Farms & Farm Machinery #451 June 2025

A-MUCK Running

CHOOSE TYRES THAT WORK AS HARD AS YOU DO.

CHOOSE A PARTNER WHO KNOWS WHAT IT TAKES TO BE 70 YEARS IN THE FIELD.

the cover 10 E uent handling specialist Muck Runner is providing customers with even larger machinery options, thanks to the new Samson range

6 Tractor & Machinery Association conference speakers announced

7 De Rosa’s Highway Motors adds brands 61 Award and milestone helps Rocky River Ag Services to

8 Industry reacts to federal election result 15 Deal allows apple exports to China 15 New seeding technology rolled out in WA 16 Success with microbial biotechnology eld trials

16 Scholarship to help First Nations people with ag careers

Editor Lincoln Bertelli

lincoln.bertelli@primecreative.com.au

Journalist Jackson Haddad

Contributors Trevor Whittington, Gary Northover

Design Danielle Harris, Jacqueline Buckmaster

Art Director Daz Woolley

Managing Editor Eugene Du y

Cover image Muck

17 Victorian budget includes drought funding

18 Strength and service behind Now Buildings’ success

30 Achmea’s Alison Treston shares passion for insurance and helping rural women

50 Virtual fencing legalised by two more state governments

22 Durability and value at the forefront for Mahindra 26 JCB telehandler gives new opportunities for racecourse

32 Rata Equipment Power Claw proves a shrewd investment

36 Customised Veldonas pump systems helping farmers

38 Wattz customer reaping bene ts of full lighting package

42 Features combine on Antonio Carraro’s Tony 8900 R tractor

47 McCormick tractors work in harmony for horticulture grower

Market news

52 Only one state recorded a tractor sales rise in April, according to Tractor and Machinery Association gures

54 A new addition to the WAFarmers team has CEO Trevor Whittington pondering what can be done to attract migrants to regional Australia

Regular items

Editor’s note

Calendar of upcoming events 74 List your item for sale!

81 Cutting edge technology HiReach Rentals invests in upgraded access equipment eet

Image: Wattz

Welcome

to the latest edition of Farms &

Farm Machinery

It has been a big month for Farms & Farm Machinery, as we look to consolidate the magazine’s presence long into the future.

Firstly, we are proud to announce that Farms & Farm Machinery is now the Tractor and Machinery Association of Australia’s media partner, which will involve extensive coverage of both the TMA’s annual conference in July and ongoing work throughout the year.

This coverage begins with an in-depth look at the conference’s speakers in this edition.

We have also signed a media partnership with Hort Connections, the horticulture industry’s biggest annual event which took place earlier this month.

Our team was in Brisbane for that and also headed to Toowoomba for Farmfest, with coverage from both these events to feature in the next edition.

It is exciting to grow and diversify our coverage of these sectors as we aim to bring you all the important news and provide rst-hand accounts of Australian farmers using the machinery we discuss in each edition.

The customer testimonials continue this month as we speak to the owner of a pair of McCormick tractors from Clark Equipment, plus a Rata Equipment Power Claw owner.

We also hear from one of the rst Australians to have a full set of Wattz lights on their tractor, while we learn about how a new JCB telehandler is already making a di erence behind the scenes at Sunshine Coast Turf Club.

Our cover story looks at e uent handling specialist Muck Runner, which is adding a brand-new range of Samson machinery that will exceed the capacity of its current o ering.

Now Buildings specialises in sheds for the rural market and we learn about how this has been a formula for long-term success.

Another well-established company is Vel-

donas, and we hear about how its many years in the pump industry has it well placed to o er tailored solutions for farmers.

Mahindra tractors are known the world over and are huge in their native India, and we speak to the company’s recently added ag sales manager about how he plans to grow their market presence Down Under.

Insurance is something which farmers cannot overlook and Achmea Farm Insurance’s Alison Treston outlines why she believes insurance is about more than paperwork or policies.

We also speak to Rocky River Ag Services - which was named Flexi-Coil’s dealer of the year for 2024 - about the importance of the CNH Industrial-owned brand to its o ering.

Another recent award winner is one of Antonio Carraro’s tractors, which is pro led in depth in this edition.

Virtual fencing has been a hot topic in both Victoria and New South Wales, so we look at recent legislative changes in each state and what this will mean for the concept.

Our industry news section includes reaction to last month’s federal election along with Victoria’s state government announcing drought relief funding.

Lincoln Bertelli Editor

Future ready

Under the theme “Are We Future Ready?”, this year’s TMA conference addresses the urgent question facing Australia’s agricultural machinery sector as it adapts to accelerating technological, environmental, and economic change

The Tractor and Machinery Association of Australia’s 2025 annual conference is set to take place on Thursday July 24 at the Hyatt Essendon Fields in Melbourne.

With an agenda focused on bold thinking and real-world solutions, the 2025 conference will explore everything from digital disruption and data-driven farming to machinery trends and the mental health of rural communities.

The rst batch of conference speakers have been announced, and are:

Lachlan Monsbourgh – Rabobank (The Future of Farming and the Role of Data)

As agricultural and environmental Lead in Rabobank’s global rural portfolio, Lachlan will discuss how the future of farming is being shaped by environmental responsibility, data management, and evolving global expectations.

Drawing on his experience in commodity trading and plantation management across Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, and Mexico, Lachlan brings a global perspective grounded in practical realities.

Robbie Se on AM – Se ons (Primed for Progress: Innovation, Growth, and Opportunity in Agriculture)

A nationally respected voice in regional Australia, Robbie will speak on harnessing innovation and leadership for rural growth.

With experience spanning business, government, and non-pro ts, she brings rich insights into shaping a resilient, future-forward agricultural sector.

Gus Hogan – Delta Agribusiness (Insights from On-Farm Advisors on Machinery and Technology)

As precision ag manager at Delta Ag, Gus will share real-world experiences from the intersection of agronomy, data, and machinery.

With a background in engineering and agtech, Gus will unpack the evolving role of agronomists and precision agriculture specialists in in uencing machinery decisions and outcomes.

Melinda Haley – Kynetec (State of the Industry)

Melinda has in excess of 20 years’ experience in data analysis and research within the agricultural industry globally.

She is widely regarded as a thought leader in the provision of business intelligence, data mining, predictive analysis and data visualisation in food, bre and biotechnology.

A cornerstone of her success is attributed to her ability to understand the challenge and then blend multiple data sets to provide deep market insights.

Justin Smirk – Westpac (Economic Update)

A veteran economist with over two decades of experience in nancial markets, Justin will present a comprehensive update on Australia’s economic landscape - including labour trends, commodity markets, and the outlook for agricultural nance.

Brad Hogg – GPA Mental Health Initiative (Mental Health in Agriculture)

Former Australian cricketer and now national ambassador for Grain Producers Australia’s Farmer Mates Mental Health program, Brad will deliver a powerful talk on mental health in rural Australia.

Drawing on his own experiences, Brad’s message aims to reduce stigma, encourage connection, and raise awareness of support resources for farming communities.

More speakers will also be announced in the coming weeks.

This year’s TMA conference promises to challenge, connect, and inspirebringing together the minds and voices shaping the future of the industry.

Whether you’re a dealer, manufacturer, advisor, or stakeholder in the machinery supply chain, this is your chance to be part of the conversation.

For tickets and further details, visit www.tma.asn. au/2025-annual-conference/

Last year’s TMA conference, held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, attracted a big crowd

Dealer acquisition

The Case IH and K-Line Ag brands have been added to the o ering of a Western Australian dealer, which serves customers south of Perth

Western Australia’s De Rosa’s Highway Motors has announced its acquisition of the Case IH and K-Line Ag franchises for its Waroona location, south of Perth, including servicing the wider Margaret River area stretching south to Manjimup.

This addition expands the dealership’s o ering to three CNH leading brands, having already provided New Holland, reinforcing its commitment to providing farmers, contractors and agricultural professionals with top-quality machinery and services.

De Rosa’s Highway Motors was established in 1968 and has since built a strong reputation for exceptional service and high-quality equipment for Waroona, and surrounding communities.

De Rosa’s Highway Motors dealer principal Gavin Dunstan says Case IH brings cutting-edge technology and innovative

solutions to the dealership’s portfolio, o ering high-performance equipment such as tractors, harvesters, and hay equipment, while K-Line Ag strengthens the o ering with its tillage and soil management solutions.

“We are thrilled to expand our range with Case IH and K-Line Ag, further solidifying our role as a leading supplier of world-class agricultural equipment,” Dunstan says.

“These additions enable us to o er even more options to our customers, backed by the industry-leading service and support that has been a cornerstone of our dealership since 1968.”

As well as o ering an expanded machinery and equipment portfolio, Dunstan says the business was also committed to supporting its customers with expert parts, service, and maintenance, ensuring

the optimal performance of all equipment.

CNH business director – agriculture ANZ, Aaron Bett, congratulated De Rosa’s on the latest development and says it is an important addition to the Case IH dealer network.

“De Rosa’s is a respected name in the region, serving the local farming community so well for so many years,” he says.

“With the Case IH and K-Line Ag brands now added to its ranges, we can see some exciting opportunities for both the brands and local customers.”

De Rosa’s Highway Motors dealer principal Gavin Dunstan says the additions enable the business to o er more options for customers.

Election reaction

Industry groups have reacted to the federal election, which has con rmed the Labor government’s return

Labor’s return to federal government means farmers can anticipate the rollout of the party’s budget promises.

These included $3.5 million over two years to develop a National Food Security Strategy, along with nearly $24 million over three years to sponsor agricultural trade events.

Money was also promised for a Buy Australian campaign, along with continuing e orts to reduce the burden of feral animals, weeds and pests.

The food strategy was highlighted by National Farmers Federation president David Jochinke as a key action area for the returning government.

“They’ve backed things like moving on a right to repair, and investing in farm safety, connectivity, and our trade relationships,” Jochinke says.

“The job for us now is to partner on getting those things done.

“Importantly, they’ve embraced the idea of a National Food Security Strategy. We’re hoping we can use this to drive some really positive collaboration between industry and government.

“That piece of work has been a long time coming and with the uncertain state of the world it’s never been more critical.”

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also announced that Tasmania’s Julie Collins –who replaced Murray Watt as agriculture minister in July last year – will continue in the role.

Collins describes it as a “great honour” to continue as agriculture minister and says “my promise to Australia’s farmers and producers is that I will never stop listening and engaging with you”.

Grain Producers Australia CEO Colin Bettles wrote to Collins with the GPA’s elec-

tion priorities, and in her reply Collins says the government is “committed to a robust, sustainable agriculture industry, including the grains sector, that continues to prosper and grow in Australia”.

The reply also addressed the government’s planned food strategy, Feeding Australia.

“The strategy will boost the security and supply chain resilience of agriculture and food production systems in Australia and will be developed through a collaborative approach with industry stakeholders,” Collins wrote.

“In addition, we will establish a National Food Council consisting of stakeholders across the food system to advise on the development and implementation of the strategy.

“Feeding Australia will also include the

development of a National Feedstock Strategy to optimise Australia’s feedstock production for low carbon liquid fuels.

“This will help secure Australia’s longterm sustainable fuel security.”

Jochinke also acknowledged the Coalition, who he says supported many of the NFF’s election priorities.

He believes it is important for the sector to work with all parliamentarians to ensure agriculture’s interests are best represented.

“Agricultural advocacy isn’t just about working with the major parties,” he says.

“We’ve appreciated independents and minor parties who’ve opened their door to the NFF in recent years.

“We want to build on those relationships and embrace new ones because delivering for farmers depends on having champions right across the Parliament.”

Julie Collins has been Australia’s agriculture minister since last July. Image: Julie Collins Food

Australia’s Most Useful Attachment

A-MUCK Running

Long-standing relationships are at the core of every family business, and there is no greater evidence of this than dairy e uent handling specialist Muck Runner.

Based out of Mount Gambier in South Australia, Muck Runner is the exclusive Australian importer and distributor for Pichon machinery, with the foundations of this partnership built on a personal relationship spanning the best part of three decades.

It all started with Muck Runner director Tom Paltridge and a chance meeting at an

overseas eld day.

As an ambitious dairy farmer, Paltridge was having trouble managing e uent –the natural cow by-product.

If not managed properly this can have negative impacts on the environment, but with the right systems and machinery in place, it can be used as a nutrient-rich organic fertiliser.

Wanting to make full use of the nutrients from his farm’s dairy e uent, Paltridge was immediately intrigued at the eld day when he stumbled upon a family business

by the name of Pichon Industries, which was showcasing machinery used to suck up and spread dairy and animal farm e uent back onto paddocks.

Paltridge was so impressed that he imported the rst Pichon machine into Australia – leading to the establishment of Muck Runner.

Today, Pichon has manufactured quality galvanised e uent handling machinery for 55 years, with Muck Runner having had an ongoing and personal relationship with the manufacturer for 29 of those years.

Samson machinery is made by Pichon’s parent company SamsonAgro

A brand-new range of Samson machinery is coming to e uent handling specialist Muck Runner, which will exceed the capacity of its current o ering

Images: Muck Runner

This includes a personal relationship with the Pichon family – who founded and ran the company – with the business partnership continuing even a er Pichon was acquired by Danish machinery powerhouse SamsonAgro in 2019.

“That rst encounter I had with Phillippe Pichon was the beginning of a lifelong friendship and a close relationship between Muck Runner and Pichon,” Paltridge says.

Due to this, Muck Runner has the whole Pichon range available for distribution in Australia, including slurry tankers, muck spreaders, slurry mixers and spreading application equipment, with all machinery specialising in the handling of dairy e uent, such as cow manure, urine and washdown water.

“E uent contains macro and micronutrients, organic matter and water,” Paltridge says.

“Adding e uent back to pastures can improve soil fertility and its structure, in addition to the lower mineral fertiliser costs.”

New range

In exciting news for Muck Runner customers, the positive relationship with Pichon has led to Muck Runner being appointed an Australian dealer of Samson tankers and spreaders, which are made by Pichon’s Danish parent company.

When SamsonAgro bought Pichon, Paltridge says it made the Danish company the largest manufacturer of slurry tankers in Europe.

“The exciting thing about Muck Runner now being an agent for Samson machinery in Australia is that the Samson range goes much bigger than Pichon,” he says.

“We are now able to o er customers extra-large volume tankers and spreaders, but with the same Muck Runner knowledge and service.”

Complementing the existing Pichon range, Muck Runner’s expanded o ering will provide more optionality for dairy farmers wanting to fertilise with their e uent.

Pichon’s largest tanker is 21,000 litres and its largest spreader is 24 cubic metres, however, the new range will see tankers and spreaders o ered up to 34,500 litres and 40 cubic metres respectively.

Paltridge says the new Samson PG 11 Genesis slurry tanker series – with capacities between 18,500 and 34,500 litres – is designed for e cient, powerful, and accurate slurry application.

These tankers are easy to use and maintain, he adds, ensuring optimal performance in demanding conditions.

Various implements can be easily and quickly switched on these slurry tankers, which are tailored for use with injectors, incorporators, and booms, providing ver-

satility and precision in slurry application.

Large tyres have been used on the machines to minimise compaction, and thus protecting crops and soil, while the tankers are more than capable of handling heavy implements with e cient loading and unloading.

A high-capacity centrifugal pump, advanced braking, electronic steering, and LED lights also feature on the Genesis series.

Muck Runner will also o er the Samson US spreader, which is designed to handle a steadily increasing volume and variety of materials.

Available in capacities from 23 to 40 cubic metres, Paltridge says this spreader range meets the rising demand for application e ciency, optimal nutrient utilisation in fertilisers, and environmental protection, while delivering the wellknown Samson quality.

Two di erent versions are on o er, a 2-axle (US 2) and a 3-axle (US 3) variation, o ering more versatility for customers.

An advanced control system dubbed ‘SpreadMaster 8500’ ensures consistent and equal spreading, with the technology allowing dosing and documentation based on an application map. It is also available with static or dynamic weighing for precise dosing.

While the Samson range will be Muck Runner’s latest o ering, Paltridge says

The Samson US spreader range is available in capacities from 23 to 40 cubic metres

Pichon machinery will continue to form the backbone of the business – as it always has.

Personal touch

As a dairy farmer himself, Paltridge has used Pichon’s e uent machinery for many years on his own property.

He can attest to the quality, robustness and longevity of its products, which can be seen through the rst Pichon tanker Paltridge imported into Australia nearly 30 years ago.

“It’s still going with its third or fourth owner and is as e ective as the day it was built,” Paltridge says.

Every piece of Pichon machinery that arrives in Australia is personally assembled and bolted together by Paltridge,

meaning he intimately knows every piece of equipment he has sold.

