Landscape Contractor September

SUBSCRIBE FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN

A KRESS COMMERCIAL BLOWER, BATTERY AND CHARGER. VALUE $2227!

CONTRACTOR

$7.95 inc GST September/October 2025

THE

smart way TO MOW

with a Husqvarna Automower® robotic mower ISSN 1832-4584

9 771832

458000

04

CASE STUDIES + Bobcat + A1 Rubber EVERY ISSUE + Property maintenance + Business and finance

VIDEO REVIEWS + Liugong + Masport + Construction equipment + Association news

L

BA

O

Y & PET ER R T T

EN

O

R

D

OL

GA

S

#

RATED BRAND^

P OW E R

T

ld’s MOS or T w

E

RY

dd

T BAT

er

POWERFUL PO WERFUL vac hr c um s

s MOS ihl’ T st

m

T

ER Yh

m

BAT

er

POWERFUL PO WERFUL edge t

ri

ld’s MOS or T w

POWERFUL PO WERFUL br

ush

cutt

er

e

Contents

Features 09. Pivoting landscapers 15. Statement plants 20. Integrated pest management systems 24. On the cover: Husqvarna Automower

Chairman John Murphy

Regulars

Publisher Sarah Baker

06. From the editor

Editor Tom Foster tom.foster@primecreative.com.au

CEO Christine Clancy Head of Sales Andrew Morrison

54. Eye on the industry

Production Editor Michelle Alder michelle.alder@primecreative.com.au

62. Business and finance 66. Association news 69. Subscribe and win

Design Danielle Harris Jacqueline Buckmaster

Focus sections

Subscriptions P. +61 3 9690 8766 subscriptions@primecreative.com.au

28. Property maintenance

Website landscapecontractor.com.au

42. Paving and decking 44. Construction equipment

Case studies 38. Bobcat and The Mower Goat 52. A1 Rubber and Manuel’s Maintenance

Copyright

Landscape Contractor magazine is owned by Prime Creative Media and published by John Murphy.

All material in Landscape Contractor magazine is copyright and no part may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means (graphic, electronic or mechanical, including information and retrieval systems) without written permission of the publisher.

The editor welcomes contributions but reserves the right to accept or reject any material. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information, Prime Creative Media will not accept responsibility for errors or omissions, or for any consequences arising from reliance on information published.

The opinions expressed in Landscape Contractor magazine are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by, the publisher unless otherwise stated. © Copyright Prime Creative Media, 2025.

Video reviews 26. LiuGong 9035F ZTS 40. Masport TTM102RH

ON THE COVER SUBSCRIBE FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN

A KRESS COMMERCIAL BLOWER, BATTERY AND CHARGER. VALUE $2227!

CONTRACTOR

Articles All articles submitted for publication become the property of the publisher. The editor reserves the right to adjust any article to conform with the magazine format.

$7.95 inc GST September/October 2025

THE

smart way

Head Office 379 Docklands Dr, Docklands VIC 3008 P: +61 3 9690 8766 enquiries@primecreative.com.au www.primecreative.com.au

TO MOW

with a Husqvarna Automower® robotic mower ISSN 1832-4584

9 771832

458000

04

CASE STUDIES + Bobcat + A1 Rubber EVERY ISSUE + Property maintenance + Business and finance

VIDEO REVIEWS + Liugong + Masport + Construction equipment + Association news

Husqvarna’s Automower transformed a NSW central-coast property. Image: Husqvarna 4

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

Landscape Contractor put the compact 9035F into a tight spot and was impressed with how well it performed. Page 26. Image: Prime creative Media

Sydney Office Suite 11.01, 201 Miller Street, North Sydney, NSW, 2060, Australia

E

$

W

* F f f s h c

HALF HITCH & 3 BUCKETS INCLUDED!

E17 EXCAVATOR

$33,990 WITH

+ GST *

0% FINANCE

*Price includes a Bobcat E17 excavator, half hitch and 3 buckets.

Freight and assembly charges may be applicable. 0% over 36 month finance is offered on a chattel mortgage with 10% deposit required, followed by equal monthly repayments and no balloon. Finance is subject to credit approval and is only available to approved ABN holders. Not available in conjunction with any other offers. Terms and conditions apply. For further details, contact Clark Equipment.

STRICTLY LIMITED TIME ONLY!

ZERO-TURN MOWERS

SAVE $1,000 WITH FACTORY REBATES

*Factory rebate by way of discount on machine at time of sale. Not available in conjunction with any other offers. Terms and conditions apply. For further details, contact Clark Equipment.

Distributed by www.bobcat.com.au | 1300 736 848

*

Welcome The reality’s not much to be nostalgic about. Image: librakv/AdobeStock_175848098

From the editor

I

wonder if I’ll ever get as excited about battery-powered gear as I always have done about internal-combustion engines.

I do find electrically powered units interesting. I love it that my mower, line trimmer and chainsaw sit in the shed all winter, hardly being used, and when I slip in a battery, they start and run as though I’d cared for them lovingly during the cold months. They’re quiet, there’s no pull starting or frustration with rat-chewed air filters or draining carby bowls…they just work.

For a professional wanting to get on with the job that’s hard to beat. For a bloke who just wants the yard mowed and edges done so he can get back to other more rewarding pastimes, it’s a free-hit boundary after a noball week of desk work.

But I also feel the fading importance of things which meant so much to me – hardwon knowledge which is fast becoming useless. Things like knowing two-stroke mixtures, adjusting fuel and air screws,

6

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

reading the colour of a spark plug and setting an idle speed. Those kinds of things are fading into the past and I sometimes feel it’s important knowledge which is being lost.

But the reality is, those things aren’t important.

They’re certainly not as important as the air we breathe and the sound of the world around us. They’re not as important as the dwindling supplies of fossil fuels and simply making our homes places of sanctuary uninterrupted by weekend cacophonies of petrol-powered machinery.

And for professional users of that kind of equipment, the opportunities for more efficient and cost-effective operations with battery-powered gear are huge and undeniable.

I can still have my petrol engines to fool around with – I still do have them and spend a lot of time on them – but I accept it’s a hobby now, and I think that’s a good thing for the world.

There is one sly joy from petrol engines that’s getting better all the time: explaining to youngsters, most of whom have only ever seen fuel injection, about carburettors.

They usually look doubtful and say something like, “The petrol was slopping around in a bowl, and air swooshed over the top of it and that went into the cylinder?

How can something like that be tuned? What happens on steep slopes?”

It always makes me smile.

How could they ever understand Aerostart, BP Zoom, or a choke butterfly?

That’s the point: they don’t have to. It’s time we moved on to easier, quieter ways of maintaining our properties – and our health.

Tom Foster Editor

Cut smarter with Husqvarna’s Robotic Mowers

TRANSFORM GREEN SPACE MAINTENANCE WITH HUSQVARNA AUTOMOWER Whether you’re managing sports fields, parklands, commercial sites or private estates, Husqvarna’s wire-free robotic mowers with EPOS technology deliver precision, reliability and low emissions—without the hassle. Virtual boundaries mean faster setup, flexible operation, and more time to focus on what matters. Smarter mowing starts here.

COMMERCIAL

Up to 16,000m2

Up to 50,000m2

RESIDENTIAL

Up to 7,500m2

High quality finish

Reliable and cost efficient

Sustainable solution

Speak to your Authorised Husqvarna Elite Automower® Dealer today.

LEARN MORE

THE ULTIMATE STEP UP. The Ultima ZTXS. Commercial-grade build delivers enhanced strength and durability in the most challenging conditions.

BOOK A TEST DRIVE

WARRANTY

www.cubcadet.com.au

& *Engine & unit warranty.

y.

Technical insight

Pivoting landscapers Marc Worner points out that when the times demand it, landscapers must be able to diversify their skill sets to keep up the cash flow.

