept below 14%. This can greatly minimise the chance of haystack fires in storage sheds.
“In maintaining low levels of moisture, we ensure that products don’t develop mould issues during shipping. Our products can be containerised transport for up to two months,” Geoff says.
Hay Australia have their own big stores and can, for instance,
store 24,000 metric tonnes on one of their sites.
They also contract storage out to growers who have big sheds.
Often hay bales are stored on a contractor's farm and only delivered to Hay Australia for processing once an export contract is signed.
“We commit to buy; they store.”
Hay storage has to be roofed and walled, otherwise it bleaches in the sun, and can be exposed to the weather leading to the moisture content being too high. Pest control is also easier in a contained space, as well as quality checking.
Australian oaten hay is often highly sought after by overseas
livestock markets for its quality and nutritional value.
There are a number of reasons importers can’t produce their own feed requirements.
This can be due to lack of land available, harsh environmental conditions or imposed government restrictions such as a preference to produce food for human consumption over animal feed, Geoff says.
Hay Australia’s Director of International Sales, Charlie Brown, says some of the current challenges faced by the company’s export customers has somewhat impacted demand.
These include the weakening local currencies in our destination countries against the USD and AUD.
“To alleviate these challenges, governments in many of our destination countries are subsidising the production, transportation and consumption of domestically produced feed products and in some cases, the reduction in the herd size,” Charlie says.
“While we remain confident that the overall volume demand for hay will remain fairly consistent in the next 12 months, we do not expect prices to remain supportive.
“In recent times, we have seen
growth in local corporate dairy farming in Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines and Malaysia, to name a few. As these farms convert from being small domestic farms to larger corporate farms they start to look for the best nutritional inputs to ensure quality milk production,” Charlie says.
The Middle East also presents a large opportunity.
Australian weather has proven to be volatile, delivering dry patches in different parts of the country every year.
Regularly these dry spells come as a surprise, catching local graziers unprepared.
“The final opportunity for us exists on our doorstep, by supporting the Australian livestock market.” Charlie says.
The company employs over 100 people across Australia, with jobs extremely important in the regional areas.
For both growers and hay exporters in these areas, skilled labour is a challenge, Geoff says.
To support this, the company is leading an internship program with the University of Adelaide’s Agricultural Students Association to provide students with valuable skills and experience in the hay industry.
SMALL BALE SITTING ON WRAPPING TURNTABLE.
MAG BALE PACKED INTO A CONTAINER FOR EXPORT.
GEARED UP FOR SUCCESS
WITH THE END OF THE ATO’S INSTANT ASSET WRITE-OFF SCHEME RAPIDLY APPROACHING LAST JUNE, LAKE ROWAN DISTRICT FARMER, GREG HOLMES, EMBARKED ON A MAJOR SPENDING SPREE THAT HAS SEEN HIM REPLACE MOST OF HIS FARM MACHINERY POOL.
In short succession, he ordered two high-capacity twin-rotor combine harvesters, a 585 horsepower tractor, a 18-metre precision seeder and air cart and twin-disc fertiliser spreader in a bold move that will power his farming business for at least another decade.
Greg and Georgie Holmes, along with their valued team, Lance Gilmour, Tom Irvine and Scott James, conduct a large-scale cropping program across 2920 ha of owned and leased land centred around ‘Melrose’, 25 km south of Yarrawonga, Victoria.
“We’d been running single rotor combines for years but we wanted something more,” he says.
“I’d been watching three or four Claas Lexions operating around here and they were just so much better.
“They had far more productivity and they were able to work much later into the night.
“Plus, they were able to handle huge volumes of straw without thrashing it to pieces.”
Greg trialled a Claas Lexion 8000 series combine harvester three years ago and decided to go in ‘boots and all’.
“I realised that if I wanted to try something new, then it was time to get on with it,” he says.
Greg ordered two Lexion 8800 Terra Trac harvesters with Convio 1530 draper fronts.
“It was pure economics – I could go from running three machines to two, which is one less driver and one less machine to worry about,” he says.
“The trade-ins for my three existing harvesters and fronts paid for the two new machines.
While waiting for the delivery of the combine harvesters, Greg placed an order for a top-of-the-line Amazone ZA-TS 4200 Profis Pro Hydro fertiliser spreader and then a new Väderstad Seed Hawk 60’ precision seeder and PD680 iCon cart.
“I have never been guilty of procrastination,” he says.
“I needed a new spreader and I needed to replace my existing seeder.
“I was comfortable with Claas Harvest Centre in Echuca, so I decided to go with them.”
The pending arrival of the Seed Hawk meant a new tillage tractor was also in order.