In the unfortunate case there’s a problem with the machinery, having this knowledge allows him to solve most problems with ease.

Priding himself on customer service and a ersales support, Paltridge says he personally commissions each piece of equipment, where possible, anywhere from the vast expanses of Western Australia or as far as 1,000km north of Brisbane.

“This is the part of the business that really drives me and that I enjoy most –meeting and interacting with customers, visiting their farms, having a co ee at their kitchen table, hearing their stories, helping them get the most from their valu-

able e uent resource and being available on the phone anytime to help with any issues, problems, spare parts or to just have a chat and hear about how things are going on their farm,” he says.

Muck Runner’s current range of Pichon machinery o ered includes SV slurry tankers with capacities of 6,600 to 20,100 litres, MK muck spreaders from 10 to 24 cubic metres, and slurry mixers from 5m to 10.5m – all fully galvanised.

A working spreading width of up to 20m is enabled with the muck spreaders, which excel in many applications, including on-road, in hilly terrain and on uneven ground.

There are also three di erent spreading solutions, with the rst being 885mm or

1,035mm diameter vertical beaters for volume spreading, such as muck o feed pads, laneways, calving sheds and yards.

For spreading lighter materials such as composted chicken manure, at very precise rates, one solution is spreading table with horizontal edges, while another is spreading hood on vertical beaters.

“There’s no good spreading job without a good mixing job,” Paltridge says.

“Mixing the contents of a slurry store properly makes it easier to spread the liquid evenly and accurately, therefore getting the best bene ts from liquid organic fertilisers.”

To ensure this, customers can invest in Muck Runner’s range of B-MIX slurry mixers, which can adapt to many types of slurry pits or lagoons.

All slurry mixers come with two remov-

able blades at the base of the screw, as well as one removable counter blade at the end of the frame.

In addition to these products, Muck Runner has a wide range of application equipment, including drip hose booms, trailing shoe booms, disc and tine injectors and incorporators.

“Pichon’s surface application, injection and incorporation techniques optimise plants’ use of nutrients,” Paltridge says.

“They improve soil fertility and reduce ammonia emissions. As well as improving air quality, they provide an e ective supply of natural fertiliser to help the paddock reach its maximum potential.”

With long-term loyalty to the Pichon brand and an absolute belief in the quality of its products, Muck Runner is looking forward to complementing them with the new Samson range.

Customers can rest assured they will be getting the same extensive product and operational knowledge from the business.

“Muck Runner has adhered to simple principles that have underpinned our success and longevity,” Paltridge says.

“We have a genuine desire to help farmers understand that their e uent resource is a valuable organic fertiliser, and help them understand the bene ts of returning it to their pastures and crops, plus we prioritise customer relationships, service and provision of anytime advice and problem solving.”

For more information, visit muckrunner.com.au or call

Tom Paltridge on 0419 851 543.

Muck Runner is looking forward to introducing the new Samson products

Muck Runner has been appointed an Australian dealer of Samson tankers and spreaders

Tom Paltridge has used Pichon’s e luent machinery on his own property for many years

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The best value for money Front End Loader mounted post hole digger on the market. Standard with Eurohitch connection with other styles available. Various augers sizes and types available

Australian made aerators using the Shattertine technology. Great for cracking open hard ground and rejuvenating pastures.

Large range of linkage and trailing disc ploughs to suit all tractors and applications.

10 ‘ & 12’ Trailing Grader Blades. 2000kg in weight Best value for money blade of its type

Australian Made slashers with 5 year gearbox warranty. Various sizes and models in single and twin rotor set-up. Great value and strength. Also available in galvanised.

Huge range of linkage models available also.

Apple exports

Australian mainland apple exports will soon be available to China, enabling growers to meet an ongoing international demand

The signing of a new biosecurity protocol will allow Australian mainland apples to be exported to China, commencing in the 2026 season.

The landmark agreement, signed by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and the General Administration of Customs, China, marks a pivotal step forward for Australian apple growers seeking to expand their international export footprint.

Hort Innovation says this new market access presents an opportunity to tap into China’s strong demand for premium, high-quality imported fresh fruit.

It builds on the foundations already established by Tasmania, where growers

Grain gains

New seeding technology is being rolled out in Western Australia to boost grain trials, which aim to deliver improved returns for the state’s growers

Two new custom-built cone seeders will support Western Australia’s Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s (DPIRD) grain research in the Wheatbelt and Mid West.

The Grains Research and Development Corporation and the state government invested $480,000 into the new seeders, which feature the latest technology to improve accuracy of sowing eld trials in diverse soil types and conditions.

Key features include a compact design to improve transport, precision row placement using global positioning systems technology and versatility to sow a range of seed and crop types from canola to faba bean.

The new and improved seeders also allow sowing at varying plot lengths and can deliver variable rate liquid treatments at di erent depth placements, the state government says.

“DPIRD undertakes more than 200

have been successfully exporting to China since 2010.

Apple growers have already been exporting more than 2,500 tonnes of apples to international markets, according to Hort Innovation, however this new agreement has the potential to open up a large opportunity.

Hort Innovation adds Chinese consumers have a well-established preference for branded, high-quality fruit with exceptional freshness and avour, to which this deal will support.

Signing of this protocol was supported

Image: Janelle/stock.adobe.com

by Hort Innovation and the Apple and Pear research and development levy projects: Apple and Pear Trade Development and Market Access Program (AP23003) and Apple & Pear Market Access & Trade Development Project (AP21001).

Both projects have been focused on expanding market access, increasing engagement and understanding of trade, educating international markets about Australian apples and pears, export capability, competitiveness education for growers, as well as ensuring the industry is ready to act swi ly if new markets open.

$480,000 was invested into the new seeding technology. Image: oticki/stock.adobe.com

grains research experiments each year, working closely with farming groups and research partners to address various aspects of grain production – from soil and crop science to pest and disease management to genetic improvement –and to help overcome challenges faced by WA growers in a changing climate, including seasonal rainfall variability,” WA agriculture and food minister Jackie Jarvis says.

“These new cone seeders will signicantly enhance DPIRD’s eld research capability and feature the latest technologies to allow scientists to ne tune trial sowing regimes in varying soil types and conditions.”

DPIRD’s grains research supports WA’s $10 billion grains industry, addressing local production challenges and enhancing the sustainability and pro tability of the state’s grain businesses.

Australian mainland apples will be able to be exported to China in the 2026 season.

Mutual bene ts

saying the results in the rst year of trials at Gatton, Queensland were encouraging.

Field trials have found microbial biotechnology could bring simultaneous bene ts for soil regeneration, crop yield and carbon sequestration

The University of Queensland (UQ) has conducted eld trials in collaboration with agri-biotech company Loam Bio to test fungal endophyte inoculants in soybean plants.

UQ’s Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI) research fellow Vijaya Singh says fungal endophyte inoculants were bene cial microbes applied to seeds.

“It’s a symbiotic relationship – in return for providing the host plant with nutrients and water the fungal microbes get carbon as a food,” Singh says.

“Atmospheric carbon xed by the plant ows into the soil via uids released by the roots, increasing the soil carbon rather than removing it. More carbon means more grain yield, which is why it’s exciting for me because we’re doing meaningful research.

“Building carbon in the soil improves the soil structure, increases the water content of the soil and nutrient availability and capture.”

Loam Bio has been developing the inoculants for more than four years, with company researcher Neeraj Purushotham

“What we are looking at with our UQ collaboration is to understand more deeply how our inoculant works and also understand how stable carbon is built because that is what stays in the soil,” Purushotham says.

“By increasing the amount of carbon sequestered you’re helping the farmer because the healthier the soil, the less fertiliser you need.

“That would mean reducing the use of fertilisers while generating the same bene t in terms of yield, as well as getting carbon inside the soil.”

Singh adds the results warranted further investigation.

“Our ndings suggest the endophytes have potentially bene cial impacts on crop growth, yield and play a role in altering soil organic matter,” Singh says.

career options available in the Australian agricultural industry, including the elds of agronomy, livestock, agtech and sales.

Career pathways

A partnership between Elders and Charles Sturt University will see First Nations scholarships o ered to highlight career options in the agricultural industry

Charles Sturt University and Elders have launched a scholarship to encourage First Nations people to pursue career pathways in agriculture.

The scholarship aims to empower the next generation of First Nations leaders in agriculture with the resources and opportunities to create pathways and foster a more inclusive and diverse agricultural industry.

It was launched as part of the Elders’ board of directors’ recent visit to the Wagga Wagga university, in which a Memoran-

dum of Understanding had been established between the two organisations.

Two scholarships will be available, each worth $24,000, paid over the duration of the degree, and are open to students from First Nations Australian backgrounds studying a Bachelor of Agriculture, Bachelor of Agricultural Science, Bachelor of Agricultural Business Management, Bachelor of Horticulture or Bachelor of Viticulture at Charles Sturt.

The scholarships will highlight the

According to Charles Sturt research, less than ve First Nations students graduate from agriculture courses nationally each year.

Despite strong cultural connections to land, First Nations Australians make up one per cent of the agricultural workforce. Of the one per cent of the national agricultural workforce that identi es as First Nations, 44 per cent of these are aged between 15 and 33.

Charles Sturt’s pro vice-chancellor of student success Heather McGregor says this collaboration will increase aspiration to study agricultural degrees and diversify the agriculture industry.

“We are excited about collaborating with a range of stakeholders to increase engagement with First Nations youth and community, particularly to build aspiration to study in agricultural degrees,” she says.

“Just as importantly, we will also look at any customisations needed to our existing First Nations Student Connect services to assist students in these degrees to succeed.”

Vijaya Singh in the field with the trial crop at Gatton, Queensland Image: UQ

Charles Sturt University has teamed up with Elders. Image: Charles Sturt Uni

Further support

Victoria’s state government has announced two separate drought support packages, which now provides statewide relief

On-farm infrastructure grants, nancial counselling and mental health support forms the basis of the Victorian government’s latest drought support package.

Two separate rounds of funding were announced last month, with the rst round providing grants to farmers in 24 local government areas, before rolling out the support package across the entire state.

The rst package was valued at $15.9 million, before an additional $37.7 million was announced late in the month.

Having supported more than 1,500 farmers already, the infrastructure grant will provide up to $5,000 to help farmers invest in improvements such as water infrastructure upgrades, grain and fodder storage, along with drought management tools such as soil moisture monitors and weather stations.

“We’ve already supported more than 1,500 primary producers with on-farm infrastructure and now we’re expanding

that support as drought conditions persist across south west Victoria and are now impacting south Gippsland and other areas of the state,” Victorian agriculture minister Ros Spence said when the rst round of funding was announced.

“I’ve heard directly from farmers about the impact drought conditions are having on our communities – we’re continuing to back them with the support they need to tackle the challenging dry conditions across the state.”

In recognition of the drought’s ongoing impact in some areas, payments will be increased to $10,000 across 11 council areas, and part of the West Wimmera region.

It will also be expanded to cover water carting and pasture re-establishment.

A Small Business Financial Counsellor will also be appointed to help small businesses in impacted local government areas.

Another part of the funding includes the

Victoria’s drought support package has been expanded to cover more of the state. Image: Shirley and Johan/ stock.adobe.com

state government extending its partnership with the National Centre for Farmer Health and investing $900,000 to “deliver ongoing services and resources to the farming community”.

Farmers across the state will also pay a reduced Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund contribution during the upcoming nancial year,, capped to the same amount as 2024-25.

The government also says Agriculture Victoria’s farm business technical and decision-making support will also be made available across the entire state.

A drought response taskforce will also be set up, which will be chaired by premier Jacinta Allan.

The state’s regional drought coordinator Ralph Cotter – who was appointed in January – encourages farmers to take advantage of all the support available.

“Farmers experiencing tough drought and dry conditions are urged to reach out We are here to help through connecting you with the nancial grants, technical advice or wellbeing support to help you navigate this di cult time,” he says.

FARMING

Made to last

Thousands of happy customers cannot be wrong – and Now Buildings has almost two decades worth of reviews to back up the quality of its rural sheds

There is no substitute for either quality or experience, and rural shed manufacturer Now Buildings has an abundance of both these traits.

Producing top-quality, Australian-made sheds that last – and ensuring its customers are looked a er – are unwavering values for Now Buildings.

Even the company’s origin story speaks to these values.

“I’ve been in the industry for about 30 years and I used to own half of a very large shed company which I sold in 2006,” Now Buildings director Trevor Walker says.

“The reason I sold out is because although it was a good company, I wanted to do things better.

“I wanted to do things where the customers were put rst, and that is something we don’t take lightly.

“From our point of view, it is crucial that

we exceed the customers’ expectations in every single thing in the whole chain.”

As Now Buildings nears 20 years in operation, this approach has helped the company grow its annual turnover from $2 million to over $30 million and develop a list of thousands of happy customers along the way.

Farmer’s mate

Now Buildings is not a residential shed builder who looks to simply increase the size of its products to accommodate farm machinery.

It is exclusively a rural shed manufacturer who knows that Australia’s farmers work in some of the harshest conditions imaginable and need sheds to match.

Made using BlueScope steel – something which has been the case since the company’s inception – these are locally-made sheds speci cally designed for rural Australia.

Another bene t of the company’s established presence in the market is having access to a strong network of shed builders it can draw upon when required, wherever the job may be.

“We have a network of 25 full time independent builders, and we don’t charge anything on top of their costs which means the customer saves money,” Walker says.

“We’ve also got about the same number again in part time builders and this gives us excellent building coverage right across the country.

“We also train the builders to make sure that customers are getting the very best quality in that regard as well.”

Now Buildings is a wholesale company which deals exclusively with ABN holders –which Walker says virtually all farmers are –and this enables nal costs to be kept down.

While providing cost-e ective sheds is

something the company prides itself on, the ultimate guiding principle is to build top quality products that last.

Building nous

Quality materials combined with expert design and building help to explain what sets the company’s sheds apart.

All Now Buildings sheds use high tensile bolts and Class 4 fasteners, with gutters and downpipes included.

The expert team provides site-speci c engineering from an independent structural engineer, heavy duty connection and footing design, along with using high-grade industrial strength materials throughout.

“The biggest di erence with us is there’s no compromise on quality,” Walker says.

“Customers are going to end up with a fantastic product that they’re proud of and they’ll be raving about how good it is.

“Our screws are a grade above everybody else. We use Grade 4 screws which can go right up close to salt or oceans and it doesn’t rust or degrade.

“It’s the same with the high tensile galvanised bolts – your whole building is

held together by these components and if those components aren’t good, your whole building is useless.

“Our double bracket footing system are not the cheapest options but they’re the best.

rural sheds only means they are suited to remote environments

“We are proud of the product and we won’t compromise.”

To know how to construct a top quality shed, it is necessary to know where the shed is most vulnerable and which sections need the most attention.

Now Buildings sheds can withstand Australia’s harsh conditions

Building

FARMING

Walker says there are three main areas of vulnerability that Now Buildings focus es on, to ensure its sheds withstand the test of time in any conditions.

The rst point is the base of the shed, right at the footings.

“We have a heavy-duty hot dip galva nised footing bracket that goes down into the concrete,” Walker says.

“There’s reinforcement in that footing that bends over the top of it, so we have never lost a shed being pulled out of the footings out of many, many thousands. It’s the strongest footing system in the country.”

The next most vulnerable point is the eaves, Walker says, and Now Buildings has a two-fold approach to eliminating any issues there.

“We have that double bracketing system folding through both sides and we also have a series of high structural Tek screws go in so there can’t be any movement in the bolt holes,” he says.

“Then we close up the Purlin spacings on the roof and the walls when it gets close to that corner and then we screw o both the roof sheets and the wall sheds for the same Purlin, creating an enormous bracing through the shed.”

anywhere in Australia, with one recent project being around a basketball court at an indigenous community near Uluru.

The third point is the shed’s apex – and Walker says a bolted double bracketing system, along with closing up the Purlin spacings, ensures it is impossible for the wind to pull the shed apart.

Another point of di erence with Now Buildings sheds is an open gable end which avoids knee braces, something which removes di culties in storing tall machinery commonly used on Australian farms.

Its network of builders meant this was a straightforward job, while Walker knows the importance of getting things right the rst time.

“If you send out wrong components to that, and the builders have travelled a long way to build it, it’s a disaster,” he says.

Much of Now Buildings’ success – and the reason why thousands of customers are enjoying their sheds – can be traced back to the fact the company genuinely cares.

“We started this as a family and we

return business from it, and we have.

“Repeat business is very high, referrals are through the roof. We’ve got many hundreds of customers writing into us and thanking us for the quality of the material and also the quality of the service.

“From our point of view, we want to put a product out there 100 per cent of the time that we’re proud of.