M

ore and more Australian households are demanding more and more work be done by outsiders. Whether that be landscaping their property, walking their dog, building an outdoor entertaining area, extending the paved courtyard or fixing that broken gate; it’s all about the householder being freed up to do other things. A large part of the household chores get done these days by a ‘handyman’. Yet some of their bigger jobs can easily be done by landscapers.

Take a fence

For instance, in NSW, when a property with a backyard swimming pool is being sold or rented out, it needs a NSW State Government’s Compliance Certificate to be attached to the Contract for Sale or Tenancy Agreement respectively.

Many owners find themselves needing to increase the height of their boundary fences if they’re acting in part as pool fences.

Image: JIALU/stock.adobe.com www.landscapecontractor.com.au

9

Technical insight

For that Balinese look, suggest bamboo fencing. Image oris/stock.adobe.com Now, because the law relating to swimming pools around Australia has changed over the years, many owners find themselves needing to increase the height of their boundary fences if they’re acting in part as pool fences, or replacing their pool gates if they fail to work properly. These things need to be done if the properties are to comply with the respective legislation in each state.

Enter the pivoting landscaper.

Quoting on fencing jobs which have high margins may see landscapers not only smooth out their cash flow, but utilise their business’s labour resources in slower times.

It may eventually be seen as a lucrative other ‘arm’ to the business.

Most residential properties have either timber or colorbond fencing as their boundary fencing. A common practice is to sight a swimming pool in the corner of a property, so two boundary fences can be used in part as a pool barrier. The average pool is about 9m x 5m, so any quote would involve a length of at least 15 metres to 20 metres of fencing. Usually that existing fencing is about 1500mm to 1600mm high.

Swimming-pool legislation in all states requires the fence height to be at least 1800mm.

One can easily purchase timber or colorbond fence extensions sourced from a myriad number of retailers. It becomes an aesthetic choice in many cases. For instance, there are 2400mm × 500mm compliant fence extensions made using 70mm treated pine palings held tight using vertical timber straps.

Colorbond fence extensions are made in a 10

The installation of aluminium and steel internal pool fences should be a skill set employed by every landscaper. Image: Yevheniiya/stoxk.adobe.com

V t

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

REE097

LET’S GET YOUR LANDSCAPING DONE. Our wide range of landscaping supplies, from drainage and edging, to lights and lawn care, will help get your to-do done.

Visit your nearest branch or reece.com.au/irrigation to see how we can help.

REE0975 - I&P Landscaper Contractor Press Ad_02.indd 2

23/9/2024 3:12 PM

Technical insight

The customer has an overriding right to make the pool barrier safe for children. Image: Marco/stock.adobe.com wide choice of compliant designs to suit the outdoor décor of any pool surround, usually about 2350mm x 600mm in size. Of course, all the components such as posts, rails and screws need to be costed to quote. Most distributors offer free delivery Australia-wide.

TIP: When choosing the rail profile (Lysaght, Stratco, etc) make sure it matches the existing top fence rail, otherwise it looks odd and will be more difficult to install.

Act accordingly

In NSW, the Swimming Pools Act 1992 overrides the NSW Dividing Fences Act 1991.

This means if the neighbour objects to the extension of the height of that fence, your customer has an overriding right to make the pool barrier safe for children. Be aware, though, your customer must bear the full cost of your work.

TIP: Always check your state’s legislation before proceeding to quote. Tasmania still relies on its Boundary Fences Act of 1908 as its primary legislation, notwithstanding the fact only licensed builders can install pool barriers.

Wood if you could

If choosing to fit timber fence extensions, we need to ensure those extensions have no handholds children could use to climb 12

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

down and into the pool from the neighbour’s side. A good guide is to check if any part of it has protrusions or indentations of more than 10mm. That could be non-compliant.

Woven patterns are an example of this type of construction.

Some landscapers may choose to quote on the upmarket, 1800mm x 1800mm brushwood fencing panels. They’re labour-intensive to install but add a highly desirable aesthetic to any timber or colorbond fence and last for many years.

Quote the timber to be used according to the customer’s needs and budget. Merbau lasts the longest, while treated pine is the most economical.

Grounded

The internal pool barrier, as opposed to the boundary-fence pool barrier, can be made from different materials provided they are strong, durable and meet certain legislative criteria in each state.

The most popular internal pool barriers are glass panels (frame and frameless), tubular aluminium and steel fence panels.

Internal pool fences 1200mm high, made from toughened glass that complies with Australian Standard 1288, add a touch of luxury to any outdoor pool space. Yet, for a

variety of reasons, there are occasions when they need replacement and/or adding to.

Posts and brackets vary enormously. They are easily sourced from many glass-poolfence retailers in every state. The fittings the glass panels sit in are known as ‘spigots’ and come in a variety of shapes, colours and quality. You get what you pay for.

Fitting glass panels of between 900mm and 2000mm long and 1200mm high is simple, but be careful with the handling.

Specialised carrying equipment is essential.

During installation, too much pressure on fittings may cause the glass to fracture or crack. Alignment with the existing surrounding panels takes patience.

TIP: If undertaking a quote for a pool renovation that requires installing new spigots, get the advice of an electrician first. Some states require each spigot to be earthed before its installation.

Wait for it

The installation of tubular aluminium and steel internal pool fences should be a skill set employed by every landscaper. Numerous retailers around the country provide one-stop shopping for the panels of different heights and lengths according to one’s needs, and all the accompanying fittings such as posts, post

caps and screws. Nearly all sellers deliver fencing kits Australia wide.

There’s a very strong, 2.5mm thick, marinegrade aluminium alloy 5052 H32 sheeting panel, with 9mm holes closely bunched together to create a high ‘open’ percentage rate allowing amazing visibility. Each panel has more than 1600 x 9mm holes. They exceed Australian pool-fencing standards in every state of Australia. Other advantages are that they let the breeze through while slowing down strong winds and can be cut to any smaller length.

They can be paired with glass or aluminium pool fencing.

Also consider vertical-batten pool fencing for a modern industrial look.

TIP: Bespoke tubular aluminium and steel internal panelling takes about six to eight weeks to manufacture.

Style

For a touch of nature with the resilience of aluminium, a horizontal wood-grain-slat screening system is the perfect choice. These aluminium slat screens feature a wood-grain finish that mimics the natural beauty of timber without the upkeep.

For that Balinese look, suggest bamboo fencing panels in your quote. Fitting is very

labour intensive because in many cases you’ll also be building the frame for the bamboo to sit against. They can look stylish if you pay for a premium bamboo, but let your customer know the life of the material is limited and the panels will require ongoing maintenance.

Never forget boundary pool-fence walls using the cladding method in different types of materials work a treat for new builds and duplexes around the country.

They’re fixed to surrounding battens and offer total privacy to both neighbours and include a level of sound deadening. They can stylishly reflect and repeat indoor décor patterns, and all without maintenance.

Open and shut

All pool gates require attention at some time in their life. Whether it be because the laws have changed and the current design is thought to be less safe for children, the springs in the hinges are failing to automatically close the gate, or parts have rusted away, it’s a common source of annoyance for owners who traditionally get a handyman to fix it. But it’s a task for landscapers looking to make quick and easy income from little to no outlay and a small impact on their time.

Gates should be self-closing and selflatching. Gates should open outward, away from the pool, and the gate latch-release mechanism should be at least 1.5m above finished ground level. Otherwise, at least 150mm below the top of the gate (or any hand-hole).

The complete gate-closing mechanism, which consists of the hinges and the magnetic latching device with striker plate, come in different colours and materials. All should be matched to the type of fencing material.

Pool-gate hinges can be climbed by children if they protrude more than 10mm so extra rules apply. They must be at least 900mm apart from the top of the lower hinge to the top of the top hinge and have a 60-degree safety cap added to the lower hinge if they are closer than 900mm apart.

There is always the possibility, once on site, to quote for other tasks needing attention, such as that water feature that no longer runs or the replacement/upgrade to the retained garden wall or the rebuild of the BBQ setting.