“Adopting 10” spacing meant we were moving from 60 to 72 tynes, so we needed more horsepower than our existing 500 hp articulated powershift tractor,” Greg says.
“Plus, we wanted another tractor we could use during harvest.
“We run two grain bins, so we were always one tractor short.
“Our main tractor is 500 hp but our other tractors are 380 and 280 hp, so they used to get pushed around by the carts.”
Greg successfully trialled a 500 hp Xerion 5000 during harvest last year and was then offered a pre-series Xerion 12 model, which at the time, was one of only five in the country.
“I’ve always tried to buy the model that’s coming, not the one that’s been, so again, we just jumped in,” he says.
“In some ways, moving to the Xerion was an even bigger leap of faith than moving to the Lexion but the level of service we have received from Brendan Caffery, Wayne Oellermann and the team at Claas has been first-rate.”
Available with a maximum power output of 653, 585 or 544 horsepower, Xerion 12 is the most powerful yet built by Claas and is billed as the largest 4WD tractor fitted with a continuously variable transmission as standard.
The series also incorporates category-leading hydraulics and the largest cab on the market.
Xerion 12 follows the same proven design concept as all Xerion models: four equalsized wheels, permanent four-wheel-drive, all-wheel steering and equal weight distribution over both axles.
All three models are powered by the same 15.6 L six-cylinder Mercedes-Benz OM473 engine found in Claas Lexion combine harvesters and Jaguar forage harvesters.
The 12.590 delivers a maximum power output of 585 hp and torque of 2850 Nm at just 1300 rpm.
Greg says his Xerion 12.590 model delivers ‘next level’ performance and efficiency.
“Compared to our old tractor, we’re getting 85 more horsepower at just 1300 rpm and
we’ve still got heaps more power in reserve,” Greg says.
“This is pretty mind-blowing when you consider it’s pulling a 60’ seeder with 72 tynes and 24 tonnes of grain and fertiliser in the cart.”
This is teamed up with a ZF continuously variable transmission and selectable differentials for optimal power transfer to the axles or PTO, even at low speeds or under heavy operating conditions.
Holmes Ag stores most of its harvest on-farm, with more than 15,000 tonnes of wheat and canola out-loaded throughout the year.
Grain is loaded into two Balzer 2250 tri-axle carts, which are equipped with 30 t/hr high capacity unloading augers, enabling a B-double truck to be loaded in less than four minutes.
“Compared to our old articulated powershift tractor, the Xerion is much easier to line up because it’s got the fixed chassis and allwheel steering,” Greg says.
Greg’s tractor is fitted with 800/70 R42 dual tyres and two hydraulic pumps that deliver a maximum flow rate of 447 L/min across six circuits.
The modular ballast system, which enables up to six tonnes to be quickly added to the front or rear axles in 400 kg increments, allows the tractor to seamlessly switch between tasks.
Tom Irvine, who does much of the driving, says the new cabin is extremely spacious, comfortable and quiet.
“It’s so quiet – you turn on the key and you have to do a double-take to see if it’s actually started,” he says
“There’s a lot less vibration and the fourpoint suspension is next level.”
Xerion 12 incorporates a suite of operator assistance systems, including the CEBIS operating system, which features an integrated armrest, multi-function control lever and 12” touchscreen.
Not to be outdone, Greg has just taken delivery of a Claas Axion 960 Terra Trac 445hp tractor to replace his existing 380hp wheeled tractor.
GENERATIONAL SA TRANSPORT BUSINESS KEEPS GROWING
JOHN HAMILTON WAS BORN AND BRED IN TRUCKS AND YEARS OF VIEWING DIFFERENT EQUIPMENT OPERATING IN THE AGRICULTURAL INDUSTRY HAS ALLOWED CONFIDENT FLEET DECISIONS FOR HIS FAMILY’S BUSINESS.
John has been behind the wheel for about 50 years in the Hamilton’s Transport business, which is based at Minlaton on the Yorke Peninsula in South Australia, and his father, Bill, aged 84, is still driving.
John also runs the business with his brother, Andrew, and his sons are now getting involved as well, including Myles (18), Mitchell (16) and Maxwell (13).
Hamilton’s Transport carts bulk materials including grain and fertiliser, as well as hay, and it operates a grain receival site and storage depot for a grain trader. There are now three 32-metre by 70m sheds at the Minlaton site, also providing storage for about 1500 large hay bales.
The hay is carted to loyal clients in Queensland, up to Alice Springs and over to the Riverland in SA.