“We’re proud of what we do. This is how we wanted to run the company and this is the way we’ve grown our business.”

Now Buildings’ products can be viewed online at https://shed.sale/FFM or calling on 1300 491 839.

The sheds can accommodate multiple pieces of large machinery

High quality materials are used on all sheds

Heritage of strength

Putting durability and value at the forefront has held Mahindra tractors in good stead for many years, and is a philosophy the company is proud of

For Mahindra to become the world’s largest tractor manufacturer by volume of units sold, they are clearly doing something right.

With deep roots in India’s agricultural revolution – which is a major contributing factor towards that global status – the brand is also celebrating 20 years in the Australian market during 2025.

The manufacturer’s history in its homeland dates back more than 75 years, before beginning tractor production in the early 1960s.

Since then, Mahindra has forged a reputation for producing tough, utility models aimed at customers who value having rugged and reliable machinery about all else.

Locally, Mahindra o ers a range of no-nonsense tractors that have appealed to everyone from hobby farmers to gra-

ziers and has built a strong reputation during its two decades in the Australian market.

The brand’s next chapter will be steered in part by Matt Kruger, who joined Mahindra Australia at the end of 2024 as its ag sales manager, bringing considerable experience from the agricultural machinery sector.

Targeted approach

Mahindra’s philosophy is not to take on the largest of Australian broadacre markets, where the tractors can exceed 500hp and be equipped with all the technology needed to handle thousands of hectares.

Instead, the manufacturer has focused on the market up to 90hp, producing tractors that are simple to operate and durable enough to handle

the jobs required by these farmers without hassle.

“There’s some wonderful technology out there that other manufacturers are o ering, but for the market that we’re approaching, sometimes it’s too much and it’s not utilised,” Kruger says.

“We’ve found that customers like Mahindra tractors for their simplicity and price.

“They still can do everything they need to do but with simplicity comes reliability, as you’re not adding on a lot of electrical architecture that can and will pose issues if it’s not well maintained and well cared for.”

Hobby farmers are one of the main markets which Kruger believes Mahindra tractors are popular with, where simplicity and price are two of the main drawcards.

“What we tend to nd in that market is people use them for maybe three or four hours over the weekend and then it may

Images: Mahindra Australia

sit for another month before it gets used again,” he says.

“They’re not racking up the 14 hour days that we would see in the broadacre market, so simplicity and reliability – plus the price point – is what they want.

“These are tractors which you can turn on for a few hours without needing to do much maintenance, turn it o , and then it’s good to go and ready to work for you again next time you jump on.”

The other market which Kruger says has been popular is with graziers, who are looking to pull balers and move hay around.

In this segment, which could best be described as the utility market, he believes Mahindra is “very well priced compared to some of our competitors” along with o ering the ruggedness needed for this type of work.

Mahindra’s Max28 is another tractor which provides ruggedness and versatility

At 80hp, the 7580 is one of Mahindra’s largest local o erings

MACHINERY

Local lineup

While a ordability and simplicity are two of Mahindra’s key goals, it would be doing the manufacturer an injustice to say this is all its tractors have to o er.

As an example – one model within Mahindra’s Australian range is the 4025.

This unit is described as a “great entry point” for customers wanting a step above a compact tractor, and Kruger says it is “the sort of tractor which anyone with a bit of mechanical knowledge could work on” rather than being packed with complex electronics.

Its four-cylinder Mahindra-built engine produces 40hp and is backed up by a 1,600kg li capacity on the three-point hitch.

A simple and strong transmission, robust cast iron chassis and a ordable price are among the examples of Mahindra’s overall philosophy in action.

From there, it is only a small increase in price to the 3650 PST, which increases the technology without sacri cing the brand’s dependable reliability, along with providing a boost in power to a 50hp engine.

“This tractor still has simplicity but is much more re ned and has got some of those creature comforts, which makes it a step up,” Kruger says.

The comfortable operating environment includes a host of standard features such as fully at operator deck, side

shi gear controls, suspended brake and clutch pedals, plenty of legroom, wide formed cushions on the seat, adjustable suspension and armrests, along with a tiltable steering column.

It also o ers a quick hitch design that allows operators to switch from buckets to pallet forks or bale spikes easily and quickly, along with a quick attach design that means the loader can be easily installed and removed with just two pins.

Mahindra’s Australian range is extensive, with various models across the size categories enabling farmers to nd something ideally suited to their needs.

At the top end of its o ering are the 7580 and 7590, which o er 80hp and 90hp respectively and which Kruger believes are best suited to those in the grazier and utility markets.

These are both 4WD tractors which o er ruggedness and performance along with an increased engine capacity to handle the larger jobs.

Strong presence

Mahindra Australia has a strong national presence, with its head o ce in Brisbane backed up by a considerable national dealer network and growing footprint in rural communities.

Having experienced Australian agriculture through a di erent lens, and having recently weighed up the merits of joining Mahindra himself, Kruger is

excited about the brand’s potential and is looking forward to helping it grow during a milestone year and beyond.

“I grew up on a farm and have been running around equipment my entire life basically,” he says.

“I spent more than a decade with another leading manufacturer but was genuinely impressed with the quality of Mahindra and that is why I decided to move.

“I knew that they were the largest tractor manufacturer by volume and units worldwide, which had always impressed me, and I knew they were very well regarded in the Indian market.

“Indian farmers de nitely put the tractors through their paces and I knew that if they survived in that sort of environment, they were guaranteed to be set up for success here in Australia.

“The other thing which really impressed me was the reliability - it’s a top-quality tractor at an a ordable price point.”

Mahindra’s full Australian tractor range can be viewed online at www.mahindraag.com.au

Mahindra’s 3650 PST o ers an increased number of ‘creature comforts’

Hot tip

Getting the good mail on a JCB 532-70 Agri telehandler’s bene ts is already helping one Queensland racecourse make waste management more e cient

As the horses thunder towards the winning post at Sunshine Coast Turf Club during a race meeting, the eyes and minds of those in attendance are xated on cheering their runner towards victory.

Behind the scenes though – as there is at every racecourse around Australia – plenty of work goes unseen to ensure the track and its surrounds are in the best shape possible for all involved, both animal and human.

At Sunshine Coast Turf Club, the recent purchase of a JCB 532-70 Agri telehandler is going to make one of those unglamorous and unappreciated daily tasks much easier and more e cient.

Murray Weeding spent more than two decades as racecourse and facilities manager before moving into a new role last year overseeing infrastructure projects and asset management and has been the

catalyst in the club’s new investment.

“We’re initiating a new waste management system for the stables at the track,” he says.

“At the moment, we basically utilise two 40 litre wheelie bins and you might have 150 or 160 wheelie bins every day that our guys are manually handling, so this is going to bulk handle it.

“We’re going to use the telehandler with 2.8m bulk bins for waste manure, and then with the rotating forks, we will be able to unload into a semi tipper to manage it in bulk.”

Winning endorsement

It is still early days for the JCB 532-70 Agri telehandler at Sunshine Coast Turf Club.

Like many initial purchases, it was a word-of-mouth recommendation that led to the initial enquiry and a good dealer-

ship experience that got the purchase over the line.

“We had some good referrals from other guys who are doing the same sort of work with sawdust,” Weeding says.

“They used JCBs as well and their referral they gave based on the experience they’ve had is that it’s really the one to go for and they found it to be reliable and easy to operate.”

Weeding reached out to his nearest JCB dealer – Wideland Group in Toowoomba –and dealt with branch manager Paul Todd.

Despite being located about 200km away from the dealership, Weeding says Wideland was happy to organise a loan machine for the club to test its suitability.

“Paul was very proactive and provided us with a machine as a loaner which we hired for a couple of weeks and basically got a feel for it,” Weeding says.

Images: Murray Weeding

“They brought that from Toowoomba for us to trial and they went out of their way which is great.

“Our experience has been nothing but positive. Paul and the guys at Wideland were great and the service and back up is strong.”

Trusted design

JCB’s 532-70 Agri telehandler o ers a 150hp (112kW) engine, has a 7m maximum li height and 3,200kg maximum li capacity.

Speci cally designed for the agricultural market, it also provides a top speed of 40km/h for moving quickly between locations where it is required.

The manufacturer has also implemented its new CommandPlus cab to give operators the most comfortable experience possible during long days in the telehandler.

The telehandler will help the racecourse with its waste management system

Sunshine Coast Turf Club bought a JCB 532-70 Agri telehandler

MACHINERY

It o ers a 12 per cent increase in size, 50 per cent reduction in cabin noise and a 14 per cent increase in upward visibility compared to previous iterations, all of which combine to create what JCB describes as a best-in-class cabin.

The telehandler is also tted with JCB’s DieselMAX engine, which has regenerative hydraulics that the manufacturer says harnesses gravitational force to reduce excessive revving of the engine.

Boom end damping improves material retention and makes for a smoother work cycle, while auto bucket control makes it easier for users to fully empty material from a bucket or manure fork via a button on the joystick.

A one-piece fully welded chassis maximises strength and minimises weight, while the boom is mounted low in the chassis for structural rigidity.

Hydraulic hoses are intelligently routed through the boom for maximum protection and to ensure the ultimate strength and durability.

New toy

Since starting its life at the Sunshine Coast Turf Club, the JCB telehandler has

been somewhat of a new toy for those involved in operating it.

As the waste management system will be a vastly new process compared to the previous method, there has been a lot of trialling to work out the most efficient way of implementing it –along with getting users up to speed on the telehandler’s finer points.

to utilise it in other areas and doing other things,” Weeding says.

“We’ve got guys that have a lot of experience operating that type of machinery, so they’ve picked it up fairly quickly and have taken to the telehandler quite well,” Weeding says.

“We’ve been trialling for a little while in terms of how much we’re going to be able to manage in the 2.8m bins and how much weight you can carry.

“We’ve got the trainers all teed up with how they’re going to manage the material in the bins, so we’re very happy.”

Having a telehandler on a racecourse is a new approach, with Weeding saying he is not sure how many other tracks will have the benefit of such a machine for their behind-the-scenes work.

As a result, the JCB telehandler’s core

“We’ve dismantled an old waste handling machine, and we loaded up some scrap steel, so there’s other things around the place.

“We’ve got a forkli on site, but there are times when we will be able to use the telehandler in conjunction or instead of our forkli as well - I think it will be quite a multi-use machine.

“It’s certainly got the makings of being a great assistance in what we’re doing, and as we become more familiar with it and spend more time with it, the guys will turn to it as the go-to machine.”

JCB’s 532-70 Agri telehandler is distributed in Australia by JCB CEA’s extensive dealer network, which includes Wideland Group. To find your nearest outlet visit www.jcbcea.com.au or phone 1300 522 232.

Wheelie bins will be replaced with 2.8m bulk bins thanks to the telehandler

A 3,200kg lift capacity means the Turf Club can benefit from the JCB’s strength

Stronger together

Having experienced the devastation of on-farm natural disasters, Achmea Farm Insurance’s Alison Treston outlines how insurance can help communities rise together

For decades, women across Australia have stood as the backbone of farming communities, shaping our future with grit, determination, and strength.

As a speaker at a recent agricultural conference dedicated to women, I had the privilege to re ect on the resilience, trust, and collaboration that empower women in agriculture; a spirit that has been my guiding principle throughout my 40 year career in insurance.

United values

My story began in North Queensland, in the town of Innisfail, where farming was not just an occupation, it was a way of life.

I was 16 when Cyclone Winifred tore through in 1986, and it shaped me into who I am today. At the time, I worked in a small insurance o ce that became a lifeline for the devastated community.

The devastation wasn’t just about physical damage; it was about fear, loss, and uncertainty.

Those moments showed me that trust and compassion could hold a community together when everything else was falling apart.

That experience sparked my passion for insurance, as I discovered it is about more than paperwork or policies - it’s about people.

Insurance is about being a steady, reliable hand during life’s stormiest moments

and helping to rebuild hope when it feels like there’s none le .

Decades later, whether I’m helping farmers recover a er a cyclone or supporting them through daily unforeseen events, this passion continues to drive me.

For me, insurance is about empowering people and communities to rise stronger together.

Empowering women

Farming has always demanded resilience. But that resilience extends far beyond crops or machinery, it’s about the people who make it all possible.

The women in agriculture, those sitting at the helm of their farms and families, are the beating heart of rural communities.

To every woman balancing the needs of a farm with the responsibilities of running a household, raising children, navigating childcare, or ful lling other caregiving responsibilities - and everything in between

Alison Treston says Achmea Farm Insurance can help farmers recover after natural disasters

Alison Treston is a senior farm insurance specialist with Achmea Farm Insurance, Mackay

FARMING

- your strength is exceptional.

With that strength also comes the reality of unique challenges.

From facing natural disasters to managing the nancial pressures of farming life, it’s clear that having the right support isn’t just helpful but is essential.

Securing your nancial future with tools like insurance is vital.

It means protecting your family’s legacy, preparing for the unexpected, and ensuring your hard work endures through any challenge. Safeguarding your farm is not just about the present, but about ensuring a strong and resilient future for generations to come.

Community organisations are positive examples of how collaboration and solidarity can make a di erence, because together we can achieve more than we ever could alone.

Trusted partnerships

One of the greatest demonstrations of resilience and partnership I’ve witnessed came during Cyclone Debbie, which struck the Bowen region just weeks before tomato farmers were set to harvest.

For many, the devastation felt insurmountable as packing sheds were destroyed, crops were ready, but there was no way to deliver them to market.

At Achmea Farm Insurance, we immediately got to work.

Within weeks, critical infrastructure was restored, which allowed farmers to pack and deliver their produce on time.

This rapid recovery re ected our purpose: keeping farmers farming.

Is your farm fully protected?

Farming is inherently unpredictable.

Whether we face market shi s or weather events such as cyclones and oods, resilience doesn’t mean standing alone. It means leaning on others, planning for tomorrow, and having trusted support in your corner.

As women in agriculture, it’s worth asking - if disaster were to strike tomorrow, would your farm, future and family be fully protected?

If you are unsure, now is the time to act. Protecting your livelihood is more than safeguarding assets; it’s about securing the legacy and determination that de ne your story.

Sustainable future

Having witnessed the devastation of Cyclone Winifred and Debbie, and everything in between, I know that compassion and shared resilience lies at the heart of every farming community. These values help us overcome challenges and build the foundation for a brighter, more sustainable future. We need to continue supporting and empowering ourselves and each other to build stronger farms, families and communities for generations to come.

When we rise together, there’s no challenge we can’t overcome.

Alison says Achmea Farm Insurance’s purpose is keeping farmers farming

Having the right support is essential, Alison says

Quick sticks

Finding more uses for it than originally planned, Rata Equipment’s Power Claw has been a shrewd investment for one Victorian farmer

In Australian agriculture – where farmers o en like to see how new machinery performs for their family or neighbours before investing themselves – these realworld experiences and word-of-mouth recommendations hold a lot of weight.

When Victorian farmer Brad Ellis allowed his brother to borrow his Rata Equipment Power Claw, it proved such a winner that he never received it back.

“We had it for 12 months and I let my brother use it on another property,” he says.

“He wouldn’t let me have it back, so we had to order another one!”

Brad farms about 6,000 acres at Goroke in Victoria’s west Wimmera region, which is predominantly used for mixed cropping but also has some sheep.

His experience with the Power Claw –and that of his brother – has mirrored that of Rata customers across the nation, by discovering far more uses for the product than originally intended at the time of purchase.

Primary purpose

Rata’s Power Claw is designed to be a replacement for a four-in-one bucket, with

the added bonus of being able to securely grip items such as logs and sticks.

Models are available which can attach to tractors, telehandlers and skid steers – with various sizes ensuring farmers can access something which is perfectly suited to their individual needs.

Rata’s willingness to work with farmers in further customising Power Claws, something which Brad’s story will illustrate, means there is no impediment to any farmers experiencing the product’s bene ts.

Brad’s reason for initially purchasing the Power Claw was like many of those buying for the rst time, stemming from a desire to clean up his property more e ciently.

“We’ve always had issues with picking up sticks on the cropping side of things,” he says.

“We needed a faster way to clean up the sticks and branches and we did our research on what we could get.

“We wanted a fork that could push and grab and carry, and we thought this Rata product looked fantastic.

“It’s saved a lot of time picking up sticks.”

Brad says cleaning up sticks was one of the jobs which was o en neglected before

purchasing the Power Claw due to its time-consuming and laborious nature –but not any more.

“We would just sow around them because we couldn’t get all the work done,” he says.

“The sticks were the last thing that got done and we would literally drive around them.

“Now, because you don’t even have to burn them in the paddock any more - you can pick them up and take them away - it’s even quicker again.”