Perhaps that timber pergola facing the pool needs renovation?

The Australian singer/songwriter Paul Kelly once said: “From little things, big things grow.” www.landscapecontractor.com.au

13

Technical insight Tree ferns offer significant attributes as statement plants. They look good against hard surfaces and particularly striking in shady courtyards.

Images: John Gabriele

Statement plants John Gabriele highlights some points to watch out for when selecting feature foliage.

P

lants can take any landscape design from drab to fab, and as modern landscape designs are defined by clean lines, and a somewhat minimalistic approach to the plant palette with a heavy emphasis on structural pants or architectural plants, selection is critical to success. Architectural plants are the ones that ‘make a statement’ in any landscape. They often stand out as a focal point that secondary plantings compliment to complete the overall aesthetic.

Statement plants can provide yearround interest and provide the necessary framework for the entire planting.

When we think of statement plants our

minds are likely to wander to visions of plants with unique shapes, colours and bold forms that often create a conversation piece. While this is certainly a common characterisation of statement plants, we mustn’t lose sight of the fact that statement plants form the backbone of the landscape.

They support everything else in the design.

Their functionality is critical to overall design success, notwithstanding the other elements that should be considered.

The bold and the beautiful

Modern landscapes have become synonymous with the bold use of foliage

plants: topicals, cacti, succulents, palms, and cycads, and their popularity isn’t likely to wane anytime soon. These plants provide drama in any landscape, and the more attention directed to them, the more dramatic the planting will be.

Size, however, isn’t everything.

Statement plants don’t necessarily have to be large and tall to make an impact.

Even smaller landscapes can utilise the characteristics of statement plants to generate interest and utility.

Ornamental grasses and grass-like strap-leaf plants make excellent statement plants. Those with an upright habit are www.landscapecontractor.com.au

15

Technical insight

Palms and palmlike plants are iconic for their towering presence and tropical allure

R I metres tall and even bigger flower spikes – some 4m-5m long. D. palmeri has a flower spike weighed down with lots of large red flowers along one side of the spike tip. The Gymea lily presents its flowers at the end of the tall flower stem (scape). Both plants have received a lot of attention in public landscaping projects, and although native to the coastal communities of Sydney, NSW and Queensland respectively, they have proven adaptable to a range of climates.

T a i s

•

•

•

•

Palms

Sago palm is dioecious. While it doesn’t produce traditional flowers, it forms cones, much like pines. predominantly useful, including varieties such as Miscanthus – particularly the variegated varieties – which may also display autumnal tones in some climate zones providing additional seasonal interest.

The Australian native Fountain Grass (Cenchrus alopecaroides, formerly known as Pennisetum alopecuroides), boasts feathery, whitish flowers that are very showy and contrast with its green foliage. Fountain Grass has a clumping growth habit with beautifully arching leaves and definitely makes a statement, particularly in mass plantings in landscapes.

There are several mauve-purple feathery flowered cultivars and purple-foliagecoloured forms available also.

Many recently introduced ornamental grasses are referred to as possible ‘sleeper weeds’ as their weed status has not 16

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

necessarily been thoroughly tested under local conditions. So, when planting any ornamental or native grasses or grass-like plants, check their local weed status with regulatory authorities. These plants may pose a potential environmental threat.

Just the flax

New Zealand Flax (Phormium tenax) is another bold strap-leaf statement plant.

With rigid, upright, swordlike foliage stretching to three metres, ranging from green to bronze and chocolate brown, and with variegated forms beautifully striped or with edges in pinks, reds, orange or purple, flax makes an excellent choice. Not be outdone, Australia’s Gymea lily (Doryanthes excelsa) and Spear lily (D. palmeri), are striking statement plants. Both produce massive, sword-shaped leaves up to two

Palms and palm-like plants have been a staple in the statement-plant palette for decades, and for good reason. There’s a plethora of plants in this category that can elevate any landscape. Palms and palmlike plants are iconic for their towering presence and tropical allure. Some of the heavy hitters in this area include the Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata), Bismarkia nobillis, Cycas revoluta, and Xanthorhoeha spp. All these species are slow-growing and their inclusion in a landscape as a mature specimen will come at a significant cost. The payoff is in the impact they provide.

Perfect for creating a focal point in large landscapes, the Bismark Palm creates an impressive silhouette with its massive, silvery-blue leaves which create a sense of drama and grandeur ideal for tropical and sub-tropical regions.

Not as they seem

Beaucarnea actually isn’t a palm at all. It’s a succulent. But it still captures the essence of a palm tree with its long, flowing leaves held in clusters. The clusters form at the end of the stems arising from the swollen base and give the plant a unique shape and striking appearance. One of the biggest advantages of Ponytail Palm is its low maintenance requirements and drought hardiness.

The Japanese Sago palm (Cycas revoluta) is another palm imposter. It’s a Cycad.

7 P E

C

LEADERS IN VEGETATION MANAGEMENT MACHINERY

REDEFINING THE BUSINESS OF MOWING. INDUSTRIOUS. ADVANTAGEOUS. AUTONOMOUS. The AMR is a revolutionary product that directly addresses inherent problems in the landscaping industry. Autonomous technology allows you to work smarter, safer and deliver improved results and revenue.

• Reduces your labour requirements and costs.

• Single operator can generate the same revenue as a crew of three.

• Manage fewer employees with greater productivity.

• Grow your business with less labour.

LEARN MORE

AND REGISTER YOUR INTEREST

REMOTE OPERATED SLOPE MOWERS The ultimate solution for accessibility, efficiency and safety when it comes to mowing slopes and challenging terrain.

• Remote operated for optimum operator safety.

• Mow slopes and hazardous terrain in half the time with just a crew of one.

• Designed to secure niche revenue, maintaining: • Hillside and steep inclines.

• Golf course rough.

• Dam, water course, drainage and levy embankments.

• Wet or swampy terrain.

• Hard to access roadsides.

50°

SLOPE CAPABILITY

RANGE

MATERIAL SIZE

MOWING RATE

300m

UP TO

38mm

2.5 acres/h*

*AVG. IN DIFFICULT TERRAIN

75-77 Westgate Drive, Altona North, VIC 3025 P (03) 8369 6610 E info@colbrookindustries.com.au COLBROOKINDUSTRIES.COM.AU

FIND OUT MORE Full specs, features, videos, photos and more.

Technical insight Sago palm is dioecious – it has separate male and female plants. While it doesn’t produce traditional flowers, it forms cones, much like pines. The male plant bears a golden, pineapple-shaped cone while the female develops a feathery, golden head which becomes a densely packed seedhead if pollinated. It’s extremely slow-growing but highly valued for its robust trunk and feathery dark-green leaves.

Xanthorrhoea spp. commonly known by the politically correct common name, Grass tree, are the epitome of all things Australian.

As the common name implies, they consist of a thick, rough stem with a blackened and somewhat corky bark capped by a whorl of long, wiry leaves. When produced on older specimens, the spear-like flower spikes can reach heights of two metres or more above the foliage.

Grass trees are usually survivors of bushfires and over many years can develop into architectural masterpieces. Fire causes their blackened trunk to branch into two or even more heads, making these multi-stemmed specimens highly valued as landscape plants. There’s something iconic about them that demands attention wherever they’re grown, both in their natural environment and in constructed landscapes.

Need care

With some 30 species of Xanthorrhoea, land clearing and land ‘improvement’ has seen their natural habitat decline and many plant communities under threat. They remain very popular as statement plants in both commercial and residential landscapes, however correct planting technique and aftercare of grass trees is critical. Many Birds nest ferns are epiphytic and can grow quite large, making a dramatic statement for a shaded or semi-shaded position.

18

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

specimens have been lost in the two years following transplanting and price tags can climb into the thousands of dollars, so there’s no room for error. Site soil should be well aerated for best results and good drainage can be achieved by planting on top of a mound.