The business has five prime movers and, in recent years, it has upgraded to two LiuGong wheel loaders to cater for larger material volumes after chalking-up more than 1000 hours in an older LiuGong 842 wheel loader.
Their journey with LiuGong commenced after viewing the manufacturer’s loaders in operation at various sites, including by grain handler, Viterra Australia.
“We have done a lot of grain work in and out of Viterra, and they had a lot of LiuGong loaders,” John said.
“We saw a lot of them working and they were never broken-down. We didn’t hear anything bad about them.
AND
“The older 842 was our first articulated loader we got second-hand with about 600 hours when we were getting into hay properly, and after previously using a John Deere loader. We had no problems with the 842.”
The family upgraded to two high-spec 848H LiuGong wheel loaders, purchased through Lewis Ag and Construction, and they have since also added a LiuGong forklift.
The 15-tonne, 160-horsepower 848H loader features a 3m3 bucket and offers a 10.2t tipping load. Its Cummins QSB7 engine with Stage IIIA emissions and well respected ZF200 automatic transmission offers more comfortable operations and reduced gear reduction. When in second gear, and if the speed is lower than the maximum speed for second gear, at the touch of a key, the gears will automatically shift to first gear in the current direction of operation. If the operator changes the driving direction, the gearbox automatically shifts to the reverse direction of two gears.
LiuGong’s high-spec loader models also offer extra machine options including reversing fans, variable hydraulic transmissions, radial tyres, ride control, rear view cameras,
extra counter weights, air suspension seats and auto lubrication.
The Hamiltons also use a 4t high-lift grain bucket purchased second-hand from Viterra Australia, as well as a set of custom-made forklifts that can carry five hay bales weighing about 750 kilograms each.
“We can load a B-double in about 30 minutes with the hay forks,” John said.
He said LiuGong had become “the CAT of China”, with well-built, “value for money” loaders that offered operators an affordable, “happy medium” option.
“We looked at CAT before we got the 848s, but the same size CAT with 15,000-16,000 hours on the clock is the same price as these new. I just couldn’t bring myself to do that.”
John said the LiuGong wheel loaders were user-friendly and easy to operate, they offered good visibility and the air-conditioning in the cabs was excellent in hot conditions.
“They have the power for what we need and having the Cummins engines in them gives peace of mind.”
He said with the auto-lubrication, there was little required for them to do and with Lewis Ag and Construction carrying out the major scheduled servicing, they only performed simple motor services.
The Hamilton’s LiuGong wheel loaders have attracted the attention of some local farmers and several growers throughout the region already are using them.
ONE OF THE LIUGONG 848H WHEEL LOADERS AT HAMILTON’S TRANSPORT, MINLATON SOUTH AUSTRALIA, LOADING HAY WITH CUSTOM-MADE HAY FORKS.
DAN BROOKES, LEWIS AG AND CONSTRUCTION, CHATS WITH JOHN
MYLES HAMILTON, ABOUT THE NEW LIUGONG T SERIES WHEEL LOADERS SET TO ARRIVE SOON.
FARM EASIER WITH PTX TRIMBLE
PTX TRIMBLE, FORMERLY TRIMBLE AGRICULTURE, CONTINUES TO SUPPORT AUSTRALIAN FARMERS WITH INDUSTRY-LEADING PRODUCTS AND COMMITMENT TO HELP MAKE FARMING EASIER.
This includes retrofit solutions for sprayers, and spot spraying technology that enables farmers to get the most out of existing equipment. These solutions are designed to maximize accuracy, efficiency and most importantly, enhance ROI.
WEEDSEEKER 2
PTx Trimble’s next-generation WeedSeeker ® 2 spot spray system enables farmers to transform their existing spray equipment with green-on-brown technology.
WeedSeeker 2 has advanced optical sensors and powerful processing that detects chlorophyll and automatically turns spray nozzles on and off as they pass over weeds. The spray nozzle applies herbicide in the exact amount needed to kill the weed so farmers can be more efficient and effective with every application.
Using WeedSeeker 2 limits the number of tank refills needed and reduces the amount of chemical applied by up to 90%. This translates into more sustainable practices that generate useful cost savings, which farmers can reinvest in other areas of their operation.
FIELD-IQ ISOBUS ADVANCED SPRAYER
Farmers can utilise PTx Trimble’s FieldIQ™ ISOBUS Advanced Sprayer solution for maximum customization and control of any machine, regardless of the brand, make or model. With this technology, farmers control rate, section and frame managed through any of the GFX displays.
The benefits of implementing this tech-
John said he decided to add the LiuGong forklift because he had faith and trust in the brand.
“I’m also happy to keep all our birds in the one cage.”