When Brad rst purchased the Power Claw about a year ago, it went straight on to his telehandler and spent an estimated 200 hours cleaning up sticks around the property before the crop even went in.

Since then, it has also spent time on his new telehandler which Brad says has opened even more possibilities.

“It just keeps getting used more and more,” he says.

“It’s always been useful, and it’s being coupled to the telehandler which we think is even better again for reach and manoeuvrability.

“We’ve cleaned up fence lines with it and you can pluck all the posts up.

“There are just uses all the time – picking up concrete or stu you couldn’t li manually. It can pick up anything you can think of.”

Technical side

In order to complete the types of jobs which Brad describes, the Power Claw needs to be a quality product which is

strong and durable enough to handle Australian conditions.

Thanks to numerous carefully considered design features, this is not even a question for the Power Claw.

Its tines are made from AR450 abrasion resistant steel, which provides maximum strength and durability, while the tines are also braced to prevent and splaying and

Customising the Power Claw was easy for Brad Ellis

Brad Ellis has attached his Power Claw to a telehandler

MACHINERY

interlocking to ensure excellent grip and clamping force.

It also features powerful hydraulic rams located at the rear of the grapple, along with high quality hosing that is also carefully located to be out of harm’s way and ensures full protection.

All of the unit’s bushes and high tensile and greaseable pins are heavy duty, with the main pivots being 35mm in diameter and supported by extra bushes.

Designed as a true multi-tasker, Rata’s Power Claw is available in three broad models.

The smallest of these is the compact Power Claw, which is 1.35m wide and which Rata says is suited for tractors between 25-45hp and small, stand-on skid steers.

Rata’s mid-range Power Claw is suited to tractors between 45-75hp, skid steers up to 2.5 tonnes, and small loaders.

This is available in two di erent widths

than 2.5 tonnes, along with telehandlers and wheeled loaders.

Rata o ers several choices in this category, with widths available between 1.6m and 2.6m as standard.

These range in weight from 439kg up to 659kg, although Rata says the largest of these is best used with tractors over 120hp.

Top experience

While these sizes and models make up the o -the-shelf range available, Rata has also demonstrated a willingness to work with farmers to customise the Power Claw to unique needs.

At a recent eld day in Victoria, for example, Rata displayed a custom-made 3.4m wide Power Claw which represents an 80cm width increase above what it usually o ers.

Individual customisation is not just limited to size though, as Brad can attest to.

When it came time to get the second

loader, while he was interested in having some small stands on the back to help stand the Power Claw up whenever he took it o one machine.

To his pleasant surprise, these requests were met with a very favourable response.

“We wondered if it was possible to customise the fork. We didn’t think they would but we thought we’d ask the ques tion and so we rang up,” Brad says.

“The answer was ‘not a problem’ which was fantastic.

“Next thing we got the email of the new drawings; we made another couple of little changes and then ordered it.

“I highly recommend it, especially if you want it custom-made, custom-sized or with custom-width tines – Rata has been very easy to deal with.”

Rata’s full product range – including the Power Claw – can be viewed online at www.rataequipment.com

Brad has also been able to comfortably pick up large logs

Pumps to order

Veldonas o ers customised pump systems, which can be paired with technological control equipment, for a wide variety of farming needs

It’s o en said that no two farming operations are ever the same, and Melbourne-based pump supplier and water management equipment business Veldonas knows this all too well.

A large portion of its customers come from the agricultural sector, and while Veldonas’ headquarters are in the western suburb of Sunshine, it serves farmers all over the country, with varying climates.

This means its customers can o en have di erent needs, with custom-built solutions being of the highest importance.

It’s why Veldonas builds custom units and systems to order, ensuring it works accordingly to speci c requests of its clients.

“Every job is di erent, so we can assist our customers in understanding their requirements,” Veldonas director Gatis Gregors says.

“We’ll ask questions about what ow rates and discharge arrangements they have, including pressures, and then we can come up with a solution.”

Veldonas o en receives enquiries from farmers about various types of equipment

including diesel and electric pump sets, diesel engines, as well as repower units, to name a few.

Spare parts are also an o en-hot commodity, with Veldonas supplying components for engines, generator sets, its wide range of pump systems and ttings

for pump sets, such as discharge hoses, suction hoses, manifolds, bends, pipes, and foot valves.

The importance of building to speci c requirements is not understated.

“A variety of factors can dictate the type of equipment that would be best suited to

Veldonas can build to specific customer requirements

Images: Veldonas

Veldonas can supply spare parts for generators, engines and its wide range of pump systems

the customer,” Gregors says.

“There are things like the discharge, how far it must be pumped through, what sort of size pipe it must be pumped through, and what distance it must be pumped.”

Custom builds

With close to three decades of experience, Veldonas can build solutions for a variety of complex tasks.

“For long distances, say four or ve kilometres through small pipe – we normally build helical rotor pumps as a particular solution,” Gregors says.

“We can o er volume transfer pumps from four to 36 inches. These are high volume and are discharged over a very short distance.”

Of the varying types of pumps Veldonas o ers, Gregors says farmers o en require irrigation, frost control, e uent, re control and pressure systems.

This can be complemented by Veldonas’ control equipment, which again can di er depending on the customer’s requirements.

Greater control

For diesel equipment, Gregors says control equipment can include an oil and temperature watchdog, which protects the engine from lower pressure and high temperature, while other units may require timing, automatic start/stop and phone start/stop systems.

This ability enables customers to remotely operate their equipment and have greater control of its operation –something Gregors says can be particularly important for farmers in bush re season when physical access is limited.

“Farmers can have a re control pump set in Victoria and can start and stop it from other states if a re is encroaching on their property,” Gregors says.

“Our re control units are essential for farmers – they have been able to protect properties and buildings from damage.

“We o en supply units that are connected with existing water sources on a farm to a unit that can actually distribute water around building assets, like the farmhouse itself, but also equipment sheds, and they protect farm assets.”

Control equipment technology isn’t limited to just re control pumps though. Instead, a variety of technologies can be integrated onto Veldonas’ pump systems.

Combatting frost

Frost control pumps, spreading water to combat frost conditions, are another o ering that can bene t from this.

“It’s counterintuitive in that you’d expect pumping water on to frost conditions would cause it to freeze, but it actually doesn’t,” Gregors says.

“If you pump water on to crops and so on, when there are frost conditions, it stops frost from forming on the crops.”

Gregors adds farmers can pair frost control pumps with timer units to pump water through an irrigation system when frost is anticipated.

“The pump will operate in the period of time you would expect the frost to exist and will turn itself o a er the time designated,” he says.

“During a radiation frost, crops are continuously sprayed with water above the canopy, that turns to ice. The freezing process releases latent heat which creates a micro climate and warms the air near the trees. For every 1 gram of water, 80 calories of energy is released. In addition, a thin layer of ice is created on the leaves that continually forms and melts so that water inside the plant cells will not freeze and the air surrounding the plant will not drop signi cantly below freezing point.”

Solar pumps are also o ered, including the pump set, solar panels and the control equipment.

Irrigation pumps

Irrigation is another key speciality of the business, designing units for farmers wanting to distribute water through electric and diesel driven pumps.

“We o er irrigation units, so in relation to irrigation pumps, we can combine the pump with irrigators,” Gregors says.

“We can supply packages that allow people to pump water and also distribute it, whether it’s sprinkler units, hard hose or so hose irrigators, and pivots.”

E luent pumps

For dairy farmers, e uent is o en

required to be discharged from farms either physically or by being pumped into the eld.

This can be achieved through Veldonas’ e uent pumps, which Gregors says macerate the e uent that comes from cows and is o en stored in ponds.

“By macerating the material with a chopper device that cuts it all up, the e uent can be distributed by irrigation equipment, onto the farm,” Gregors says.

“Dairy farms are normally required to have a system like that or have the capacity to have their e uent removed.

“These pumps are fairly sophisticated, but we’ve been supplying them for a good 30 years, and they’ve been very popular with our customers.”

Diesel engines

In addition to its various pumps, Veldonas o ers diesel engines for various types of farm equipment, including generators, pump sets and even tractors.

This can come in the form of new, as well as second-hand options. Supporting many di erent brands, Gregors says the second-hand engines are imported from Japan and have been used for a low number of hours.

With many farmers being conscious of their carbon emissions, Gregors adds Veldonas’ new engines produce lower greenhouse gas emissions than other options and its second-hand options can be considered carbon neutral.

“By choosing a second-hand engine, customers are reusing a piece of equipment, rather than it being remanufactured, so it’s a recycled piece of equipment in its second life,” he says.

“That’s something to consider in terms of greenhouse emissions, because they’re reused and have got low hours.”

For more information on Veldonas’ o ering, visit veldonas.com.au or call 03 9312 0888.

The business services farmers across Australia from its headquarters in Sunshine, Melbourne

Leading the pack

Victorian farmer Nick Brain is already reaping the bene ts of having a complete lighting package from Wattz on his tractor

One of the English language’s most famous idioms is that ‘the early bird gets the worm’.

That logic can also apply to farming, where early adopters of new products and technology are able to experience its bene ts sooner than others who prefer to sit back and observe initially.

For Victorian farmer Nick Brain, who is based near Lake Bolac in the state’s southwest, choosing to be an early bird is now something which will not carry the impediment of needing to work in challenging light conditions.

Brain is one of the rst farmers in

Australia to have a full set of new lights from Wattz, a company which recently launched with a suite of products designed to considerably increase the quality of lighting output available for farmers compared to factory- tted options.

Brain uses a 2014 Claas tractor on his farm and has had all its factory lights replaced with a package from Wattz.

His endorsement of the replacements is as glowing as the lights themselves.

“They’ve been unreal,” he says.

“Compared to what the tractor had, it’s chalk and cheese. You can’t compare how

good the new ones are compared to the old ones.

“There is a massive contrast in the di erence - it’s ridiculous actually.”

Fresh perspective

The complete t out involved replacing lights at the front of the tractor, roof line at both the front and back, in front of the grille, mud guards at the back, and on the steps on each side of the tractor.

It was an extensive replacement of the light package, and one which Brain is already thankful for.

Wattz founder and Victorian farmer Andre Meyer

Images: Wattz

By adding more powerful lights to the tractor, it rstly enables work to be done earlier in the morning or late at night, while also allowing operators to have increased safety and comfort thanks to the superior vision.

“You’re also not straining your eyes with these new lights,” Brain says.

“Everyone nds if your lights are a bit dim, then as the day starts to drag on, you seem to get tired quite quickly.

“I think it just gives you so much better awareness of what’s going on as well because with the lights we had, you couldn’t see out the side very far when it is dark.

“You could see ahead and at the back, but you couldn’t see out the side so it’s nice to have much better vision all the way around the tractor.

“This also means we’re able to keep an eye on everything a lot better.

“We haven’t done a heap of night work with the new lights as of yet, but the little bit we have done has been bloody good.”

Here to stay

Like Brain, Wattz founder Andre Meyer is a Victorian farmer.

He understands what Australian farmers need and started the company earlier this year a er spotting a gap in the market for high-quality LED machinery lights.

They are designed as a ‘plug and play’ solution for farmers which are easy to install and can signi cantly increase the

per cent.

The company also has the backing of experienced European manufacturer Crawer, whose products form the core of Wattz’s range.

Wattz’s development team – which includes Meyer in a hands-on role – is made up of farmers who understand the real-world needs of those working in the machinery it caters for.

Tractors and harvesters are the machines where Meyer expects the lights to be most popular, however Wattz can also supply lights for other products such as sprayers and implements.

Tailored lights are available for not only an extensive list of brands, but also for speci c models within them.

This means a farmer can purchase a set of lights from Wattz knowing it will be perfectly suited to their individual machine, tting into the pre-existing brackets and not signi cantly alter the factory look.

Wattz’s website also includes a 3D Congurator where farmers can select their machine model and be guided as to which products are most suited.

Connecting farmers with their ideal product and making them simple to install and operate is a large part of Wattz’s philosophy, but this is also backed up by ensuring its lights are durable enough to handle Australia’s tough conditions.

standard brightness available by up to 400

Every factory fitted light was replaced on his tractor

Brain says extra vision around the side of his tractor has been a big benefit

Special coverings on its sprayer lights protect them from the chemicals involved in spraying, Meyer says, while the chips in all Wattz lights are CISPR Class 4 or higher which eliminates the chance of radio interference.

Plenty of science has gone into the design of each light as well, Meyer says, with multiple beam angle options available to enable farmers to have something which suits their priorities.

These options include having better visibility around the side of the tractor - as Brain does - or being able to see further into the distance for jobs such as mowing.

Meyer also says the Wattz light packages are designed to be a ordable.

He cites one example from a quote he received for upgrading a tractor’s standard halogen to LED while previously working as a farm manager, adding that Wattz can provide “much better lights for half the price” compared to what was available then.

Building rapport

The initial meeting between Brain and Meyer occurred by chance.

Brain describes himself as a fairly active

user of Facebook groups devoted to cropping and received a “random message” one day from Meyer.

“He just sent me a message out of the blue saying who he was and what he was going to do with Wattz – that’s how it all started,” Brain says.

That initial message, which also shows the power of networking within Australia’s agricultural community, resulted in Brain’s Claas tractor being tted out with the complete Wattz lighting package.

While Wattz may still be a new player in the Australian market, they already have at least one dyed-in-the-wool fan in Brain.

He says he intends to get his other machines kitted out with Wattz lighting packages, based on both the quality of product and his customer experience.

“Andre is just a great guy as well - some people who you run into are not genuine but he’s just one of those genuinely good fellas,” Brain says.

“It was just so easy to deal with him and communicate with him.

“Once I met him, I thought ‘I hope this goes well for him’ because he’s just a really nice guy and he’s trying to do something good.

“I’m de nitely going to order another set of lights for my sprayer and I would order a set for my telehandler as well - no questions asked.”

The full range of Wattz products, along with its 3D Configurator, can be viewed online at www.wattz.com.au

The lights enable night work to be done with better vision

Brain says extra vision around the side of his tractor has been a big benefit

Award winner

Antonio Carraro’s Tony 8900 R tractor combines several of the manufacturer’s most popular features and has already been recognised with an international award

Providing specialised tractors for orchardists has long been Antonio Carraro’s point of di erence, with a range of targeted features designed for the unique needs of that sector.

Several of those most popular features

– which have been re ned over time – combine to create the Italian manufacturer’s Tony 8900 R tractor.

It has already caught the eye on an

international scale too, with one of its con gurations being named 2025 Tractor of the Year in the specialised category by European judges at the EIMA trade show.

That winning tractor was the Tony 8900 TRG, which o ers bigger rear wheels as its point of di erence from other con gurations, with the others being the standard (8900 TR), articulated narrow (8900 SR) and wider wheelbase (8900 TTR).

Arguably the biggest feature of the Tony 8900 R range is its hydrostatic transmission.

This helps to make it extremely safe and responsive during operation, maintaining optimal speeds during all uses.

The transmission is constantly engaged and all the engine’s resources are fully utilised without interruption, meaning that the tractor’s forward movement is always uid, even during a restart or in changes of speed and slope.

The absence of a clutch pedal makes operation smoother and more e cient,

Images: Antonio Carraro

Antonio Carraro produces several Tony tractor models

The tractors are designed for what orchardists need

while also eliminating any chance of the tractor moving involuntarily.

“It is an extremely safe tractor for oper ators as if they do not accelerate, then the tractor is hydraulically locked,” Antonio Carraro Australia national sales manager Marco Corra says.

“It comes with a 50 litre per minute pump and very good set of hydraulics, which is extendable to 11 couplings at the back if paired with the electro proportion al joystick.

“The electro proportional joystick function also allows the operator to switch ranges, switch direction, set cruise control and memory speed and RPM directly from the joystick as well as the basics of lowering and li ing the three-point linkage and give oil to any couplings of the machine.”

in its model number – is the reversible driving system.

Another signi cant feature of the Tony 8900R range – and the reason for the R

Also present on some of the manufacturer’s other tractors, this unique system allows operators to rotate the driving position 180 degrees and work equally

comfortably with front or rear implements.

According to Corra, the simplicity of driving the Tony 8900R is a particular bene t for orchardists as it allows them to have extra focus on the implements they are working with.

“This tractor requires very little attention from the operator to drive within the parameters that they want to drive, so an orchardist is able to focus more on the details of the attachment operation,” he says.

“If you have thousands of trees which

you are pruning or cultivating and want to do a very good job, you’re detailing every individual tree according to its needs, so you are constantly adjusting the attachment.

“If the operators are focusing too much attention on to the gears of the tractor or

the other aspects of driving, they’re going to leave behind the important aspects of the orchard which are the trees or the soil.