Grass trees are sensitive to root disturbance, so precautions should be taken to reduce the amount of disturbance to roots during planting. The first few months after planting are a critical time and daily watering should be maintained for the first month before being slowly reduced. During this time use a seaweed solution at the label rates to encourage root development. Bio stimulants can also be a useful addition to help encourage good bacteria and fungal organisms that can assist with nutrient uptake and root development.

Cacti

Cacti and succulents are enjoying their time in the sun (pardon the pun) as popular landscape plants. With so many variations in colour, texture and form, it’s no wonder they remain a staple in landscape design.

Some standouts in this category include the Candelabra Spurge, (Euphorbia ammak ‘Variegata’) and the Dragon Tree (Draceana draco).

These architectural beauties are drought tolerant once established and their strong architectural qualities make them popular statement plants. Love them or hate them Agave spp. and Yucca spp. can be used to great effect in xeriscapes and have become a mainstay in contemporary landscape designs. Check with your state or territory guidelines on which cacti and succulents are

able to be planted as there many in this group which may be prohibited in some states or territories.

Ferns

At the other end of climatic extremes, from full sun to shade, tree ferns offer significant attributes as statement plants. They look good against hard surfaces and particularly striking in shady courtyards with their tall caudex (trunk) capped with an umbrella of dramatic fronds.

The rough tree fern Cyathea australis is one of the most common species grown for Australian landscapes. This plant can grow up to 20m in height. The rough tree fern Cyathea cooperi grows to around six metres and is another popular variety.

Height isn’t everything, though. Birds nest ferns (Asplenium spp) are epiphytic ferns and can grow quite large, making a dramatic statement for a shaded or semi-shaded position. They produce large fronds forming a rosette making an attractive nest shape, and their striking, upright vase shape adds structural interest to the landscape, creating a superb focal point.

More than looking good

Statement plants command attention, they can define areas within the garden, add height and dimension, and complement the overall design. In modern landscapes, statement plants might be sculptural succulents, towering palms, architectural grasses, or vibrantly coloured flowering shrubs and foliage plants.

The most important aspect of statement plants, though, is their role in not just being ornamental, but also functional.

mini size

MAXIMUM

FREEDOM DEALS ON MINI

0.99% FINANCE*

36 Mths, 10% Deposit, Zero Balloon* Flexible Finance Solution*

OR

$

UP TO

13K REBATE*

On Attachments

ALL OPTIONS INCLUDE 3 YRS / 3000 HRS MACHINE WARRANTY

BUILT TOUGH. For more information contact your local branch or visit hitachicm.com.au/deals-on-minis *T&Cs apply. Visit the website or scan the QR code for full details.

Offer Ends 31TH DECEMBER 2025

Technical insight

Integrated pest management systems Jonathan Garner pushes a pest aside.

I

hope you had a good winter and this chat provides you with a better understanding of alternative ways to manage pests and disease within your landscape asset. How good would something like this read on your company profile?

‘AAAA Gardens’ policy is to use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to control pests safely and sustainably. This combines monitoring, biological controls and lowtoxicity treatments that protect your garden, family, and the environment’.

Pre-emptive

Integrated Pest Management is a holistic approach to managing pests in the most environmentally friendly way possible. The goal isn’t to eliminate every pest. The aim is to keep major pest outbreaks in check and from causing considerable harm while 20

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

minimising the risks to staff, public, pets, and the environment.

Essentially, the system flips our approach from being reactive to proactive – by this I mean having measures in place to prevent pest outbreaks rather than having to deal with it once the outbreak occurs.

No nuking needed

If you haven’t set up preventative measures initially, it’s likely you’ll be faced with an outbreak and will need chemicals to eliminate or reduce the pest pressure. After numbers are down, you’d follow up by introducing natural controls such as beneficial insects and improving the cultural practices: correct watering, feeding, and if the pest pressure is continual and opportunities are available, removing and replacing the specimen with the right plant for the right place.

Before we jump into an IPM example.

The universal task you need to undertake is getting to know the pest. There’s plenty of information online or in books, but the process basically goes: 1. Identify it 2. Identify the signs of it and what it does 3. Learn about its lifecycle so you can intervene to break the lifecycle. Breaking the cycle puts breeding in check. Less offspring naturally means less ongoing pests in the future 4. Learn about its predators and parasites.

It’s quite likely these friends are already managing your pest, and 5. Learn when the critter is at its most vulnerable. If you have to use chemicals, these will be most effective times and require you to use much less product. This is important, as intervening with chemicals

In protected areas such as indoors and courtyards, most mealybugs are active throughout the year. Image: Jonathan Garner

Mealybugs look like tiny bits of white cotton and often gather in hidden or protected spots on plants. Image: Daniel Nimmervoll/stock.adobe.com often breaks the natural balances by killing off everything where you’ve sprayed.

Nuking the area is a quick fix which often ties you to repeating the same process to manage the pest you’re trying to control.

Stepping through the process

Let’s set a scenario of using IPM to manage a common pest: mealybug.

There are numerous species of these soft-bodied insects that thrive throughout Australia. They look like tiny bits of white cotton and often gather in hidden or protected spots on plants – places like leaf joints, stems, and under leaves. They suck sap from the plant, weakening it over time, and infestations can cause stunted growth, yellowing leaves, leaf drop, and black sooty mould caused by the sticky honeydew they leave behind. They adore plants such as

Cordyline, Agapanthus, Clivia and most other strap-leaved plants where they can feed while staying hidden amongst developing leaves.

Saying this, there’s very few, if any, ornamentals that mealybug won’t feed on.

In areas exposed to the cold, their lifecycles slow down. Now it’s warming, eggs are hatching. In Queensland, and elsewhere in protected areas such as indoors and courtyards, mealybugs are active throughout the year.

Once I’ve got to know the pest and its lifecycle, here are the steps I take…

2. Mechanical control

1. Monitoring

Mealybugs have several natural enemies that help control their numbers. Consider buying and releasing plenty of these natural born killers over the warmer months. Trust me, in the right conditions, they work. Ladybeetles (especially the native mealybug hunter Cryptolaemus. Confusingly, the nymphs look much like the mealy bug), Lacewings, parasitic wasps and predatory beetles are good options.

Check out goodbugs.org for more information and suppliers.

A quick tip if you’re buying and releasing ladybeetles: invest in beetle bags to keep them close by until they acclimatise. They’ll arrive hungry and spread out fast in search of dinner.

Encouraging these helpful insects is an important part of IPM, and planting nectarrich plants and flowers tends to encourage and lure beneficials (although this might be tricky within the landscape asset).

Avoid using broad-spectrum insecticides which kill both pests and their predators, and control ants, which protect mealybugs from

Check the plants often and know what you’re looking at. Check your susceptible plants for signs of trouble. The earlier you catch mealybugs, the easier they are to control.

Look out for: • White, fluff y or cottony patches on leaves, stems, or fruit • Clusters of small, slow-moving white insects (adults are about 3mm–4mm long).

The young or nymphs are much smaller and have yet to grow the fluff y cotton • Sticky leaves or stems from their sugary excrements – aka ‘honeydew’ • Ants crawling on the plant as they feed on the honeydew and protect mealy bugs • Black sooty mould growing on sticky surfaces, and • Look beneath leaves, spaces around growing tips, or anywhere protected.

If you’re unsure, take a close-up photo and show it to your local nursery or garden centre.

You can also check online garden pest guides, such as those from Agriculture Victoria, NSW DPI, or local gardening websites.

If I notice a small number or an outbreak, I’ll rub them out with my fingers or spray the colony with a strong jet of water.

Blasting the colony can displace plenty of them. Interestingly, once they’re on the ground and no longer producing honeydew, the ants and other scavengers will often eat them. Reducing the colony size reduces plant injury and enables predators to clean them up much faster.

For heavy infestations consider pruning back the plant or even replacing it.