The family plans to build a cage for the forklift, which is user-friendly like the loaders, and one of its tasks is helping to wash tarps on top of their tippers.
John also praised the relationship they had developed with Lewis Ag and Construction
and its LiuGong sales representative, Dan Brookes.
Dan said LiuGong equipment was now working in various parts of the State, including in the demolition and timber industries, in addition to agriculture.
He said affordability was a key attraction for operators, particularly considering many machines featured Cummins engines, ZF transmissions and axles, Kawasaki hydraulic pumps, other high quality components plus
nology include significant cost savings from reduced downtime and lower input costs, but farmers who use Field-IQ™ are also seeing the impact when it comes to generating greater net farm income and improving their overall financial position.
CONNECTIVITY
PTx Trimble brings together a variety of precision ag technologies to support the success of farmers throughout Australia, creating a single ecosystem that provides integrated data management solutions to connect the entire operation.
Farmers have real-time access to data with the ability to share and automate workflows, cut down on training time and reduce errors. As farmers know, there are many products on the market with similar claims to improve yield, and save time and money, but you cannot understate the value that comes from a connected ecosystem. Integrating data from any product and having it seamlessly synchronize across devices gives you timely information for better decision making and value generation.
all the creature comforts associated with European styling.
“Operators can get a machine with four years warranty at a similar price to other machine brands that are 10 years old. The standard warranty period is two years and 3000 hours, but we encourage four years and 6000 hours,” Dan said.
He said the arrival of the LiuGong T Series wheel loaders soon was the next exciting step for its wheel loader range.
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HIGH TECH SEEDING SYSTEM REVITALISES AGEING PLANTER
BONSHAW DISTRICT FARMER, WILL RAMSAY, HAS REBUILT A 25-YEAR-OLD ROW PLANTER INTO A STATE-OFTHE-ART PRECISION PLANTER FOR A FRACTION OF THE COST OF A NEW MACHINE.
Will and Kim Ramsay grow more than 340 ha of irrigated cotton, corn, sorghum and barley on ‘Lilyvale’, a 800-hectare property 40 km south-east of Texas in southern Queensland.
They also background up to 200 trade cattle a year.
About four years ago, Will was contemplating the purchase of a new precision planter to replace his ageing John Deere MaxEmerge Plus eight-row planter.
“We were finding it difficult to get a consistent plant stand,” he says.
“Our soil types range from sandy loams to heavy clays and the row units can really bounce around.
“You might end up with a 2 inch seed depth in the sandy soils and 3/4 inch in the clays.”
Will was inspecting planters at FarmFest several years ago when a chance encounter with Dalby-based Ag Leader dealer, Ben Tarrant from Darling Downs Precision, provided him with a different solution.
“Ben told me that rebuilding my planter with a SeedCommand system might be a better option, so I asked for a quote,” he says.
“I was pleasantly surprised – it was going to be a lot cheaper than buying a new planter and it would work in harmony with our existing Ag Leader guidance system.
“We ended up taking the whole package.”
SeedCommand comprises SureSpeed precision metering and SureForce downforce regulation.
SureSpeed is an integrated three-bushel hopper, singulation, metering and powered
delivery system that achieves precise seed placement at any operating speed from 2 to 19 km/h.
It places the seed in the furrow at exactly the same speed as the tractor.
SureForce automatically adjusts the downward or upward pressure in each row unit to maintain a consistent planting depth across varying soil types and planting conditions.
The dual-acting hydraulic actuators produce up to 295 kg of downforce and up to 115 kg of uplift.
Both systems are controlled using the Ag Leader’s InCommand 1200 universal display, which also controls the tractor’s steering.
The 30 cm high visibility touchscreen can also be used to control Ag Leader’s precision spraying, spreading and harvesting applications.
Darling Downs Precision installed the system in August last year.
Will also opted to replace the parallelogram arms, the depth wheel arms and shanks at the same time.
“We ended up spending about $90,000 which is a lot cheaper than a new, eight-row precision planter,” he says.
“This planter will keep running until the technology doesn’t!”
Will has since planted more than 1000 ha of cotton and corn on ‘Lilyvale’ or neighbouring properties using the refurbished planter.
“SeedCommand is a massive step forward compared to what we had,” Will says.
“Our corn yields have increased between 5 and 20 percent, which sounds extreme but that’s what happened.
“SureForce has probably been the most
TRAILMIX TIP-TRAILER TO IMPROVE SILAGE OPERATIONS
FARMTECH’S TRX SERIES TRAILMAX
SILAGE TIP-TRAILER AIMS TO HELP FARMERS GET THEIR SILAGE DONE IN RECORD TIME THIS YEAR.