“Because this tractor is so intelligent, it can maintain the power of the attachment constantly and drive at the determined speed, which is why people buy this type of tractor.”

Feature packed

Another aspect which shows the Tony 8900R’s versatility is the di erent size con gurations available.

At its narrowest, the SR model can be just 1.05m wide and t inside the narrowest of rows, while the widest of the models - the wider wheelbase TTR - can go up to 1.9m wide.

It also maintains low soil compaction, thanks in part to its relatively low weight which Corra says is approximately 1.5 tonnes lighter than other tractors in the same size category.

This is particularly important for younger orchards, he says, where root expansion is crucial during the rst two to three years a er the trees are planted.

It is a 110hp tractor that has a 2,900kg rear li capacity and 1,200kg front li capacity – providing enough strength to handle the implements required by the sector.

It has similarities to two other tractors within Antonio Carraro’s stable.

One of these is the Mach 4 Tony, which is a similar concept in many ways but has tracks instead of wheels.

The other is the 7600 In nity, which has

The driving system can rotate 180 degrees when needed

Working in narrow spaces is one strength of Antonio Carraro’s range

a smaller hydrostatic unit but otherwise shares many commonalities.

When the Tony 8900 TRG was announced as the best specialised tractor by European journalists during the EIMA event, several other areas were highlighted including its “exceptional design, unparalleled versatility, and superior performance”.

Its turning radius of just 2.3m and narrow overall width were emphasised, along with the tractor’s comfortable and quiet cabin.

“Whether it’s integrated precision farming systems or additional equipment, the Tony 8900 TRG proves to be a cutting-edge solution for modern specialised agriculture,” the award jury said.

“In the end, the jury’s choice was clear: the Antonio Carraro Tony 8900 TRG is the best in its category for its combination of comfort, agility, and versatility, perfectly responding to the unique challenges of specialised farming.”

Antonio Carraro’s full range can be viewed online at www.antoniocarraro.it/au

A narrow design makes it ideal for working in tight rows

Double delight

McCormick’s D-MAX 125 and G-MAX 165 tractors are working in harmony for one horticulture grower

For New South Wales farmer James Portelli, having two di erent sized McCormick tractors is covering the varying needs of his daily operations.

Portelli Farms is based at Glossodia, north-west of Sydney, and is an established horticulture business which grows the likes of cauli ower, lettuce and spinach.

The tractors James relies on during harvest time are the pair of McCormicks, which were purchased from Australian distributor Clark Equipment.

His trusty duo – which have been on the farm for about three years – are the D-MAX 125 and G-MAX 165.

These o er 120hp (89kW) and 160hp (119kW) respectively, which provides versatility for them to be paired with di erent attachments thanks to the impressive rear li capacities of both.

“With the G-MAX 165, we use it on an eight-pallet harvester and we harvest cauli owers and lettuce with it, and we do

spinach as well.

“We pull a 120-inch rotary hoe as well and we bed shape and rip with a four-tine ripper.

“The D-MAX has a 70-inch, and we harvest with the D-MAX with a double fork at the back as it’s a little bit smaller and a little bit lower.

“The main di erence for us is that one tractor pulls a big harvester, and the other one just has a double fork at the back.”

Feature packed

Italian-made McCormick tractors have become a popular choice on Australian farms for their durability, strength and ability to handle general purpose needs –along with the ability to handle an array of attachments of various sizes.

Simplicity is another key feature of the range, with the manufacturer preferring to include simple and proven operation over complex electronics – something which Clark Equipment says has reso -

nated with many Australian customers including Portelli.

The smaller of Portelli’s two tractors – the D-MAX 125 – o ers a 120hp (89kW) four-cylinder Iveco turbo engine, along with a 4,500kg rear li capacity and 48 x 16 power shuttle transmission.

The D-MAX 125 is available in full cabin con guration, with Portelli’s tractor including an air-conditioned cabin with air suspension seat and comfortable driving position with conveniently located controls.

A creeper mode is o ered as standard on the D-MAX 125, enabling the tractor to move as slowly as 400m per hour and this is something which Portelli highlights as a huge bene t for his operation. It also has three sets of rear hydraulic outlets and a 110L/min high ow hydraulic pump.

The larger G-MAX 165 o ers the same ow rate but has ve sets of rear hydraulic pumps, along with a 54 x 18 power shuttle transmission and 160hp (119kW).

Paul, Joe, Nathan and James Portelli with the G-MAX 165, the larger of the two tractors

MACHINERY

The D-MAX 125 has helped Portelli Farms with their lettuce growing

Described by McCormick as “a force to be reckoned with”, it is also “built and engineered to handle the most challenging demands of modern farming with ease and in complete safety.”

There is also an 8,400kg rear li capacity, enabling the G-MAX 165 to handle demanding implements.

Di erential lock, wet disc brakes, four wheel-drive and 55-degree steering angle help to increase traction and manoeuvrability of the tractor.

It also o ers a 500mm ground clearance, which is another feature Portelli says has been important during the G-MAX 165’s daily work.

“The G-MAX is a big tractor with good clearance which means we can go over the crops without damaging them,” he says.

“The D-MAX has slow creepers and while we’re picking crops in reverse, the tractor is pushing towards us, so we’re behind the tractor.

“If we can’t keep up, then the tractor could potentially run us over – so the slower they are, the more time we have to keep up to speed with picking.

“They’re both very good tractors and they have the old-fashioned gears, so they don’t give us any trouble.”

Superb service

McCormick tractors are distributed in Australia by Clark Equipment, which has a strong network of branches around the country to o er extensive a er-sales support and parts.

Portelli had never owned a McCormick tractor prior to the purchase of his D-MAX 125 and G-MAX 165, but the decision to approach Clark Equipment – and specically sales representative Aaron Becro – has proven to be the start of a long-term business relationship.

“We really loved Aaron – he was very easy and good to deal with,” Portelli says.

“He never lied to us and he was always there if we needed him for whatever reason.

“We had never dealt with Aaron before, but since then we’ve also bought two zero-turn lawn mowers, we bought two fertiliser bins and I bought a set of wheels o him for another tractor we have.

“If we would ever buy another tractorand what we needed at the time suited us size wise and in terms of wheels, speed, creepers and clearance like these ones have - we would de nitely go for McCormick again.”

The full McCormick tractor range can be viewed at www.clarkfarmequipment.com.au

Images: Clark Equipment

FARMING

New approach

Virtual fencing will be legalised in New South Wales and Victoria, enabling farmers to create internal boundaries and monitor the health of cattle

The New South Wales and Victorian governments have each announced that new regulations will be prepared to legalise virtual stock fencing across both states, providing landholders with a new e ective way of herding cattle.

Virtual fencing is used to contain cattle without the need for physical internal fencing, instead using devices such as neck bands or collars that use GPS technology and sensory cues to manage their movement.

These devices can also monitor the activity, health and welfare of cattle.

Both state governments have engaged with key stakeholders and animal welfare organisations, with regulations set to be nalised by the end of the year.

NSW and Victoria will join the many other states nationally which have legalised virtual fencing and are already using the technology, including Queensland, Northern Territory, Western Australia and Tasmania.

NSW agriculture minister Tara Moriarty says the decision came a er listening to

the farming industry.

“These changes seek to reduce costs for farming and to enable agile paddock formation across land holdings to meet the needs of farmers while also protecting the welfare of cattle,” Moriarty says.

“The NSW government will work with both industry and animal welfare groups to ensure we get the right balance for delivering virtual fencing on farms.”

Victorian agriculture minister Ros Spence adds the state’s farmers have been looking to use this technology to improve productivity and safety.

“We’re making decisions to ensure farmers have the best technology up to date,” Spence says.

“It is critical that we have appropriate safeguards in place to protect animal welfare, while enabling innovation on farms and these new regulations will provide a framework to achieve this.”

Agriculture Victoria’s Ellinbank SmartFarm in Gippsland has been trialling the virtual fencing technology of New Zealand-based company Halter since

July 2024, with research continuing to take place until June 30 this year, giving Victorian farmers the chance to experience rst-hand this new technology close to home.

During the trial, dairy cattle at the SmartFarm have been tted with solar powered smart collars that use electronic cues to contain the animals within a virtual fence and guide them to areas of the farm via a mobile phone app. It also allows farmers to monitor their cows’ location, health and reproductive status.

When the regulations come into place, NSW and Victorian farmers will no longer need to construct new or maintain existing fencing.

Halter has already provided many Australian farmers and farming businesses with its virtual fencing technology, including Tasmanian-based Woodrising Dairies.

In the field

Woodrising’s farm manager Troy Ainslie says the technology has brought a host of bene ts, including increased safety when

getting in the paddock, easier grazing management and the ability to monitor mating season.

“Halter’s smart collar virtual fencing technology has given us more control with much less work required,” he says.

“Everything is controlled on the Halter app, so we can move the cows around, set virtual boundary fences, change herds and change what mob the cows are in – all remotely.”

As the type of technology is introduced, both governments say they will ensure necessary safeguards for animal welfare, biosecurity and public safety are in place.

NSW Farmers animal welfare committee chair Rob McIntosh says the announcement to legalise virtual fencing was a sign of positive change on the horizon for many farmers.

“Across Australia and even the world, farmers are already making the most of virtual fencing, and it’s about time we do the same,” he says.

“This technology can save lives by helping move livestock to safe areas in oods,

res or other natural disasters, without putting humans or animals at risk.

“It can also help reduce fencing costs, control noxious weeds and help with a whole other host of things on-farm – there’s almost no boundaries to what this technology can do.”

McIntosh adds regulations must be introduced swi ly to ensure the technology could be rolled out, as it could also soon be extended for use on other livestock.

“These fences are a game changer for farmers, and we are excited about the opportunities they provide for livestock management,” he says.

“Enabling us to use this technology with cattle is a real leap forward, and we hope that the technology can be developed and rolled out for use with other livestock in the future.

“Tools like this will unlock productivity gains for our industry, so we can put more homegrown food on Aussie tables, more o en.”

New Zealand-based company Halter has provided many Australian farmers with its virtual fencing technology. Image: Halter

Woodrising Dairies farm manager

Troy Ainslie says the technology o ers many benefits. Image: Oscar Sloane Photography

Factors combine

Tractor sales dropped across the country in April due to several factors, the Tractor and Machinery Association says, with Western Australia the only state to see a rise

Activity in the tractor sales market was signi cantly down during April, with less than 800 tractors sold across the nation.

New South Wales was also down 13 per cent for the month and remains 8 per cent behind on a year-to-date basis.

This was 13 per cent down on April 2024’s numbers and puts the year-to-date gure at around 9 per cent below the same point last year.

There were a few factors contributing to this.

One was the extended Easter break which incorporated ANZAC Day and impacted delivery schedules.

Another was the country being in the throes of a federal election, which seems to give people reason to pause every time this occurs, while the dry conditions in the south-eastern states of Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania also had an impact.

Underlying order inquiry rates remain solid, which gives rise to a level of optimism that the market will continue to improve.

However with the general uncertainty surrounding the current federal election cycle, combined with the impact of tari s being imposed in the United States, one cannot be certain that activity will not slip back here in Australia.

Victoria was again considerably down o the back of dry parts of the state, this time by 33 per cent compared to April 2024, and remains 18 per cent below the same time last year.

Tasmania and South Australia are doing it tough with SA down 14 per cent on last year and Tasmania behind 13 per cent, while the Northern Territory is also behind by the same amount.

Western Australia was the one state to enjoy another solid boost, being up 21 per cent for the month and is now 3 per cent ahead for the year to date.

Sales of all machinery categories were down for the month.

The under 40hp (under 30kw) range was down 8 per cent during April but remains 6 per cent ahead for the year to date.

Looking around the nation, Queensland experienced a drop of 7.5 per cent in the month to be 4.4 per cent behind for the year to date.

The 40hp to 100 hp (30-75kw) range was down 6 per cent for the month and remains 5 per cent down for the year to date, while the 100hp to 200hp (75-150 kw) range was down 19 per cent compared to April 2024 and remains 9 per cent behind for the year to date.

The large 200hp plus (150kw plus) range continues to struggle, down another 22 per cent this month, to be 27 per

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

cent behind for the year so far.

Combine harvester sales remain subdued and expectations are that the full year result may be around the 700 unit mark, a gure which is well below the recent highs seen during the Instant Asset Write O years.

Baler sales continue to struggle, down another 40 per cent for the month to be 34 per cent behind for the year to date, while the sale of out-front mowers has dried up considerably in what is considerably is proving to be a very tough market, with April’s gures down another 19 per cent on the same time last year.

As previously mentioned, the TMA annual conference is scheduled to be held in Melbourne this year on July 24. The full lineup of speakers will be released shortly, and tickets will go on sale soon.

This promises to be another great event, and the TMA looks forward to welcoming another strong crowd.

A number of factors contributed to lower tractor sales during April, the TMA says.

OPINION

Wider horizons

A new addition to the WAFarmers team has CEO Trevor Whittington pondering what can be done to attract migrants to regional Australia

Western Australia has once again recorded the fastest population growth in the country, adding 72,600 people in the year to September 2024.

To put that into perspective: if every one of those new residents moved into the 200 towns across the Wheatbelt’s 42 shires, it would more than double the population of every town.

Yet, on a recent drive across the Wheatbelt, cutting through multiple towns, I didn’t see a single new house being built.

Meanwhile, in Perth’s outer suburbs, acre upon acre of subdivisions are being carved out of sand dunes, with new houses going up at speed.

It begs the question: a er eight years in power - and now four more aheadwhat has the State Government actually achieved in terms of growing the regional population?

Outside the trendy Margaret River–Busselton–Dunsborough triangle, the answer seems to be: not much.

For the 200 people arriving in WA each day, all roads lead to Perth.

Some of the 446,000 migrants who arrived in Australia in 2023–24 - or the record 739,000 the year before - have ended up in the west, but for the vast majority, our national immigration pattern remains unchanged: most land in Sydney or Melbourne and rarely venture more than 50km west of the CBDs.

Can you blame them for sticking with what they know? Why would they choose to move to a rural town and work in agriculture or mining? Why not stay in the city,

drive an Uber, or wait for a cushy government job?

It wasn’t always this way. My Italian father-in-law arrived in Australia in the 1950s as a 15-year-old with no English.

He went bush, started at the bottom as a labourer, learned a trade, and became a respected builder and community leader in a country town. That was once the migrant success story. Today, state and federal governments seem laser-focused on expanding our already sprawling cities instead of fostering regional development.

Look at recent election results - Labor lost in Albany, Geraldton, and Kalgoorlie, su ering signi cant swings well above the metro average.

That tells you the bush is fed up with the government’s direction.

Meanwhile, Perth’s roads are bumper-to-bumper, and the government’s grand plan is to keep pouring billions into metro rail lines into the CBD - where fewer and fewer people actually work. It’s a stunning example of a government with no real vision for regional development.

Part of the problem is that new migrants simply have no clue how vast Western Australia is or what opportunities lie outside Perth.

Take Omika Upadhayay for example, who now works at WAFarmers.

She has a degree in agriculture from Purbanchal University in Nepal but had been in Australia for three months without stepping outside the city.

She actively sought out job opportunities, persistently emailing me with ques-

tions about WA and our ag sector until we took her under our wing.

In just three weeks, she learned more about regional Australia than most of the migrants who arrived over the past two years probably ever will.

This raises an obvious question - why isn’t the government doing more to direct new arrivals into the regions?

Most don’t have jobs, homes, or family ties in the cities. If they’re desperate for a passport, why not make regional work a condition of their visa?

Trevor Whittington is CEO of WAFarmers

Omika Upadhayay has moved to WA from Nepal. Image: WAFarmers

Whittington

Getting migrants to think beyond inner city Melbourne and Sydney is crucial, Whittington says. Image: Rafael Ben-Ari/stock.adobe.com

The bleeding hearts will say that’s unfair, but if the government can lock us in our homes during COVID or force backpackers to pick fruit, surely it can o er fast-tracked residency and citizenship in exchange for time spent working in regional Australia.

We used to do this with graduate teachers but it was scrapped in 1987 with claims that it was unfair to make young teachers start in the bush - but was it really unfair, or was it more unfair to the rural schools and communities that now struggle to attract teachers, police, and nurses?

The result is clear - no one wants to live in the bush. If we won’t send our own graduates, and won’t send our migrants, we’re e ectively giving up on regional Australia.

Soon, we’ll be a nation where 3.5 million migrants arrive over 25 years - and none of them even dream of owning a caravan or going swagging in the bush.

Few will ever set foot beyond the city limits. They won’t know a thing about Australia’s history, bushrangers, folk songs, early explorers, or the fact this country was built on the sheep’s back.

The solution isn’t just rewriting the pledge at citizenship ceremonies.