3. Biological control (the fun stuff)

www.landscapecontractor.com.au

21

Technical insight

Consider buying and releasing natural born killers over the warmer months. Ladybeetles, especially the native mealybug hunter Cryptolaemus are an option. Image: Alexey Protasov/ stock.adobe.com

predators in exchange for honeydew.

To control ants use sticky bands around trunks of trees or shrubs, or place ant baits near the base of infested plants.

4. Organic and low-toxicity sprays

As mentioned earlier, if mechanical and biological controls aren’t enough, try to focus on low-toxicity or organic sprays that are safe for your staff, clients and beneficial insects.

Understanding that we’re working within

The young or nymphs are much smaller and have yet to grow the fluffy cotton. Image: Jonathan Garner 22

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

commercial enterprises, organic approaches can be time-consuming and require regular follow ups. If you’re in a residential garden, consider engaging ‘customer participation’ where the client can monitor and treat outbreaks with these sprays.

Some options include: • Horticultural oils (White Oil or Eco-Oil).

These suffocate mealybugs and their eggs.

Spray thoroughly on all affected parts, including undersides of leaves. Reapply

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a holistic approach to managing pests every seven to 14 days if needed. Avoid spraying during hot weather (over 30°C) • Insecticidal soap. It must make contact to work, and needs to be reapplied after rain or as needed • Azamax (refined neem oil) disrupts feeding and reproduction and acts as a mild repellent. It’s safe for most beneficial insects when used properly. Always read and follow the label instructions and test on a small part of the plant first.

5. Chemical pesticides.

The last resort

If all other methods fail and the infestation is severe, consider using chemical insecticides in a strategic approach. Apart from pyrethrum and its synthetic versions, you won’t find anything punchy enough in the big hardware chain.

As most landscape professionals lack chemical certification, I won’t suggest effective chemicals. Those of us that are certified probably know which product to reach for.

If you’re at the garden centre or looking online, look for products that are systemic (absorbed by the plant and kills pests when they feed), and registered for mealybug control in home gardens.

When you are spraying: • Avoid spraying during flowering or when bees are active • Apply in the evening or early morning, and • Follow the label carefully, always wearing protective clothing.

Please remember most chemical sprays will kill beneficial insects and may also lead to pest resistance over time. Use them strategically, sparingly, and in combination with other IPM methods.

If you have to use them, learn about the chemical and its residual effect, knock out your pest, and invest in releasing a range of biological control once the residual effect has ended.

Failing to do this will likely result in another pest outbreak.

On the cover

A Husqvarna Automower® frees up a great deal of time for the property owner.

Husqvarna’s robotic mowers make acerage maintence easy!

Husqvarna Automower® robotic mowers are the smarter way to mow.

V

erduous Gardens launched in the year 2000 and today is a thriving business servicing properties in Sydney, the Central Coast and the Hunter Valley, ranging from courtyards to large rural properties, and specialising in prestige residential property maintenance, plant sculpting, hedging and pruning. The company is also a dealer for Husqvarna’s Automower® robotic mower, and it’s made this customer very happy.

Successful trial

Dave and Justine Mikkelsen run Fluid Plumbing, and while the business may be both time-consuming and successful, it hasn’t kept the couple and their children from establishing a truly beautiful home on fourand-half acres on the NSW central coast.

The gardens are spectacular, as are the vast, manicured stretches of lawn.

Keeping the property in such fabulous 24

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

condition took some commitment, so Dave was very interested when Verduous Gardens suggested he consider a Husqvarna Automower® robotic mower to take care of the mowing, freeing up some time for the business owner.

Having adopted the idea, it was only a month or so before Dave noticed the lawn in the ‘back paddock’ – the operating arena for the Automower® robotic mower – looked to be in exceptionally good condition. In a short time the first Automower® had been joined by a second, and then a third.

Easy with the app

The results were immediate, and both Dave and Justine were rapt with the Husqvarna robotic mowers.

“The time saving for Dave has been amazing,” said a smiling Justine.

“It means we can spend more time

enjoying the place and not feeling like it’s a chore that I have to work hard to keep looking that good,” added Dave.

Dan Barton, Operations Manager at Verduous Gardens installed the Automower® robotic mowers, and he’s just as happy with the results as the Mikkelsens. By installing three Automower® robotic mowers Dan has freed up a huge amount of his own time to take care of the finer, more detailed work around the property – like hedging and trimming. It’s clear to see how successful that’s been. The property looks amazing.

“Husqvarna has a dedicated smartphone app called Automower® Connect,” he explained. “As we install, we plot GPS locations of obstacles on the lawn to create virtual stay-out zones.”

There’s also an obstacle-avoidance feature on the Automower®, so if toys, tools or furniture are moved or left outside, the

Husqvarna robotic mower will automatically skirt around the obstacle and continue its work uninterrupted.

“I love how easy it is to use the Automower Connect app,” chimed in Dave.

“I use it to adjust how often it’s mowing – during Winter we only have it going every couple of days, and in Summer, every day.”

Environmentally sound

Dave went on to say how the lawns in general are consistently in much better condition because they’re being tended every day, with the very small grass clippings helping to enrich the soil.

But there’s more benefits than the just the considerable time which has been made available to the Mikkelsens by Husqvarna’s Automower® robotic mowers, as Justine pointed out.

“I love the fact that it’s silent,” she offered.

“There’s no noise pollution. Not to have a big, loud, ride-on mower going for an hour or two,” she chuckled, “it’s just awesome.”

Dan Barton, Operations Manager at Verduous Gardens. Images: Husqvarna

Brand fan

The Mikkelsens had owned several Husqvarna items before the Automower® robotic mowers, and Dave pointed out his experience with the brand played no small part in his decision.

“Every time I’ve ever needed to get anything fixed, Husqvarna has always stood behind the products it makes,” he said.

While both property owner Dave Mikkelsen and Verduous Gardens’ Dan Barton are very much impressed with the time the robotic-mower system has made available and the incredible presentation the Husqvarna equipment is maintaining on the lawns, Justine probably summed up the overall situation best.

“I love that they look after themselves,” she said of the Husqvarna robotic mowers.

“They’re quiet. They plug themselves in to charge, there’s no maintenance, and they just do what they do.”

Dave’s view is the same, but his approach is a little more lyrical.

“I would definitely rate Husqvarna’s robotic mowers ‘five stars’,” he offered, before leaning forward with a wry grin and saying, “because the lawn looks amazing and I don’t have to do anything about it.”

In a short time the first Automower® had been joined by a second, and then a third.

Dave and Justine Mikkelsen are rapt with the amount of time the Automowers free up for them.

There’s a huge list of features and several Husqvarna Automower® robotic mower models in the range. Log on to husqvarna.com/au/ to learn more. www.landscapecontractor.com.au

25

Video review

LiuGong 9035F ZTS mini excavator

LiuGong F-Series excavators are built to deliver a strong balance of performance, precision, and quality. Landscape Contractor magazine put the compact 9035F into a tight spot and was impressed with how well it performed.

L

iuGong’s been offering great earthmoving equipment in Australia for 20 years now, and the tech back-up and spares supply from national distributor LiuGong Australia and new Construction Distribution Australia (CDA) metro dealerships is as good as any.

Alongside that, the company has developed some impressive machinery which is now a common sight on Australian worksites.

For landscaping, a compact, efficient, zerotail-swing excavator can be a godsend.

Does the 9035F fit the bill?

We decided to find out.

Tech

With a maximum operating weight of 3800kg, the 9035F is a zero-tail-swing outfit powered by a Yanmar Stage V diesel offering 17.3kW (23.2hp). Maximum hydraulic flow is 99L/minute, and digging reach is 5385mm/5715mm. Bucket breakout force is 33kN, and it’s supplied with LiuGong’s quick coupler and three buckets – a mud bucket, a 300mm GP bucket, and a 450mm GP bucket.