The problem: Many Australian farmers struggle with slow, inefficient silage transport, wasting valuable time and resources moving feed from the field to the silage pit. This process is not only labour-intensive but also limits productivity, especially on large-scale dairies and feedlots.
The solution: The TRX Series TrailMax silage tip-trailer is the ultimate heavy-duty trailer designed to revolutionize your silage operations. Built to handle the toughest Australian conditions, this machine delivers efficiency, durability, and versatility right where you need it.
WHY CHOOSE THE TRX SERIES TRAILMAX?
- Massive capacity: With a customizable load range of 40 to 60 cubic metres, you’ll move more silage in fewer trips, saving time and boosting productivity.
- Heavy-duty Australian build: Proudly manufactured right here in Australia, the TRX
important in terms of seed placement, while SureDrive eliminates the skips and doubles you can get with a ground driven metering system.
“We are achieving 98 percent accuracy with one percent skips and one percent doubles.
“Before, it was more like 90 percent.
“Being able to control each row individually is a big benefit for us when we’re planting under pivots.”
Will has used Ag Leader steering guidance systems for more than 15 years, with his John Deere 8345R and Case IH Patriot 3330 spray-
Series is crafted from high-quality materials, built to withstand the harshest farm conditions and provide years of reliable service.
- Flotation tyres: These specialized tyres reduce soil compaction, making it easier to navigate rough or soft terrain without damaging your fields.
- Robust hydraulics: Equipped with powerful hydraulic tipping systems, the TRX Series ensures quick and effortless
er both fitted with SteerCommand guidance systems and InCommand 1200 displays.
“We haven’t really considered any other system because we are so familiar with Ag Leader,” Will says.
“Ag Leader works with all the brands and it does everything on one screen.”
Based on his positive experience with SeedCommand, Will says he will be having a close look at Ag Leader’s RightSpot precision spraying system when the time comes to upgrade his sprayer.
RightSpot utilises ‘pulse width modulation’
unloading, so you can get back to work faster.
- Versatile farm use: Beyond silage, this trailer is perfect for handling general farm tasks, making it an essential piece of equipment for any large-scale operation. Don’t let inefficient silage transport slow you down this season. The TRX Series TrailMax silage tip-trailer is the solution you’ve been looking for to streamline your silage operations and make every trip count.
(PWM) technology to ensure boom pressure remains constant regardless of operating speed.
This ensures consistent droplet size, minimising the risk for spray drift and ensuring correct application of crop protection products.
As a global leader in precision agriculture technology, Ag Leader produces a range of integrated and easy-to-use guidance, steering, application control, monitoring and decision support systems that help to make farming easier.
THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS
ESPERANCE REGION FARMER, ANTHONY HESFORD, RECKONS HIS NEW CLAAS XERION 12 SERIES HIGH HORSEPOWER TRACTOR DELIVERS THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS, BEING BIG ENOUGH TO EFFORTLESSLY TOW A 24-METRE SEEDBAR YET NIMBLE ENOUGH FOR CHASING.
Available with a maximum power output of 653, 585 or 544 horsepower, Xerion 12 is the most powerful tractor yet built by Claas and is billed as the largest 4WD tractor fitted with a continuously variable transmission as standard.
The series also incorporates category-leading hydraulics and the largest cab on the market.
Anthony and Jamie Hesford conduct a largescale cropping operation spanning more than 11,500 ha across several properties in the Munglinup, Lort River, Scaddan and Neridup districts.
The purchase of more land in 2023 in the Neridup district triggered the need for an additional tractor and air seeder.
“We were lucky enough to find a second-hand 80’ Seed Hawk seeder and aircart exactly the same model and age as ours but we couldn’t find a tractor anywhere, so we started looking around,” Anthony says.
“We wanted something that had more versatility than our 540 hp tracked tillage tractor but more power and weight than our 350 hp utility tractors.
“We simply can’t afford to have a tillage tractor that sits in the shed doing nothing for 11 months of the year,” Anthony says.
“At the same time, we’ve outgrown our utility tractors.
“Everything is getting bigger and they just
don’t cut it any more for spreading and carting.”
Anthony found himself gravitating towards a Claas Xerion 5000, a 525 hp draught tractor.
“I’ve been interested in these tractors from the get-go,” Anthony says.
“We’ve been running Claas harvesters for more than 25 years and that speaks volumes about what we think of the brand.
“We had a couple of demonstrations with a Xerion 5000 and finally decided to place an order, only to find out we wouldn’t be able to get one in time for this year’s sowing.