It’s about ensuring that when migrants arrive, they’re pointed towards regional Australia - not just Sydney or Melbourne.

Put those IT skills, or whatever got them into the country, to use in the bush.

Let them experience the real Australia rst - then they can return to the city if they choose. But at least they’ll have an appreciation for the country and its culture.

In the meantime, I’ll keep schooling Omika on agriculture and politics, while trying to convince her husband to take his IT skills and strike out as a precision systems specialist in the bush.

With seeding underway, he’d be snapped up by a machinery dealer or could hang out his shingle as a GPS tech. Omika, meanwhile, is already putting her ag degree to work. Whatever they end up doing, they’re exactly the kind of people we need - those who go looking for a job, and keep an open mind about where in the state they’re willing to live and work. Wouldn’t that be a better way to build the Australia of the future?

Let’s hope both sides of politics joins the dots and takes a policy on linking migration to regional development.

Rocky River Ag Services

70ftAirDrill,12"spacing,c/wdoubleshootairkit, Rootbootpoints,hydtynes,p/wheels.51257. TA1199729. $216,700

50ft,10"spacing,c/wsinglesowingkit,Agmaster boots/points,KnuckeyP/wheelsystem.51182. TA1259841. $143,000

Events Calendar

Here are upcoming eld day and agricultural events for 2025. Information was current as of going to press.

Ag-Grow Field DaysEmerald, Qld

Ag-Grow dates back to 1989, servicing central Queensland with some of the best the agriculture and mining sectors. Attracting over 1,500 companies and crowds in excess of 28,000 visitors, Ag-Grow is one of Australia’s largest field days.

When: June 25-27, 2025 More info: www.aggrow.com.au

Alice Springs ShowAlice Springs, NT

Started in 1960, the Alice Springs Show aims to promote, encourage and advocate for the development of agricultural, pastoral, horticultural, viticultural, commercial, industrial, cultural, handicra , artistic and tourism pursuits in Central Australia. When: July 4-5, 2025 More info: alicespringsshow.com.au

Mudgee Small Farm Field Days - Mudgee, NSW

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

When: July 11-12, 2025 More info: www.mudgeefielddays.com.au

Australian Sheep and Wool Show - Bendigo, Vic

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

When: July 18-20, 2025 More info: www.sheepshow.com

National Renewables in Agriculture Conference and Expo - Bendigo, Vic

With consumers demanding lowercarbon products and farmers facing rising energy costs, the integration of solar, bioenergy, renewable diesel and electric machinery is no longer a vision of the future—it’s happening now. These innovations and more will take centre stage for the first time in Victoria with the National Renewables in Agriculture Conference 2025, with sessions on a range of topics.

When: July 23, 2025

More info: www. renewablesinagconference.com.au

Tractor and Machinery Association ConferenceMelbourne, Vic

Under the theme “Are We Future Ready?”, this year’s TMA conference at Hyatt Place Essendon Fields addresses the urgent question facing Australia’s agricultural machinery sector as it adapts to accelerating technological, environmental, and economic change. With an agenda focused on

bold thinking and real-world solutions, the conference will explore everything from digital disruption and data-driven farming to machinery trends and the mental health of rural communities.

When: July 24, 2025

More info: www.tma.asn au/2025-annual-conference

FutureAg ExpoMelbourne, Vic

In its second year, the FutureAg Expo will bring together exhibitors with cutting-edge agritech solutions – from precision farming to AI-powered analytics and robotic automation. With interactive demonstrations, expertled panels and presentations and many networking opportunities, FutureAg 2025 will be a ground-breaking event.

When: August 6-8, 2025

More info: www.futureagexpo.com.au

Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) –Brisbane, Qld

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

When: August 9-17, 2025

More info: www.ekka.com.au

AgQuip Field DaysGunnedah, NSW

Arguably one of the biggest eld days on the Australian calendar, AgQuip has been

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

When: August 19-21, 2025

More info: www.acmruralevents.com.au/agquip

Dowerin Field DaysDowerin, WA

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

When: August 27-28, 2025

More info: www.dowerin elddays.com.au

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

More than a line-up of products for sale, the AgriShow Small Farms & Field Day Expo is a space for people involved in all aspects of farming to get together in a community

atmosphere. The event features education and demonstrations of farming machinery, tools, equipment and supplies from tractors and other vehicles, to equipment and technology, so that visitors can get more from the event.

When: August 29-30, 2025

More info: www.agrishow.com.au

Royal Adelaide ShowWayville, SA

Established in 1839, the Royal Adelaide Show is now South Australia’s largest ticketed event. Attracting on average around 500,000 people, the Royal Adelaide Show hosts more than 450 exhibitor stands and o ers businesses a once-a-year opportunity to expand into new markets, boost revenue and signi cantly increase brand awareness. When: August 30-September 7, 2025

More info: www.theshow.com.au

South Gippsland Dairy ExpoKorumburra, Vic

The South Gippsland Dairy Expo provides an opportunity for members of the dairying fraternity to be able to showcase the latest in dairy innovation and technology to local farmers. This event that is organised and run by volunteers, each year enthusiastic parents and volunteers from the Poowong Kindergarten organise

the catering for all attendees.

When: September 3-4, 2025

More info: www.dairyexpo.org.au

Newdegate Machinery Field Days - Newdegate, WA

The town of Newdegate hosts one of Western Australia’s premier agricultural events, the Newdegate Machinery Field Days. Machinery, technology and research, animals and livestock, outdoor and camping exhibits, art and photography, fashion, show bags, food and wine, local produce, live entertainment, and much more make this two day event one not to missed, promoting and celebrating ag.

When: September 3-4, 2025

More info: newdegatemachinery elddays.com

Berry Farm and Lifestyle Field Days - Berry, NSW

Held at one of the most attractive showgrounds in NSW, the Berry Farm and Lifestyle Field Days (formerly known as the Berry Small Farm Field Days) is one of the cutest eld days on the Australian calendar. With equipment and machinery displays, demos and farm animals galore, this is an event for everyone!

When: September 12-13, 2025

More info: www.berryfarmandlifestyle.com.au

Visit tradefarmmachinery.com.au/agricultural-and-rural-

Last year’s TMA conference was held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground

DIECIDEDALUS28.7 2005,PoultryPro, hydro,aircond',6.3metrex2.8tonne,3676 hours..AS1477. TA970216. $65,450

NEWHOLLANDSC180 1998,180Bushel/ 6343Litre,2bin,castorquad,auger.. AS1355. TA739946. $53,900

HORWOODBAGSHAWUNKNOWN4000 Streamline 1984,2bin,4000litre,spur geardrive..AS1250. TA534881. $27,500

4WD TRACTORS

JCB 155-65 FASTRAC, 150hp, 3PL, 5500hrs

JCB 155-65 FASTRAC, 150hp, 3PL, 7300hrs

JCB 155-65 FASTRAC, 150hp, 3PL, 8000hrs

JCB 185-65 FASTRAC, 185hp, 3PL, 4900hrs

JCB 185-65 FASTRAC, 185hp, 8000hrs

JCB 3185-65 FASTRAC, 185hp, 3PL, 8700hrs

JCB 3220-80 FASTRAC/SPREADER, 220hp, 11200hrs

JCB 3230-65 FASTRAC/SPREADER, 230hp, 5825hrs

JCB 3230-80 FASTRAC/SPREADER, 230hp, 11000hrs

JCB 8330 FASTRAC, 335hp, 3PL, 3M, 5100hrs

2WD TRACTORS

IHC 5088, 150hp, 4750hrs

FWA TRACTORS

CASE IH MX170, 161hp, Fr & Rr 3PL – pto, 9500hrs

CASE IH MX200, 200hp, 3PL, 8750hrs

FORD 6640SLE, 85hp, 3PL, 5100hrs

FORD 7710, 100hp, 3PL, 8650hrs

JOHN DEERE 6210 / FEL, 90hp, 3PL, 6700hrs

MISCELLANEOUS

BLIGHTY ENG’ 30’ Rubber tyre Roller

BROONS Combination Roller

BURDER 9000 FEL Kit – JCB 8250

CASE 480E Loader, a/c, 10000hrs

CASE 580E Backhoe Loader

CIH MX 460/85R42 dual kit (80% tyres)

JCB 3CX-2WD Backhoe Loader 7900hrs

SIMPLICITY4000DTR 1991,5700Litre,2 bin,towbehind.AS1382. TA984613. $20,900

HORWOODBAGSHAWSCARIBAR 1999, 36'@12",presswheels..AS1599. TA1168171. $44,000

MORRISCONCEPT2000 2002,Concept, 35'@9",p/wheels..AS1248. TA509568. $44,000

JCB 3CX-2WD Backhoe Loader, 12745hrs

JCB 4CX Sitemaster Backhoe Loader, a/c, srs, 5600hrs

JCB 8018CTS Excavator, 1.6T, 1100hrs

JCB 8025ZTS Excavator, 2.6T, 705hrs

KOMATSU PC78MR-6 Excavator, 7T, 3600hrs

KOMATSU WA300-3E Wheeled Loader, 16000hrs

SIMPLICITY Small Seeds Box suit 8200TB3

VICTORY VL200 Wheeled Loader, 1385hrs

WCM 30 Wheeled Loader, 2800hrs

COMBINES

CONNOR SHEA 14 Row Pasture Drill, coulters, roller BARS

GASON 50’@10” Scaritill, Kelly rotary harrows

JANKE F500 UDD Planter, 40’@12”, coulters, p/wheels

JOHN DEERE 735, 40’@10”, p/wheels

AIR SEEDERS

BOURGAULT 8810 / 5295, 40’@12”, 3 bin, 10500 Li, auger

CIH PTX600 / ADX2230, 48’@9”, 8100 Li, SSB, auger

GASON SNFH55 / 1850RT3, 36’@10”, p/wheels

GASON SWRP / 1890RT, 52’@12”, auger, p/wheels, banding

HORWOOD 4000 STREAMLINE, 2 bin trike, SSB, Electric

drive

SIMPLICITY 4000TB

SIMPLICITY 4000DTR

SIMPLICITY 4500TR2, SSB, auger

SIMPLICITY 6000TR2

TELEHANDLERS

DIECI DEDALUS 28.7, a/c, 315hrs, 6.3m x 2.8t

DIECI 30.9 AGRI, a/c, 3200hrs, 9m x 3t JCB 525-58FS, 6000hrs, 5.8m x 2.5t JCB 525-67FS, a/c, 7000hrs, 6.7m x 2.5t JCB 526-55, a/c, 2950hrs, 5.5m x 2.6t JCB 526-55, a/c, 10675hrs, 5.5m x 2.6t JCB 527-58 AGRI, a/c, 1800hrs, 5.8m x 2.7t JCB 527-58 AGRI, a/c, 5650hrs, 5.8m x 2.7t

JCB 527-58 AGRI, a/c, 6775hrs, 5.8m x 2.7t

JCB 527-58 T4i AGRI PLUS, a/c, 2525hrs, 5.8m x 2.7t JCB 527-58 T4i AGRI PLUS, a/c, 6440hrs, 5.8m x 2.7t JCB 530-70, a/c, 6000hrs, 7m x 3t JCB 530-70, a/c, 6200hrs, 7m x 3t JCB 530-70FS, a/c, srs, 3000hrs, 7m x 3t JCB 530-70FS, a/c, 6250hrs, 7m x 3t JCB 530-70FS, a/c, 7500hrs, 7m x 3t JCB 530-70FS, a/c, srs 7000hrs, 7m x 3t

JCB 530-70FS SUPER, a/c, srs, 5500hrs, 7m x 3t JCB 530-70FS SUPER, a/c, srs, 6000hrs, 7m x 3t JCB 531-70CE, a/c, 5900hrs, 7m x 3.1t JCB 531-70CE, a/c, 7200hrs, 7m x 3.1t JCB 531-70CS, a/c, 6850hrs, 7m x 3.1t JCB 531-70 AGRI, a/c, 3350hrs, 7m x 3.1t JCB 531-70 AGRI, a/c, 4200hrs, 7m x 3.1t

JCB 531-70 AGRI, a/c, 4500hrs, 7m x 3.1t JCB 531-70 AGRI, a/c, 4900hrs, 7m x 3.1t

JCB 531-70 AGRI, a/c, 4900hrs, 7m x 3.1t JCB 531-70 AGRI, a/c, 5600hrs, 7m x 3.1t JCB 531-70 AGRI, a/c, 6300hrs, 7m x 3.1t

JCB 531-70 AGRI, a/c, 7400hrs, 7m x 3.1t JCB 531-70 AGRI, a/c, 8300hrs, 7m x 3.1t

EZEE-ON3550 2003,40'@10"..AS822. TADPLIn107338. $53,900

FLEXICOIL2640 2009,Quadcastor,260 Bu/9000Li,auger.AS1564. TA1168172. $55,000

JOHNSHEARER2175 1992,(EeezeOn),5 tonne2bintrailedtrike,SSB, auger.. AS1178. TA357690. $16,500

JCB 531-70 AGRI, a/c, 11600hrs, 7m x 3.1t

JCB 531-70 AGRI, a/c, srs, 6300hrs, 7m x 3.1t

JCB 531-70 AGRI SUPER, a/c, srs, 6000hrs, 7m x 3.1t

JCB 531-70 AGRI SUPER, a/c, srs, 6940hrs, 7m x 3.1t

JCB 531-70 AGRI SUPER, a/c, srs, 7000hrs, 7m x 3.1t

JCB 531-70 AGRI SUPER, a/c, srs, 7100hrs, 7m x 3.1t

JCB 531-70 AGRI SUPER, a/c, srs, 7160hrs, 7m x 3.1t

JCB 531-70 AGRI SUPER, a/c, srs, 9800hrs, 7m x 3.1t

JCB 531-70 T4f AGRI PRO, a/c, srs, 3200hrs, 7m x 3.1t

JCB 531-70 T4i AGRI SUPER, a/c, srs, 4750hrs, 7m x 3.1t

JCB 531-70 T4i AGRI SUPER, a/c, srs, 6800hrs, 7m x 3.1t

JCB 531-70 T4i AGRI SUPER, a/c, srs, 7200hrs, 7m x 3.1t

JCB 532-70 AGRI-FS, a/c, srs, 3100hrs, 7m x 3.2t

JCB 532-70 AGRI-FS, a/c, srs, 3600hrs, 7m x 3.2t

JCB 532-70 AGRI-FS, a/c, srs, 4600hrs, 7m x 3.2t

JCB 532-70 AGRI SUPER, a/c, srs, 2925hrs, 7m x 3.2t

JCB 532-70 AGRI SUPER, a/c, srs, 3700hrs, 7m x 3.2t

JCB 532-70 AGRI SUPER, a/c, srs, 3760hrs, 7m x 3.2t

JCB 532-70 AGRI SUPER, a/c, srs, 4175hrs, 7m x 3.2t

JCB 532-70 AGRI SUPER, a/c, srs, 5900hrs, 7m x 3.2t

JCB 535-95, a/c, 4500hrs, 9.5m x 3.5t

JCB 535-95C, a/c, 3850hrs, 9.5m x 3.5t

JCB 535-95 AGRI SUPER, a/c, srs, 6700hrs, 9.5m x 3.5t

JCB 536-70 T4i AGRI SUPER, a/c, srs, 6240hrs, 7m x 3.6t

JCB 538-60 AGRI SUPER, a/c, srs, 3100hrs, 6m x 3.8t

JCB 540-70FS SUPER, a/c, srs, 2000hrs, 7m x 4t

JCB 540-70FS SUPER, a/c, srs, 6300hrs, 7m x 4t

JCB 541-70 AGRI SUPER, a/c, srs, 2500hrs, 7m x 4.1t

Planting the seed

Rocky River Ag Services was named Flexi-Coil’s Dealer of the Year for 2024, thanks in large part to its a ersales service of the leading seeding equipment brand

First opening its doors to customers in 1994, South Australia’s Rocky River Ag Services has come a long way over the past 30 years.

Based in the agricultural hub of Crystal Brook – around 200km north of Adelaide –

Rocky River Ag originally operated out of a small shop in the town’s main street.

Growth from this point was rapid, and it wasn’t long before Rocky River Ag found a bigger location close by to meet a growing demand.

The business has since gone on to build a reputation for providing the highest quality agricultural machinery and a ersales service.

A commitment to sustainable farming practices and cutting-edge equipment has positioned Rocky River Ag as a key player in the region’s agricultural sector.

It’s for this reason the business is a proud registered dealer for Case IH and FlexiCoil, two CNH Industrial brands which form the backbone of Rocky River Ag.

As it is CNH Industrial’s sole brand for seeding equipment for the Australian market, Flexi-Coil is highly regarded among the nation’s farmers.