The cabin and controls are comfortable and well designed, and overall, on first 26

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

inspection, the 9035 is a sharp-looking and very capable and efficient machine.

LiuGong says it’s “…easy to transport, simple to use and quick to maintain.”

By the time we’d worked through the list, Mat was in the cab, his teeth had stopped chattering thanks to the cabin heater, and he’d put the 9035F to work.

Features

Tight

As Mat Wandmaker ran his professional eye over the excavator – double checking the cab was in fact heated, and ensuring the temperature was cranked up – we had a quick look at the main points of the compact LiuGong, which included: • Zero tail swing • Powerful engine • Dozer blade control • Joystick controls • Advanced hydraulics • Local parts stock at CDA, and • Local field and machine servicing via CDA metro Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane locations.

We also noticed the cabin boasted a suspension seat and a touchscreen which controlled the machine’s hydraulics and kept the operator up-to-date with various functions and operating parameters.

As the video shows, the work site for this review didn’t leave a lot of room for error.

Fortunately, the zero tail swing and smooth action of the LiuGong meant the machine could do its work with a minimum of fuss.

Between the joystick controls and the operator screen in the cab, Mat found moving and digging the piled-up earth a breeze, and he was especially impressed with the performance of the engine.

“It’s punching out a lot of power,” he offered thoughtfully. “It’s easy to manoeuvre, it’s comfortable, everything’s at your fingertips, and it’s as smooth as silk.”

“The thing is flawless when it comes to manoeuvrability,” he continued. “There’s no issue or safety concern working next to the truck thanks to the zero tail swing, and the machine itself is phenomenal,” he said.

“I can’t fault it.”

A compact, efficient, zero-tail-swing excavator like the LiuGong 9035F can be a landscaping lifesaver.

A touchscreen controls the machine’s hydraulics and keeps the operator informed on various functions and operating parameters.

The 9035F handled the tight work site with ease.

Images: Prime Creative Media

See for yourself

Check out the video on the Landscape Contractor website or go to liugongaustralia. com.au to see the 9035F in action, and to hear Mat give his thoughts on several other facets of the LiuGong’s build and performance.

Go to cdau.com.au for the latest machinery stock from CDA, or liugongaustralia.com.au to see the 9035F in action.

It’s easy to manoeuvre, it’s comfortable, everything’s at your fingertips, and it’s as smooth as silk

www.landscapecontractor.com.au

27

Property maintenance Whether you choose a self-propelled or push battery mower, you’ll receive the quality, performance and durability expected from a Honda. Image: Honda

All you need for a better-looking lawn

Honda’s new generation of izyON™ battery lawnmowers – the HRG466 and HRG416 – offer quiet, clean and powerful mowing performance with zero-emissions.

H

onda’s Universal Battery System powers its entire 36V domestic battery range, mowers included, and it’s power that doesn’t compromise on cutting performance, allowing work with less noise, fewer breaks and in all weather conditions.

Honda’s izy-ON™ battery lawnmowers offer premium battery power with very little maintenance and no petrol. With both the self-propelled and push battery mower, the quality, performance and durability is as can be expected from a Honda.

Push or self-drive

The Honda HRG416 Battery Push Mower has a powerful 1.0kW brushless motor, six cutting-height positions, easy-start push button and a 41cm (16") pressed, powdercoated, steel deck. The high-powered and highly efficient motor ensures the battery energy can go as far as possible. At just 22.5kg, the manoeuvrability is excellent and the 42-litre capacity grass-cutting bag really 28

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

takes the strain out of caring for the garden.

For those needing that little extra, the Honda HRG466 Battery Self-Propelled Mower with its 1.8kW brushless motor, six height cutting positions, easy-start push button, and 46cm (18") pressed, powdercoated steel deck weighs in at just 27kg. It’s the first ever battery-powered mower to offer Versamow selective mulching, giving the option to bag or mulch the grass clippings which are then efficiently cut into ultrafine particles and used to create a natural fertiliser that is healthier for the lawn.

Botrh batteries (4Ah and 6Ah) in Honda’s Universal Battery System are compatible with the HRG416 and HRG466 mower, along with the domestic and contractor quality HHB36 Blower, HHT36 Brushcutter, HHH36 Hedge Trimmer and HHC36BXB Chainsaw.

The batteries all boast Thermo-Smart Technology to keep the battery cool, even in the most demanding conditions, and during long periods of use. With a fast charge time,

as little as 35 minutes, and a long-lasting battery, the options are endless.

Battery power is Honda power

Honda’s battery range is recommended for both residential and commercial users and is incredibly easy to use. Both batteries can be paired with one charger that will work across the entire commercial range to power mower, blower, brushcutter, hedge trimmer, and chansaw allowing the use of the same battery for every product you own.

Honda’s Universal Battery System and Battery Power Equipment are smart and sustainable options providing many great benefits for both the user and the environment. Lightweight design reduces worker fatigue and produces less noise, less vibration and zero-carbon emissions.

Visit your local Honda dealer to view the full range, or visit powerequipment.honda.com.au

No backyard bothers a Honda.

See the range at Honda.com.au or visit your local Honda dealer.

Property maintenance

The commercial edge of the Cub Cadet Pro Z Range

In the competitive world of commercial lawn care, Australian business operators need equipment that delivers reliability, efficiency, and durability.

The Cub Cadet Pro Z range is a standout choice, offering exceptional commercial advantages in key areas such as warranties, slope capability, and the durability of fabricated steel cutting decks from 48" to 72" wide.

The precision offered by the cutting decks ensures a clean, professional finish. Image: Cub Cadet 30

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

O

ne of the Pro Z range’s most compelling features is its industry-leading warranty coverage. For business operators, downtime due to equipment failure can be costly, impacting both profitability and customer satisfaction. Coupled with trusted Kawasaki power, Cub Cadet excels, with robust commercial warranties that safeguard the operator’s investment and ensure longterm reliability. This peace of mind allows businesses to focus on their operations without worrying about unexpected repair costs, enhancing productivity and reducing financial risks.

Superior slope capability with exclusive Synchro Steer™ technology

Australia’s varied landscapes often require mowing equipment capable of handling steep slopes and uneven terrain. The Cub Cadet Pro Z range excels in this area, thanks to its exclusive Synchro Steer™ technology.

This innovative system combines four-

wheel steering with exceptional traction control, enabling the Pro Z 972/972 SDL to easily handle slopes of up to 25 degrees.

For business operators, this capability opens doors to servicing properties with challenging topography, increasing their market reach and revenue potential.

Synchro Steer™ technology ensures precise control and safety, making it an invaluable asset for navigating Australia’s demanding environments.

Fabricated steel cutting decks for durability and precision

Durability is a critical factor in commercial lawn care, and the Cub Cadet Pro Z range delivers with its fabricated steel (up to 7 gauge) cutting decks.

Unlike stamped decks, fabricated steel decks are constructed with reinforced materials designed to withstand heavy-duty usage and harsh conditions. This durability reduces maintenance costs and extends the lifespan of the equipment, making it a very

cost-effective investment for businesses.

Additionally, the precision offered by these cutting decks ensures a clean, professional finish, boosting customer satisfaction and enhancing the reputation of lawn-care operators.

Trusted

For Australian business operators in the lawn-care industry, the Cub Cadet Pro Z range offers unmatched reliability, versatility, and durability. With comprehensive warranties, powerful engines, advanced slope capabilities powered by exclusive Synchro Steer™ technology, and a range of robust, fabricated-steel cutting decks, this equipment is more than a purchase – it’s a strategic investment in business growth and operational excellence from a trusted name in the outdoor-power-equipment industry, one which has been in business since 1961.

To learn more of the Cub Cadet range, go to cubcadet.com.au

The Cub Cadet Pro Z range is a standout choice

www.landscapecontractor.com.au

31

Property maintenance

Masport’s handheld power range Take control of your outdoor space.