“Claas Harvest Centre asked me if I’d be interested in buying a pre-series Xerion 12 instead.
“We have a lot of Claas gear but it’s not the only brand we run.
“We got a quote from all the farm machinery dealers in Esperance so we could compare apples with apples.
“I was surprised they were all more or less the same price but Xerion 12 ticked more of the boxes for me.
“The other big thing for me is the service provided by Claas Harvest Centre in Esperance and that’s why we have been with Claas for so long.
“We’ve had mechanics here until 2 or 3 am making sure we’re ready to go the next day.”
Anthony opted for the smaller Xerion 12.540 model.
“We specifically wanted the 540 because it’s got 900 mm single tyres on a three metre wheel spacing and automatic tyre pressure adjustment,” he says.
“540 hp is what we need for tillage and the four-wheel steering and CVT is going to give us the versatility we’re after.”
Xerion 12 follows the same proven design concept as all Xerion models: four equalsized wheels, permanent four-wheel-drive, all-wheel steering and equal weight distribution over both axles.
All three models are powered by the same 15.6 L six-cylinder Mercedes-Benz OM473 engine found in Claas Lexion combine harvesters and Jaguar forage harvesters.
The 12.540 delivers a maximum power output of 544 hp and 2700 Nm of torque at just 1300 rpm.
Claas’ ‘high torque, low rpm’ powertrain management system means fuel consumption is significantly lower than similar-sized tractors.
“The fuel efficiency has really blown me away,” Anthony says.
“We’re going through 85 to 90 L/hour, even
MAKE THE GRADE WITH KUBOTA’S NEW LAND PRIDE BOX BLADE
KUBOTA AUSTRALIA IS CONTINUING TO IMPROVE ITS CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT ATTACHMENT RANGE WITH THE BB30 BOX BLADE, THE IDEAL ACCESSORY TO LEVEL UP YOUR LANDSCAPING GRADING PROCESS.
The new Box Blade attachment is made in the US at Kubota’s construction equipment manufacturing hub in Kansas.
Fit for purpose on all landscaping and grading jobs, this dual-plane grader can accommodate third party laser and GPS systems to automatically lift and tilt as it moves across the ground. This makes the BB30 Series perfect for precision levelling and grading.
Kubota Australia product manager John Moloney said the attachment is the ultimate tool for contractors, rental yards and landscapers looking to level and grade in a fraction of the time.
“Basic grading work can be done manually, without the need for a third-party grade control system. This will suit applications requiring a rough grade such as landscaping and initial surface prep,” John said.
“Precision grading is delivered through an additional third-party system which takes over control of the attachment for automated and high accuracy grade control.
“The optional laser/2D or GPS/3D attachment control system provides a level grade in minimal time, eliminating operator fatigue while saving time and money. Operators can control grading operations from the cab with precision and accuracy.
“The Kubota BB30 Box Blade is available in 84-inch (2.1m) and 96-inch (2.4m) working
widths. Both sizes are attachment control ready and fitted with a 14-pin harness for seamless integration into Kubota SSV&SVL Series loaders. Masts are included as standard to accommodate third party grade control hardware.
“End panels allow more material to be carried for more aggressive grading. Protecting the end panels from high wear, the reversible side cutters are made from abrasion resistant AR400 steel and ensure maximum protection and durability in tough conditions. Additionally, the side cutters can be adjusted down as they wear.
“Hinged forward and reverse facing cutting edges allow the operator to grade while travelling forward or backward. The floating front axle allows both gauge wheels to be always in contact with the ground, keeping the load distributed evenly. Foam-filled turf tyres ensure excellent floatation and contouring.”
The low-profile design of the BB30 Series allows improved visibility for the operator to observe material cut and fill during use.
The Kubota BB30 Series Box Blade is the ultimate grading addition to your Kubota skid steer or compact track loader. .
under full load, which is at least 20 L/hour less than our tillage tractor.
“That’s pretty impressive when you consider these two tractors have exactly the same horsepower, the same weight and are towing the same seeder.”
This is teamed up with a ZF continuously variable transmission and selectable differentials for optimal power transfer to the axles or PTO, even at low speeds or under heavy operating conditions.
“To be honest, it took us a while to get used to because it is so different to an articulated powershift tractor.
Anthony’s tractor is also fitted with rear linkages, five hydraulic circuits and two hydraulic pumps with a maximum flow of 447 L/minute.
The new 1400-litre fuel tank is central-
ly-mounted, meaning weight distribution remains constant throughout the day.
The new deluxe cab, which is shared with the current Claas Lexion 8000 combine harvesters, features four-point suspension, a rotating driver’s seat, footpegs and a full-size passenger seat with an integrated cool box.