This has been the case since 1999, when CNH Industrial completed the purchase of the global seeding business.

As a dealer for the Mid North and Eyre Peninsula in SA, Rocky River Ag supplies a wide range of Flexi-Coil’s products, including its tillage and seeding equipment, along with spare parts.

With Flexi-Coil being distributed locally at CNH’s Mannum-based facility, approximately 85km east of Adelaide, Rocky River bene ts from research and development of these products into the future.

Rocky River Ag has supplied many Flexi-Coil products, including a new 7260 air cart and an 80ft 5500 air drill to Longmire Farms of Spalding, South Australia

The Combe family of Crystal Brook, SA, their new Flexi-Coil 5500 air drill & 4460 air cart. Left to right: Will, Cam & Phil Combe

Ebsary Pastoral recently took delivery of a Flexi-Coil ST820 bar and 4460 air cart from Rocky River Ag. Left to right: Deegan & Jarrod Ebsary, Flexi-Coil representative

Andrew Kissel, Rock River Ag’s

Jamie Matthews & Cody Kerley, and Peter Ebsary

Top dealer

With a fully dedicated team of FlexiCoil trained service staff, Rocky River Ag has long-been providing service support and expert advice to help growers get the maximum out of their equipment.

These efforts were recently recognised, with the Crystal Brook-based dealership being named Flexi-Coil’s Dealer of the Year for 2024.

Rocky River Ag dealer principal Lyn -

ton Smart says there was a lot of pride in this achievement.

“It was a huge honour to be named Dealer of the Year, none of this is possible without the commitment and dedication from the whole team at Rocky River Ag and CNH Capital, not forgetting the ongoing support from all our customers, he says.

“We’ve had a lot of help behind the scenes from Flexi-Coil, there’s a whole lot of hard work and dedication from the team.

“We’re grateful for all of the assistance

from the team in Mannum and also from CNH Capital.”

CNH Australia and New Zealand product manager for seeding and tillage Andrew Kissel says Rocky River Ag’s e orts have been ‘truly phenomenal’.

“They’re a dealer that we rely on to help guide our strategic direction, to help us understand where our opportunities are at and help us to continue to evolve the quality of our product to deliver what we believe is the best of the best,” he says.

CASEMAGNUM290 Oneowner,lowhours, Dualsallround,3PLand PTO,inexcellent condition,GPSfitted. S49. TA1205614. POA HARDICOMMANDER 10000LTR 45maluminiumboom isobus,oneowner,in excellentcondition,will beworkshopserviced. S47. TA1174680. POA

Images: Rocky River Ag

Wonstrow Farming of Maitland, SA, with its Flexi-Coil 5560 air cart and 5500 air drill. Left to right: Nick & Alex McCauley, as well as Rocky River service technician Cody Kerley

Flexi-Coil’s commitment to appeasing the evolving needs of modern growers aligns perfectly with Rocky River Ag’s dedication to customer care and innovative solutions, a key reason why Flexi-Coil has been a core brand of the dealership. It’s this business ethos that continues to make Rocky River Ag a standout leader in SA’s agricultural community.

For more information on Rocky River Ag, visit rockyriverag.com.au or call 08 8636 2772

JOHNDEEREX580

24HpKawasaki Twin engine,54"hydraulically operateddeck,Power steering,Tractionassist, 16.6litrefueltank, Comfort seat, Hydrostaticdrive,Only 109hours.S856. TA1273409. $12,990

KUBOTAM5091DHC 2024,18Forward/18 ReverseKubota Synchronized Transmission,3 RangeIncludesCreep Speed,6SpeedMain Shift.S833. TA1237446. $94,990

KUBOTA RTV-XG850WR-A-AU 54HPPETROLUTILITY VEHICLE-ORANGE 1 ONLY!!!851cc,2cyl. DOHC,Liquid-cooled, EFIPetrol,54HP@ 6,000rpm.S840. TA1239755. $28,990

HUSQVARNAMZ6128

61"fabricateddeck, 28Hptwincylinder engine,Hydrogear ZT3100transmissions, Pedalassisteddecklift, Adjustablesteering handles,Comfortseat, Readytogo.S855. TA1273408. $5,990

LANDPRIDERCF3684

Slasher,4"Cutting Capacity,Replaceable skidshoes,Smoothtop design,Allweldeddeck, Reinforcedrearchain guard,Heavy-duty tailwheelmount,360° swivellingtailwheel. S668. TA1155507. $16,990

KUBOTARTV-X1120D 3cylinderdiesel,2 Rangehydrostatic, 4WDwithdifflock, Powersteering, Hydraulictip tray, Goodtyres,Justhad majorservice.S822. TA1230620. $18,990

KUBOTAZ421KW-54

Lowhourmachine, Mulchingkit,Kawasaki twin,Suspensionseat, FoldingROPS,Easy height select, Full-service history, Newblades.S852. TA1255452. $6,990

KUBOTAGR2120-54 3cylinderDiesel

Hydrostatic transmission Allwheeldrive.S624. TA1138509. $18,000

KUBOTA RTV-XG850SL-AS-AU 54HPPETROLUTILITY VEHICLE-BLACK 1 ONLY!!!GZ850H-EM-UV, FuelTank:32.7,851cc,2 cylinderDOHC,Liquid -cooled.S841. TA1239756. $30,878

TIGRA PLUS SHREDDER/MULCHER

For farms, cutting various grasses and runners.

Maintenance of green areas. Flail mower for grass and pruning up to Ø 6 cm.

A series of devices, like the multi-agressive rotor, make it a multipurpose and professional mulcher.

Available in versions: 140-160-180-200

Hammers & flail options available

TRL MR-MT

SHREDDER/MULCHER

PANTERA AND PANTERA REVERS

‘HARDOX’ BODY SHREDDER/MULCHER

Developed for professionals in agricultural work and heavy duty work, PANTERA mower is a versatile mulcher that can face any kind of work. Thanks to Tierre patents such as the double hammer and the variable attitude body shell, this mulcher moves with agility over every type of ground.

Currently available in versions: 180-200-230-250-280-300

Hammers & flail options available

Suited for large farms and contractors, TRL heavy shredders stand out for their sturdiness. Ideal machines for shredding stalks in large extensions. Perfect for corn, cotton, grass, straw, pot to leaves, beet leaves, sugar cane, pineapple plantations, woody material and for the maintenance of uncultivated land.

Currently available in versions: 230-250-280-300

Hammers & flail options available

TOSCANOMULCHERH/D 2023,H/Dconstruction,doubleorsinglesidelinkage, optionalhydraulicsideshift,sizesfrom1.5to4mtr

SAMMUTTRUCKTRAYS

H/DAustralianmade.3mmor5mmfloor.Custombuild. Chassismodifications.Newandusedtrucksavailable. S360. TA1025472.

UNITEDIMPLEMENTS(USA)NEWTRAILINGBOX GRADERMADEINUSA 2022,MadeinUSA,heavydutybuild Hydraulicliftwheels,hydraulicangleadjustment 1800mmto3600mm.S363. TA1025493.

Pricefrom$6,900+GST

GEARMASTERTRAILINGTURFMOWER 2020,Buydirectfromthemanufacturerandsave.We havebeenmanufacturingmowersinAustralia for over 25years!Australianmade,onepiecestainlessdeck, fullgeardrive,stainlessdeck,75HPgearboxes,3plor trailing,sizesfrom1.5mtrto12mtr,suitable for Turf farms,golfcourses,councils,contractorsandmore. S364. TA1025498.

Pricefrom$17,000+GST

SAMMUTSPREADKING5000ORCHARD/VINEYARD SPREADER 2020,H/DAustralianbuild,frontorreardelivery.Sizes from2m3to18m3,optionaltelescopicconveyor, optionalendrotororendspinner,custombuilttosuit

SAMMUTSPREADERS

TOSCANOSTONEBURIEREXTRAHEAVYDUTY 2020,Extraheavyduty Hydraulicliftroller,geardrive Anti-panblades 2200mmto3200mm.S369. TA1025532. Pricefrom$17,900+GST

SAMMUTHARDOXTIPPERBODIES H/Dbuild. Onepiecesides,2waygate.Optionalwell hoistortwinunderbody.Optionaldropsides.Custom build.Colourofchoice.Sandblastedandfinishedin

SAMMUTMILLMUDSPREADERS,AUSTRALIAN MADE

2020,H/DAustralianmade Fullhydraulicdrive,singleor3row Frontfeed,Singleordoubleaxle,optionalrear spinners Sizesfrom8m3to30m3.S365. TA1025500.

Pricefrom$28,000+GST

2020,H/DAustralianmade,fullhydraulicdrive Wecancustombuild.Optionalfrontfeed Optionalsidedelivery.Chainorbeltfloor Sizesfrom2m3to30m3.S367. TA1025524.

Pricefrom$18,000+GST

TOSCANOSPEEDDISC 2022,Buydirectfromtheimporterandsave! Heavyduty,Hydraulicliftcrumbleroller,560mmdiscs ,3plandtrailing,2.5mtrto6mtr(trailing).S368. TA1025525.

Pricefrom$13,900+GST

FIMAKSVERTICALFEEDMIXERS

2020,Hardenedbinandfloor,H/DComerItalian gearboxes,sizesfrom3m3to30m3,scales,incab controls,ptionalfoldingconveyorwithoptionallength, reductionbox.S371. TA1025537. From$25,000+GST

FIMAKS18TONE,TWINVERTICLEBEATER,MULCH /MUCKSPREADERS

2022,BuyDirectfromtheimporterandsave!From5 toneto30tone,heavyDutyconveyorchain,slurrydoor, incabcontrols,twinverticalbeaterswithbottom spinner,suitable for allyourhardtospreadproducts etcWetcowmanure,mulch,greenwasteetc,18TONE MACHINE(ASPICTURED).S373. TA1025543. From$69,000+GST

CASEIHJXM75 #2012111500hrs,FELWITHNEW FORKSAND4in1BUCKET

CASEIHFARMALL105C #200983104HP,FELwithSTD BUCKET3RDFUNCANDSOFTRIDE

NEWHOLLANDT4.95 #2011862,111hrsFELMXT406Bucket&Forks

VADERSTADRAPID300C #2010635inseedspacings,10in fertspacings,Only350hectares $112,000

ELHOPROLINER1500 #404518BrandNexExDemo28 bales,fullwarranty. $44,000

FENDT309 #200883113Hp,7122hrs,Burder 2stageforklift.Readyforwork

2019BALDANCRIA #2010675.8workwidth,2.5m t/portwidth,28x7.5mmdiscs

JOHNDEERE468 #2011304900Bales,beenthrough workshopandreadyforwork. $27,500

CASEIHFARMALL110M #201191902hrs,40Ktrans, FEL3rdfunc&Softride. $94,000

KUBOTAM7131 #2008842290hrs,130Hp,Kubota LM2605FrontEndLoader. $95,000

CASEIHMAXXUM125 #201139UltimateSpec,3650hrs. 50kmtrans,QuickeEurohitchFEL $89,500

JOHNDEERE7730 #20121219,660hrsGoodTyres aroundallround

SILVAN2500 #200942Silvan18Meterboom: 2500Ltank,"ASNEW"only100hrs $49,500

KUHNVB3165OF #20087314,300bales,balesize 800-1600mm,Autochainlube $60,500

KRONECOMPRIMACV150XC #20109330,000BALES,Newbelts &Slats.HeavyDutyBaler

KUHNHR3030 #201102EXDEMO3mwide, packerroller,mudscrapers $40,150

UPTO36"MININGPUMPS PUMP VXTE48791. TA206423. $14,510

SOUTHERNCROSS100X65-315PUMPSET withNissanQD32(65hp),skidfueltank,oil-temp,hi/lo timerwatchdogandforkliftroof.Vel67912. TA11060. $13,750

PERKINSISOSILENCED PUMP NewPerkinsDieselIso Silencedpumpsetwithfuel tankbase..Perkisosilent1. TA223696. $26,000

PONTOONPUMP ELECTRIC Pontoonwithelectricpump. xzdef19652. TA206427. $14,910

PERKINSGENERATORS 6,8,10,13,15,20and30KVA generators,singleand 3-phase,poweredby water-cooledPerkinsheavy dutydieselengines,keyor remotestart,fueltankbase, fullengineprotection,500 hoursserviceintervalsIdeal backuporprimepowerCall foryourspecialprice!. AW54939-ST190912. DPLIn27583. POA

GRUNDFOSVARIUOS PUMPS VariedModels.S1. TA250286. $4,500

UNKNOWNPTO GENERATOR 50KVA-ThreePhase-3 pointlinkagewithheavy dutyjackstands.VEL4156. TA10931. $8,710

$56,000INCLGST

TA1125206.

MASSEYFERGUSON135TRACTOR3CYLINDERPERKINS DIESEL 2wheeldrive,3cylinderPerkinsdiesel,rollframe, rearwheelweights(optional),approximately42horsepower, tyres80%nocracks.7422. TA1254042. $11,950INCLGST

KUBOTAM8540TRACTORWITHFRONTMOUNTEDFORK&FRONT TYNES 4wheeldrive,withFrontForkAttachment&FrontTynes,4cylinderdiesel turbo,extra4bankelectrichydraulics,85horsepowerapproximately,air conditioning(working),approximately5,700hoursindicated,engineno:2DQ1454, serialno:87908,ROPS.7144.TA1162678. $58,450INC

$12,000INCLGST

GMS10KS-AU,415/240volt,3phase,self-excitedwhichallowsfor automaticswitchingfromyourmainspowersupplytobackupdiesel generator,21,421hours,Kubota10KVA,fullyserviced.7367. TA1231786.

Vision-Lift50FrontEndLoader,3pointlinkage,with4prong hayfork&bucket,approximately115horsepower,2,900 hoursapproximately.7355. TA1227784. $78,000INCLGST

CASEIHMAXXUM115TRACTOR 4wheeldrive,with

FORD5610TRACTOR 4x4,FrontEndLoaderwithForks, Rops,Roof,Windscreen,72horsepowerapproximately, immaculate,approximately5,280hours.7122. TA1155052. $35,000

2,589genuinehoursindicated,rearextenderboom,3x buckets,nooilleaks.7135. TA1159450. $79,000INCLGST

JOHNDEERE5525FWATRACTOR withselflevellingfrontend loader,4.1bucket,yearapproximately2005-2008,4wheeldrive, ROPS&Roof,91horsepowerapprox,PTO,withfrontweightframe(no weights),approx1,968hoursindicated,2newfronttyres.7073.

$43,000INCLGST

JOHNDEERE5525FWATRACTOR yearapprox.2005-2008,4 wheeldrive,FrontEndLoader,withbucket&forks,ROPS&roof,91 horsepowerapproximately,PTO,withfrontweightframe(noweights), approx.1,900hoursindicated,3pointlinkage.7089. TA1133372.

$19,950INCLGST

PRPOWER10KVAGENSET PRPowerGenset,model

CaseInternational3230TractorwithBenWyeKBF3000FrontFork AttachmentwithForks,4wheeldrive,60horsepowerapproximately,3 pointlinkage,rollframe&roof,2,300hoursasindicated.7351. TA1227753. $26,450INCLGST

CASEIH3230TRACTORWITHFRONTFORKATTACHMENT

$9,850INCLGST

MASSEYFERGUSON35TRACTOR 2wheeldrive,3cylinder diesel,PTO,rollframe,newtyres,42horsepower approximately.7440. TA1264628.

JCB3CXBACKHOELOADER,4CYLINDERDIESEL approx.

NEWTYRES&TUBESINSTOCK.7441. TA1264634. POA

HUGERANGEOFNEWTYRES&TUBESVARIOUSSIZESIN

JOHNDEEREZ997RZTRAKRIDEONMOWER diesel, approximately6'decksidedelivery,withcopyofmanual, 1,671hoursasindicated,year2021approximately,likenew. 7353. TA1227757.

ISEKISX75TRACTOR IsekiSX75Tractor,4wheeldrive,3 pointlinkage,70horsepowerapproximately,mechanically good,astraded.7456. TA1272963. $12,000INCLGST

BONNEBYSCHWARZESE6TROADBROOM/SWEEPER diesel,yearapprox2013,vinno:6T9T26ABLD09P9005,with books,servicehistory&controller,lowhours.7316. TA1219701. $12,500INCLGST

ON LONG SERVICE LEAVE, BACK ON 28TH JULY

rakes 6' to 10' new & sh Forage harvesters & carts, NH Gehl & Tiki Rollers (Cambridge), culti packers, stones & tyre)

7' to 28'. PTO hammermills, roller mills, grain gristers. From $595 3PL, 5-9 tine trail, 8-14 tine chisel ploughs From $795

Irrigation pipes, pumps & motors, travelling irrigators. Scoops, 3PL, silt blades, carryalls and rippers.