W

hether you’re taming the backyard or maintaining large areas of land, having the right tools can make all the difference.

Masport, a name synonymous with quality outdoor power equipment, has developed a range of handheld line trimmers and brushcutters built to take the hard work out of garden and property maintenance.

When your weekend yard job starts looking more like a bush-clearing mission, reach for the MT40BH.

A simple twist of the handle allows the unit to be easily stored or transported.

Images: Masport

Built for everyday tasks – and the tough ones too

From everyday edging to taking down thick vegetation, Masport’s handheld range combines reliability, comfort and power.

Each tool in the lineup is fitted with a highperformance, low-emission engine that’s as easy to maintain as it is to start.

A durable, thick-walled aluminium shaft provides stability without unnecessary weight, and the straight-shaft models feature a Rapid Feed trimmer head for fast, hasslefree line replacement – perfect when time and efficiency matter most.

Better still, every model is backed

by Masport’s impressive five-year manufacturing warranty.

Versatility in your hands

For those who want convenience and precision, the MT23C is a lightweight curvedshaft line trimmer that makes light work of tight corners and edges. Ideal for home use, its ergonomic design and soft-start 22.5cc engine ensure smooth handling around trees, fences, and garden beds.

Need something more adaptable? The MT23SS offers the same power and ease 32

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

of use, but with a straight, split-shaft design that opens the door to a suite of optional attachments – including hedge trimmers, pole pruners, garden cultivators and more.

It’s a smart choice for those who want a multi-tool system that grows with their garden.

Stepping up in power, the MT26SS boasts a 26cc engine with 0.8kW output.

Still lightweight and easy to manoeuvre, this model is ideal for more demanding trimming tasks and professional-grade versatility – with the same attachment capability as the MT23SS.

Power meets endurance: the MT40BH brushcutter

When your weekend yard job starts looking more like a bush-clearing mission, reach for the MT40BH. This heavy-duty brushcutter is purposebuilt for serious growth – armed with a 40cc engine delivering 1.5kW of power,

plus the comfort and control of a bike-style handle, dual-strap harness, and integrated hip protector. The MT40BH includes both a heavy-duty, three-tooth grass blade and a rapid-feed trimmer head, offering true flexibility in one tool.

When the job’s done, a simple twist of the handle allows the unit to be compactly stored or transported with ease.

Discover the Masport difference

Every tool in Masport’s handheld range reflects the brand’s commitment to performance, durability, and user comfort, all backed by an industry-leading fiveyear warranty. Whether you’re a weekend gardener or a full-time landscaper, Masport has a solution that will help you work smarter, not harder.

To explore the full range, visit masport.com.au or speak with your local Masport dealer today.

THE NEW MASPORT LINE TRIMMERS & BRUSHCUTTERS ARE BUILT TO LAST Powerful, low-emission engines Thick-walled aluminium shaft tube Easily manoeuvrable 5 year warranty The comfort and control of a bike-style handle.

www.masport.com.au

1300 366 225

www.landscapecontractor.com.au

33

Property maintenance Autonomous Mowing Robots are a strategic asset which can extend the reach and productivity of staff.

Images: Colbrook Industries

The robotic mower advantage One of the most pressing and persistent issues currently facing contractors is the labour shortage. Enter robotic mowing.

A

ccording to the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP), over 80% of landscape companies report difficulty finding qualified workers. Entry-level workers are in short supply, and experienced crew members are even harder to retain. Many companies are turning down work or limiting their service areas simply because they don’t have the manpower to keep up with demand.

At the same time, the demand for landscape services – particularly in municipalities, infrastructure maintenance, and large-scale commercial properties – is on the rise. Contractors are caught in a frustrating paradox: more work is available, but there aren’t enough hands to do it.

This is where robotics steps in – not as a replacement for labour, but as a strategic asset to extend the reach and productivity of the workers contractors do have.

most labour-intensive and hazardous environments. These aren’t your average lawn mowers. They’re tracked, remoteoperated machines built to handle steep slopes, retention ponds, highway embankments, wet, waterlogged ground and overgrown or difficult-to-access properties.

“Before we added robotic mowers to our fleet, we had to send out three or four guys with line trimmers, just to handle slope work safely,” said Mat, owner of Clearscape Land Clearing in North Queensland. “Now, one crew member can tackle the entire site solo, using a remote control from a safe distance.”

This shift allows companies to redeploy valuable team members to other revenuegenerating tasks, like new projects, hardscaping, installation, or customer service, rather than spending hours on dangerous, strenuous and repetitive mowing jobs.

workers, but as an amplifier of workforce productivity.

“Labour has become the number-one challenge facing our customers,” said Brandt.

“Our robotic mowers allow them to do more with less, without compromising either quality or safety.”

This is especially relevant in rural or suburban regions where labour pools are smaller and crews are spread thin.

Companies using RC Mowers Remote Operated Mowers and Autonomous Mowing Robots are finding they can expand their service territories without hiring new workers or increasing overtime hours.

Some contractors have even been able to bid on, and win, projects they would’ve previously passed on due to staffing limitations.

One operator, multiple jobs

Addressing the labour shortage with technology

Aside from labour constraints, another persistent pain point in the landscaping business is risk, especially when it comes to mowing steep, uneven terrain and roadsides.

RC Mowers’ flagship machine, the Remote Operated Slope Mower, is designed to do the heavy lifting in some of the industry’s 34

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

RC Mowers CEO Michael Brandt describes the technology not as a replacement for

Turning risk into opportunity

RC Mowers’ remote-operated slope mowers remove the operator from the risk zone entirely. By standing at a safe distance and using a remote control, an operator can guide the mower across hillsides, ditches, and embankments without setting foot on the slope or near traffic.

For contractors, this translates into: • Fewer injuries, associated days off and workers’ compensation claims • Lower liability exposure • Improved safety ratings (potentially reducing insurance costs), and • Peace of mind for business owners and their crews.

In a time when the industry’s biggest constraint is labour, investing in a robotic workforce might just be the smartest hire you’ll ever make

RC Mowers’ remote-operated slope mowers remove the operator from the risk zone entirely.

Training and ease of use

Another key advantage of RC Mowers is how quickly crews can get up to speed. The machines are designed to be user-friendly, with intuitive controls and comprehensive training provided by their Australian dealer.

Colbrook Industries is the sole distributor of the RC Mowers brand in Australia, and offers extensive onsite training and virtual support to ensure contractors are confident in deploying their new equipment.

Cost, ROI, and long-term value

While the upfront investment in a robotic mower is significant, contractors who’ve made the leap often say it pays off faster than expected.

In many cases, the return on investment comes in under a year, thanks to savings in labour, time, fuel, and equipment wear and tear. And because the machines are engineered for rugged use, maintenance is minimal compared to traditional mowers.

The future is automated — and human-centered

Despite concerns robotics will replace jobs, most RC Mowers users see the technology as a way to support and retain their existing teams.

For today’s landscape contractor, solving the labour shortage is less about scrambling for talent and more about building smarter systems. RC Mowers’ robotic solutions are helping contractors reshape their operations, making them safer, more efficient, and ultimately more profitable.

Whether it’s municipal contracts, commercial properties, or DOT/Government work, robotic mowers give a clear edge in a competitive market. The technology is here, it’s proven, and it’s no longer a luxury – it’s a strategic necessity.

In a time when the industry’s biggest constraint is labour, investing in a robotic workforce might just be the smartest hire you’ll ever make. www.landscapecontractor.com.au

35

Property maintenance

36

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

Powering productivity

Kress Commercial trimmers are designed for pro use.

K Kress CyberPack batteries can reach a full charge in just eight minutes*, dramatically reducing downtime.

The KC120.9 is a modular solution for crews needing flexibility on the job. The quick-connect system allows fast tool changes.