“The cabin is massive and it’s so quiet,” Anthony says.
The exhaust and emissions technology are incorporated into the body.
Xerion 12 incorporates a suite of operator assistance systems, including the Cebis operating system, which features an integrated armrest, multi-function control lever and 12” touchscreen.
Anthony is looking forward to experimenting with the tractor’s modular ballast system, which allows up to six tonnes to be quickly
added to the front or rear axles in 400 kg increments.
He also intends to purchase a set of 710 mm tyres for use during spreading and harvest.
“We normally keep our tractors for 5000 hours so we’re not rushing into anything,” Anthony says.
“It’s still early days but based on our experience so far, we’ll probably swap out both of our utility tractors for another Xerion 12.540 and one day, maybe a Xerion 12.650 (653 hp) with tracks to replace our tracked tillage tractor.
“The moment I can get a Xerion on tracks, I’ll be putting my hand up.
“Right now, Xerion 12 wins hands-down for versatility and in most operating conditions, but the tracks are always going to win in heavy conditions.”
IMPROVED PRODUCTIVITY AND TECHNOLOGY WOULD BE HIGH ON THE LIST OF DESIRABLES WITH ANY NEW SEEDING SYSTEM INVESTMENT AND THAT’S EXACTLY WHAT HAS BEEN ACHIEVED FOR THE SYMES FAMILY IN THE VICTORIAN MALLEE THIS YEAR, IN ADDITION, OF COURSE, TO RECEIVING A MORE ATTRACTIVE PIECE OF KIT.
Graeme and Kaye Symes, together with their son Matt and his wife Trudy, who have two children, Jada (16) and Cooper (14), operate a continuous cropping program over 3700 hectares on a couple of properties at Gama, near Sea Lake. They grow wheat, barley, lentils, field peas and vetch for brown manuring and hay, some canola and occasionally some lupins, with a lot of their grain production now stored on-farm for strategic marketing.
The family had been using a Morris C2 Contour drill and 9450 air cart and decided to upgrade to the manufacturer’s 21-metre Quantum air drill and larger 9550 air cart, adding another 3500 litres to their total tank capacity.
Purchased through local Morris dealer, Belle-Vue Trading, it immediately meant covering the same area as their previous rig in less time and, hence, also importantly, with reduced tractor hours. They now sow about 100ha to lentils and 70-80ha to cereals per tankful.
“Just doing the same area in less time and with less tractor hours all adds to your productiv-
ity these days,” Graeme said.
The lentils and barley are sown at 40 kg/ha and wheat at 60kg/ha, and an 80:20 blend of urea and sulphate of ammonia is applied upfront at 100kg/ha before being followed later by another 50-80kg/ha of straight urea.
“We do use a lot of fertiliser with high sulphur content and so we were certainly taken by all the stainless-steel outlets with the new machines. All the stainless-steel is certainly a big upgrade,” Graeme said.
Soils over the Symes’ properties range from good loams and heavy flats through to deep sands, and dry seeding conditions this year after some heavy summer rainfall, plus some of their highest ever crop yields last season, combined to set up a stern test for the new seeding system this season. Their Morris Quantum air drill is configured with 30-centimetre tine spacings and Primary Sales dual shoot seeding boots to apply additional nitrogen deeper in the soil profile, and the rig is pulled by a 500-horsepower Case IH Quadtrac.
“We start seeding in the first week of April, with the aim to finish by the middle of May, so we generally dry-sow and the conditions were very tough this year,” Graeme said.
“We received about 40mm in December and 60mm in January, which can make the heavy flats go like cement and it was tough going in places, but it got through. You can see the bar has been designed for Australia with its strength.
“The Quantum also has really big wheels and excellent flotation. We can have some seepage come out of the hills onto the tracks and the bin went in a little bit, but the bar just floated over it. The C2 would have been in trouble there.”
Graeme said the heavy stubble residues from last year were going to be a challenge, but they were impressed with the Quantum air drill’s trash handling ability, which he said was also aided by its four-row design.
“We had our most profitable yields last year from some big crops.
“We use a trash cutter and we burned 80ha. We also sowed the heaviest barley paddocks on an 8-degree angle.
“There was a full amount of straw on the ground and we only blocked once.
“There’s no doubt it’s the best bar we’ve ever owned.”
The Symes’ Quantum air drill also incorporated Morris’ AutoLift and Auto-Pack technology, which Graeme said they were still learning to use effectively.
The Auto-Lift allows for automatic lifting and lowering of tines, making headland turns easy, while Auto-Pack automatically adjusts the air drill’s packing pressure according to the soil conditions, providing for correctly closed and packed furrows in order to achieve an ideal seedbed environment.