2nd hand tractor tyres, belt pulleys, PTO From $195

2nd hand new tines Augers, 50' x 6" & 8", pencil 14' x 4" new and 2nd hand.

Harrows all types From $45

Boom sprays, 3PL, Hardi and Silvan, 400 & 600ltr.

Power Harrows 3PL

KUBOTAM7040 2019,Kubota M7040inexcellentcondition with low (732)hours,FEL, goodtyres, ROP, Unregistered.SA. DIY1272770. 0439 817 062. $39,900

AUSTRALIAN MANUFACTURING4444 2021, CattleCratewillsuitUtilityor Trailer7ft6inLongand5ft10 inWide,..NSW. DIY1270983. 0428 295 511. $4,500

PARKESINDUSTRIES1 2006, 22Tchaserbin,135.NSW. DIY1264814. 0408 839 164. $77,000

VREDODZ344.07.5 2021,MaximumGerminationwithVredos Double-DiscSystem.Directseedplacementfor rapidgermination&deeprooting.7.5cm row spacingforfull,evenpasturecoverage, 3037.037.NSW. DIY1260724. 0448 475 196. $92,752

VERSATILE620DT

2019,CheckoutthisusedVersatile620DT!ImmaculateCondition!

575Hp(620Hpmax) -CumminsQSX15LTier3engine -3,446Nmpeaktorque - CAT TA2216x4Powershifttransmission -416L/minhydraulicpumpwith6electrohydraulicremotes -18,800Ldieseltank -Front&Reardifferentiallock -DeluxcabwithAgCabsuspension, -Trimblesetup -30"tracks

Hours:3973

Contact0431075312-UnitbeingheldinYatala,QLD.,BVA1821017.QLD. DIY1254382. 0431 075 312. $499,950

OR

WANTED TO BUY TRACTORS FOR WRECKING

CASE

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

CASE IH

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

CATERPILLAR

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

FORD

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

INTERNATIONAL

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

JOHN DEERE

950, 1050, 1130, 1140, 1640, 1750, 2010, 2020, 2030, 2040, 2120, 2130, 2140, 2250, 2450, 2650, 2850, 3010, 3020, 3120, 3130, 3140, 3350, 3640, 3650, 4010, 4020, 4030, 4040, 4050, 4055, 4230, 4240, 4250, 4255, 4430, 4440, 4450, 4455, 4555, 4560, 4620, 4630, 4640, 4650, 4755, 4760, 4840, 4850, 4955, 4960, 5010, 5020, 5310, 5515, 5300, 6030, 6110, 6170R, 6200, 6220, 6300, 6310, 6320, 6330, 6400, 6410, 6620, 6630 Premium, 6810, 6820, 7210, 7330, 7510, 7520, 7600, 7610, 7700, 7800, 7810, 7920, 7930, 8100, 8200, 8230, 8285R, 8300, 8310, 8320R, 8330, 8345RT, 8360RT, 8370RT, 8400, 8400 TRACK, 8410, 8430, 8440, 8450, 8520, 8520T, 8530, 8630, 8640, 8650, 8760, 8770, 8850, 8960, 8970, 9400, 9410R, 9420T, 9430T

NEW HOLLAND

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

STEIGER

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

VERSATILE

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

ISOLOADERHL-PC-35

Two(2)ISOLOADERPrecastConcreteHandlingRubberTyreGantriesbuyoneorbothfortandemliftandtraveleachwithSWL35,000kg.R3696R3697. TA1222670. POA ISOLOADER21

TheIsoloader21isastraddledesignedtoliftandtransport32,000kg,6mand27,000kg 12mISOcontainersfromroadtransportvehiclesandplacethemontheground.(Filephotoasexample)Twoavailable.R3621. TA1061595. $100,000EaPlusGST

HYSTERH18.00XM-12

withforkpositioningsideshiftcarriage, 2440mmforks,Cumminsengine,fullyenclosed airconditionedcab-Option20x40sideliftcont. frame.R3632. TA1124211.

POAForSaleorHirePh:1800688788

HYSTERH10.00XM

HYSTERH16.00XM-6

2010,lowhoursandingreatconditionwithMichelin XZMradialtyres,forkpositioningsideshiftand 2,440mmForks.R3525. TA730601. ForSaleorHirePOAPh:1800688788toInspect

HYSTERH12.00XM

200811,740kg4500mmlift,sideshiftcarriageand 2440mmforks.HireorBuyFreeCall1800688788. R3405. TA369982. POA

HYSTERH650C

6newContinentaltyres,Cummins6CTenginethis budgetpricedforkliftisreadyforwork.Option20'or 20x40toppickcontainerspreaders..R3712. TA1216675.

ForSaleorHirePh1800688788POA

KALMARDRT450-65S

2013,Stacksladen20x40containers5high.Cummins QSM11dieselengine.Dana15.5HR36000XMSN. H10300280. TA1153805.

ForSaleorHirePOAFreeCall1800688788

2006,Cumminsengine.WideForkPositioningSideshift Carriagewouldsuitlongloadse.g.pipe.R3689. TA1216676. POAForSaleorHirePh:1800688788

KALMARDRT450

2014,SOLD-AnotherAvailable.Only11081hourswith originalCumminsengine.Stack45,000kg1st row 31,000kg2ndrow.ReadyNow.R3603. TA998021. POAForSaleorHirePh:1800688788

OMEGA16-12W

IdealfurnitureremovalistsolutionRated12,000kgwith ELME558sidesliftabletostackuptofourhigh20and 40footcontainers..353AUFL443. TA1154000. ForSaleorHirePOAFreeCall1800688788

ISOLOADER21RubberTyreStraddleCarrier LoadUnloadandTravelwith32t20'andor27t40' containers.Lowcostlightweightcontainerhandler idealforlessrobustpavementorgoodhardstand.S113. TA1222701. POA

HYSTERH18.00XM-12

2008,stacks12,000kghighcube20'&40'3high.ELME 55820x40spreaderwithtopentrytwistlocks.Frontline unitreadynow.R3547. TA829125.

ForSaleorHirePOAFreeCall1800688788

PRENTICE7,000KGSWL forklifttruckramps(8)topickfrom.Idealforshipping containers.Forsaleorhire.R3274. TA96974. $12,000+GST=$13,200ForSaleorHire

GENIEGS3268RT

4WDdiesel.Recently 10yearinspected,new paint,goodreliable machine.S35.

$25,000+GST

SNORKELTB42JDZ 42fttelescopicboom lift.4WDDiesel.S30. $15,000+GST

SNORKELPRO126 126ftstraightstick boom,diesel,4WD, workingheight40.2m, goodworking condition.S36. $30,000+GST

SNAPPYHEAVY

DUTY

Scaffold.S2. $550+GST

JLG43FTRTSELF LEVELLINGDIESEL SCISSORLIFT VeryGoodValuefor money,tidymachine, stillworkinginour rentalfleet.S27.

$30,000+GST

SNORKELTB47J

4WDTB47JDZ TelescopicBoomLift, 10YearInspected, HydraulicGenerator, Diesel,Veryreliable machine..S39. $35,000+GST

HAULOTTE COMPACT14

2014,12melectric scissorliftverypopular unit.14mworking height.1unitavailable. S21. $6,000+GST

SNORKEL MHP13/35

2012,TrailerMounted articulatedboomlift featuresasafeandstable workingheightofupto 12.6m.Stillinhirefleet, verygoodcondition.S38.

$20,000+GST

GENIEGS1932 GenieGS1932Electric Scissorlift.S29. $4,000+GST

SKYJACK3219 2015,SkyJack3219 scissorlift,10year inspected,electric, 5.8mplatformheight. S40. $7,500+GST

Cutting edge technology

Queensland’s HiReach Rentals is signi cantly upgrading its access equipment eet, with top brands that o er cutting edge technology and optimal safety

Leading access hire business HiReach Rentals is renowned for its 30 years of experience hiring and selling machines and ongoing commitment to safety.

With three locations in Queensland –Brisbane, Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast – HiReach has supplied premium plant to some of the largest construction projects in the state since its inception in 1996.

As part of its business ethos, Hi-Reach is continually aiming to o er its customers the safest, most e cient and technologically advanced equipment on the market.

It’s for this reason the business has recently upgraded its hire eet, with new equipment already available and much more on the way.

“As we are primarily a hire company, we have thousands of machines and, over time, they need to be upgraded to ensure they are adequate for ongoing hire,” HiReach general manager Stephen Bradshaw says.

“By reinvesting in new equipment, our customers will have access to the safest and most-e cient machines, with the added bene t of them being cost-e ective.”

Chinese powerhouses XCMG and

LGMG are among the brands HiReach has invested in, with a brand new three-tonne LGMG telehandler that has a seven-metre maximum reach having recently arrived.

A new LGMG AR14J-H articulated boom li with a working height of 15.9m and extra capacity has also hit the yard, while XCMG scissor li s and telescopic boom li s with extra capacity have been procured.

“Some of the new XCMG and LGMG equipment have electric drives, which is more e cient and minimises hydraulic leaks,” Stephen says.

“Di erent pieces of machinery also have four-wheel drive and a lithium battery, and can last four days without charge, so they are more environmentally friendly.”

While these brands may be lesser known to elevated work platform customers, Stephen says their quality is undeniable.

“Both brands o er strong and reliable built equipment – they have really good machines,” he says.

“They’re workhorses, they do the job well and they’re very responsive. Machines from these brands suit the environment that they’re going in, so

the manufacturers are exible in terms of changing the product based on the customer’s requirements.”

The new equipment doesn’t just stop with XCMG and LGMG however, with new technologically advanced equipment being sourced from another Chinese manufacturer – Zoomlion. Boom and scissor li s from the USA’s Genie and Canada’s SkyJack will be coming soon, while more units from German under-bridge inspection specialist Moog are also on the horizon.

HiReach has carefully chosen these brands to not only be part of the hire eet but also to train operators on.

With safety being an imperative part of operating these machines, Stephen says the new machines have the latest and greatest technology, minimising potential risks.

“All new equipment has on-board tracking and diagnostics helping to minimise downtime and improve e ciency,” he says.

New equipment coming into the business means older pieces of machinery must go out, but this doesn’t mean they have reached the end of their useful life. Instead, HiReach will be selling various pieces of its second-hand equipment.

Having been thoroughly maintained with quarterly, annual and 10-year inspections at a minimum, Stephen says the equipment HiReach is selling is still highly reliable, working safely and at the optimal level required.

“We’re selling top brands that are still great performers,” he says.

“It’s all happening at the moment, we’ve already had new machines delivered and there’s more to come.”

A brand new three-tonne LGMG telehandler has recently arrived. Images: HiReach

XCMG scissor lifts are among the new arrivals

19-29 Curlew Cresc

Tamworth NSW 2340

www.philhuntparts.com.au brendan@philhuntparts.com.au

JOHNDEERE770GP JustinforDismantling,17.5x25 RimsandTyres,New14FootMoldboard,RearRipper Assy,6090Engine,CircleandDraftinVGC,Front SpindlesinVGC,AllPartsAvailable,PhoneBrendan02 67624466.S187. TA1234373. POA

JOHNDEERE670DGRADER JustinforDismantling,12 FootMoldboard,RearRippers,6068HEngine,DF180 Transmsission,14:00x24Rims&Tyres,LowHour Machine,AllPartsAvailable.PhonePeter0267624466. S125. TA974288. POA

PHIL HUNT PARTS PHIL HUNT PARTS

The HUNT stops here

NEW AND S/H PARTS

ALLIS-CHALMERS/HANOMAG/MASSEY

JOHN DEERE INDUSTRIAL

PARTS FOR Dozers, Loaders, Drotts, Graders, Scrapers

WRECKING DOZERS

ALLIS-CHALMERS: “M”, HD5B, HD6B, HD6E, HD6G, HD7W, HD7G, HD9B, HD10W, HD11B, HD11E, HD11EC, HD11EP, HD11 Ser B, HD15,C, HD16A, HD16AC, HD16D, DC, HD16DP, HD19,20,21A, HD21B,C, HD31, HD41B

FIAT: 451C, 555, 605C, 50CI, 70CI, 8, 8B, AD10, BD10B, FD10E, AD12, 14B, 14C, BD20, DX175

HANOMAG/MASSEY: 2244, 200, 300, 3366, 400, 500, L400C, L600C, D600D Super, D700C

JOHN DEERE : 1010C, 850 LOADERS

ALLIS-CHALMERS: TL12D, TL14, TL20, 545, 605B, 645, 745B,C FIAT: FR20B

LD3, LD5, LD6, LD7 and LD9 Scoopmobile

HANOMAG/MASSEY 22,33C,44, 55, CL55C,66C-D, 77 GRADERS

ALLIS-CHALMERS: D, DD, M65, 65B, AD30-40, 45, 145, M100A, B, FG95

DRMCO/CHAMPION 562, 600, 720, 740

JOHN DEERE 570, 570A, 670, 670A, 670B, 770, 770A, 772A, 770BH, 670CH, 670D, 672GP, 770GP, 772GP

ALLIS WHEEL TRACTORS

AC D17, D19, D21, XT190, 7000, 7010, 7020, 7040, 7060, 7080, 8010, 8050, 8070, 7580, 8550, 440 ALSO AVAILABLE

Track Chains, Rollers, Idlers, Sprockets

Various 4-1 Buckets, POA

JOHNDEERE772GP Justinfordismantling,6Wheel Drive,14FootMoldboard,SweetRunning6090 Engine, 17.5x25TyresandRimsAllRound,RearRipperAssy,All PartsAvailable,PhoneBrendanon0267624466.S191. TA1239667. POA

JOHNDEERE670CH Justinfordismantling,12foot moldboard,frontcounterweight,DF180transmission, 6068Tengine,allpartsavailable.S161. TA1116745. POA

Allis Chalmers • Fiat Allis • Hanomag • Massey • JD Industrial

2.5TonneLPGForkliftwith4.3MetreLift ContainerMast.P003. TA1206087. $13,200

1.2tonneelectricwalkiereachtruckwith4.27 metrelift.N054. TA1178245. $13,200

NISSANPKC245 2003,GMJT24.250EWP,major5yr rebuilddoneJune2023($41KSpent),24mworking height13mreach,ingoodconditionforitsage, telescopictopboom,C161CA. NSW. DIY1240336.

ENVIROCONCEPTSPROJECT2003 2019,DissolvedAir Flotation(DAF)6kLperhourContainer-isedUnit,Custom dosingsystem,Flocculator,MonoPumps,Remote Monitoring, Enviro-0010-20190730.NSW. DIY1270773. $90,000

ROUNDO3PS/RCNC

CHURCHILLCHURCHILLSURFACEGRINDER

ChurchillsurfacegrindingmachineManchesterEngland. Machineserialnumber:21988.Oilpumpmotor:1420.Wheel diameter:7.Wheelspindlespeed.RPM:2450.Wheelheadmotor. RPM:1420,21988.NSW. DIY1271356. 0413 168 886. $3,800Surfacegrindingmachine

HYSTERLIFTSMARTWRT15-4500 2022,TheLiftsmart WRT15isanergonomicallydesigned,highlysecure electricwalkie reach stacker,24414-6. WA. DIY1251904. 0417 955 658. $25,300

1994,RoundoR3PS/RCNCMachinewithinterpolationinGood workingorderwithStandardrollsandspecialrollsforpipeand tuberollingandbendingx12setsfrom19mmto76mmOA.Also included are 2operatorsmanualswhichincludesystemdiagrams andsparepartslist,945636.SA. DIY1264217. 0418 838 104. $45,000

CUSTOM

2023,Asnew1800m2modularbuildingpackedin shippingcontainers. Potentialminingcamp/offices,emergencyhousing, schoolgroupaccommodation,etc. This2-year-oldbuildingislikenewandwas designedforquickerection,dismantlingand re-erection; Thebuildingcomponents are currentlyavailablefor inspectioninCanberrabyappointment; Thewallsandceilingpanels are modularcool room/sandwichtypepanels(factorypainted,steel lined,fireresistantexpandedpolystyrene insulation),solightweight,hygienic/easytoclean, durableandnopaintingrequired,0.NSW. DIY1269213. 0477 446 908.

$450,000ONO

KERFAB BALE FORKS

DO THE HEAVY LIFTING

Kerfab’s bale forks are proudly designed and manufactured in Australia to withstand the harshest conditions, delivering exceptional durability, efficiency, and safety.

Trusted by professionals across Australia and New Zealand, Kerfab attachments provide the reliability and performance that top operations demand. Reach out to the Kerfab team or your machinery dealer today to experience the difference.