Other features not lost on the family included a significantly
GRAEME SYMES, PICTURED WITH TONY WILLIAMS AND THE FAMILY’S NEW MORRIS 9550 AIR CART, SAYS METERING ACCURACY WITH THE MORRIS CARTS CONTINUES TO BE BRILLIANT AND AFTER USING A CONVEYOR WITH THE SYSTEM, HE “WON’T BE GOING BACK’’ TO A CONVENTIONAL AUGER.
VICTORIAN MALLEE GROWER GRAEME SYMES, GAMA, AND TONY WILLIAMS, WITH NATIONAL MORRIS DISTRIBUTOR, MCINTOSH DISTRIBUTION, DISCUSS THE STRONG PERFORMANCE OF THE SYMES’ NEW SEEDING BAR, A 21-METRE QUANTUM AIR DRILL.
MIDWEST FABRICATION RECOGNISED AT HENTY MACHINERY FIELD DAYS
MIDWEST FABRICATION
WAS HONOURED WITH THE HIGHLY COMMENDED AWARD AT THE HENTY MACHINERY FIELD DAYS’ MACHINE OF THE YEAR COMPETITION FOR ITS GROUNDBREAKING LEGACY DRAPER FRONTS.
Midwest has established a reputation for producing large, highly efficient draper fronts – the only draper fronts manufactured in Australia.
The Legacy sets the standard for harvesting efficiency, featuring the industry’s largest diameter six-bar pickup reel, delivering increased crop reach and up to 44% more finger tines.
The innovative design not only increases harvesting capacity but also minimises downtime, embodying the company’s dedication to improving the productivity of Australian farmers.
Michael Knight, Sales and Business Development Manager at Midwest Fabrication, emphasised the significance of the recognition.
“This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team,” he says. “For over 27 years, we have been at the forefront of harvest front innovation,
improved airkit design, which helped avoid restrictions, and a narrower transport width of just 5.4m, which was a good advantage considering they had to travel about 10 kilometres between properties.
Graeme said the family had been familiar with Morris Input Control Technology (ICT) on its air carts. However, he said, the system on the latest 9550 model was better set up and the calibration via an app was now much easier.
He said metering accuracy with
and our Legacy model exemplifies that commitment to efficiency and reliability. Receiving this acknowledgment from Henty reinforces our drive to deliver industry-leading solutions to Australian farmers.”
Midwest’s Legacy has undergone rigorous testing, including the harvest of over 2,630 hectares of wheat in Barmedman, NSW, with outstanding results. Growers have consistently praised the platform’s ability to cover more ground in less time, increasing overall farm efficiency.
“Farmers are always pushing
Morris air carts had always been excellent and it was no different with the latest system.
“We can’t fault the accuracy, and the use of a dual fan rather than a single system provides even more control.
“We sow canola down to 1.35kg (/ha). We had 18kg left over and it should have been 20kg, so the metering accuracy is brilliant.”
It was also the Symes’ second Morris air cart with a conveyor and Graeme said they “wouldn’t go back” (to an auger).
“There’s no potential damage
GRAEME AND TONY PICTURED CHECKING LENTIL ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FAMILY’S GAMA PROPERTY EARLIER THIS SEASON.
the limits for greater efficiency,”
Michael says. “With the Midwest Legacy, farmers are not only seeing lower operating costs, but also fewer mechanical issues, thanks to its simple, durable design – an essential factor when time is critical during harvest.”
A FUTURE-READY COMMITMENT TO AGRICULTURE
The Legacy’s cutting-edge design marks a continued innovation for Midwest Fabrication. With a full-time engineer dedicated to developing the next gen-
(to grain) and it reduces your fill times – it’s excellent.”
The family’s tow-between Morris 9550 air cart also incorporates double pivot geometry,
eration of fronts, the company is well-prepared to meet the evolving demands of modern agriculture.
“We are already looking at pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with 20 to 24-metre draper fronts,” says Michael.
Despite numerous challenges, including drought, fire, and even a global pandemic, Midwest Fabrication has remained committed to delivering top-quality, Australian-made machinery to the market, which has been recognised by this recent award at Henty Machinery Field Days.
which recognises the two drawbar pins on the front and rear of the air cart and correctly tracks the bar around corners, ensuring accurate ICT coverage.
ONLY CLAAS FOR GRASS
CLAAS DISCO MOWER
f Top cut quality with MAX CUT
f ACTIVE FLOAT – perfect ground contouring
f Perfect cut – clean forage and perfect crop flow