With 1.5kW of output power, the Kress 100.9 is ideal for dense vegetation and challenging conditions. Images: Kress

ress offers a powerful trio of commercial-grade trimmers designed for professional landscapers: the KC100.9 rear motor trimmer, KC110.9 front motor trimmer, and KC120.9 combi-trimmer.

All three models are built around a 60V brushless motor, delivering the performance needed for demanding jobs, without the noise, emissions, or maintenance of traditional petrol equipment.

With a 42cm cutting width, 2.4mm/2.7mm line diameter, and IPX5 water resistance, they’re built to handle demanding Australian conditions. Features like a quick-load trimmer head, variable-speed trigger, and lowvibration operation ensure comfort, control, and efficiency across every task.

Models

The KC100.9 is designed for balance and control, with its rear-mounted motor offering excellent weight distribution for extended use. With 1.5kW of output power, equivalent to a 35cc petrol engine, it’s ideal for dense vegetation and challenging conditions. Its heavy-duty steel driveshaft and aluminium gearhead make it a reliable choice for demanding commercial work.

Landscapers will appreciate its three speed settings, LED control panel, and ergonomic design for precision and durability in tough environments.

The KC110.9 features a front-mounted motor that enhances balance and manoeuvrability, making it ideal for precision landscaping tasks. With 0.9kW of output power, it delivers reliable performance across varied landscaping tasks. Its quickload trimmer head, variable-speed trigger, and lightweight 3.0kg design reduce fatigue and improve control. Built with a rigid steel driveshaft and aluminium gearhead, it’s engineered for durability and quiet operation in noise-sensitive environments.

The KC120.9 combi-trimmer stands out for its versatility. Compatible with multiple attachments, including edging and brushcutting tools, it’s a modular solution for crews needing flexibility on the job. The quickconnect system allows fast tool changes, reducing the need for multiple machines and streamlining workflow. Like its trimmer counterparts, it features a 42cm cutting width, 2.4mm line, and an IPX5 rating, making it suitable for all-weather use.

CyberSystem

What sets these trimmers apart is the Kress CyberSystem, a commercial-grade battery and charging platform that redefines cordless performance. Kress CyberPack batteries can reach a full charge in just eight minutes*, dramatically reducing downtime.

Crews can swap batteries and resume work almost instantly, keeping productivity high throughout the day. With a guaranteed lifespan of 3000 charge cycles, these batteries offer long-term value and lower total cost of ownership.

Benefits

• Boosted productivity: high-performance motors and ultra-fast charging allow crews to work continuously with minimal downtime. Landscapers can complete more jobs in less time, increasing operational efficiency.

• Ergonomics and safety: Kress trimmers operate with significantly lower noise and vibration, reducing operator fatigue and enabling work in sensitive environments like schools and residential areas. The absence of exhaust fumes creates a healthier workspace for both operators and the community.

• Economic and environmental impact: switching to battery-powered tools eliminates fuel costs and reduces maintenance, significantly lowering operational costs and boosting profitability.

This transition also supports sustainability goals, helping businesses appeal to ecoconscious clients and comply with evolving regulations.

Smarter and cleaner

Kress is driving the future of commercial landscaping with tools that combine power, precision, and sustainability. The KC100.9, KC110.9, and KC120.9, backed by the CyberSystem, equip professionals to tackle any job with confidence, meet environmental expectations, and grow their business using smarter, cleaner technology.

To learn more, visit an authorised Kress dealer or head to Kress.com * When charging KAC804 4Ah or KAC810 11Ah Kress CyberPack batteries with the KAC875A CyberTank Charger in boost mode.

www.landscapecontractor.com.au

37

Case study

Juan Jose Fernandez, owner of The Mower Goat, has two Bobcat ZT2000s. Image: The Mower Goat 38

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

Bobcat and The Mower Goat This Gold Coast property-maintenance outfit is firm in its view that choosing Bobcat was a smart move.

W

e didn’t get the chance to ask Juan Jose Fernandez how he came to name his business ‘The Mower Goat’, but it’s a question which deserves an answer, and perhaps we’ll pursue it in the future.

Meanwhile, there’s no doubt about the pace of Juan and his company. The Mower Goat is running full throttle at the moment.

Trying to get Juan to sit and talk to us wasn’t all that easy.

Maybe not, but it was interesting.

Bobcat X 2

The Mower Goat offers a suite of propertymaintenance services which include lawn maintenance and gardening, garden clean up, small irrigation systems, turf laying and plenty more. The website sums it up with The Mower Goat being ‘...committed to creating breathtaking outdoor spaces that reflect your unique style and provide a serene escape for you to enjoy’.

Like any property-maintenance concern, mowing plays a big part in The Mower Goat’s activities, and to service that market, Juan has two Bobcats.

The ZT2000

“We started working with Bobcat in the middle of last year,” said Juan. “At the moment, we have two ZT2000s. They’re both 42" models.”

The ZT2000 is a heavy hitter in the zeroturn market, and Bobcat says it offers “… more commercial-grade features than other

Hydro-Gear ZT-2800 hydrostatic transaxles deliver smooth and simple operation. Images: Bobcat of Australia zero-turn mowers in the same price range,” and, “It’s the perfect model for people who want durability and a professional cut at a lower cost.”

Superior cutting-deck airflow and discharge, deck-height adjustments that can be made on the fly, and smooth operation are among the main features of the ZT2000.

Kawasaki FR series engines provide the drive, Hydro-Gear ZT-2800 hydrostatic transaxles deliver smooth and simple operation with heavy-duty output torque and ground speeds up to 11.2kph, and the TufDeck cutting The Bobcat ZT2000 offers more commercial-grade features than other zero-turn mowers in the same price range.

system has durable, steel-fabricated spindle assemblies to handle the toughest jobs.

The right choice

When Landscape Contractor magazine asked if Juan was happy with his decision to run Bobcats, he couldn’t have been more decisive.

“Investing in Bobcat machinery was a game changer for us,” he said. “The speed, reliability, and heavy-duty performance have helped us take on larger jobs, perform tasks more efficiently, and deliver better results to our loyal customers.”

And what led him to choose Bobcat in the first place?

“It’s the reputation of a reliable brand and tough construction,” he outlined. “Compared to other brands in-store, you can clearly see the difference in materials used for the chassis, decks, and other components. All of these factors make a significant difference when pushing the machines to their limits in a commercial setting.”

Too true, that.

Before we could frame another question Juan was away, keen to get back to work and to see his Bobcats were being kept busy.

There’s plenty of information available on the ZT2000 at bobcatofaustralia.com.au – log on and check them out. www.landscapecontractor.com.au

39

Video review

Masport brands the TTM102RH V-twin as a ‘lawn tractor’ rather than just a ride-on, a nod to its versatility.

Masport TTM102RH Masport says its TTM range of ride-ons are powerful, balanced and very comfortable for the operator. Landscape Contractor took out the new rear-bagger model for a test drive to find out how the reardischarge unit differs from its side-discharge cousins in the TTM range.

W

hen Landscape Contractor magazine needs sensible opinions from an experienced operator, Mat Wandmaker of Blue Ridge Property Maintenance is our go-to guy. Mat’s driven, ridden, pushed and punished just about every type and class of landscaping machinery and tools there are.

When he came away so impressed with the Masport TTM102RH, you can bet we sat up and took notice.

Features

Masport brands the TTM102RH as a ‘lawn tractor’ rather than just a ride-on, and we’re guessing that’s something to do with not 40

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

just the look of the machine, but with its versatility. The list of features is impressive, and includes: • The Masport MVT500 Series 586cc V-Twin 19HP engine • A 40" (102m) steel rear-discharging cutting deck • An alloy spindle housing to keep bearings cooler • A Tuff Torq® K46 transmission • A mulch option • Modern LED lights • An electromagnetic clutch which allows engaging and disengaging the cutting blades with the pull of a switch

• A pivoting steel front axle • Reverse Mode Operation (RMO) which allows mowing while in reverse • A steel front bumper • A 7.5-litre translucent fuel tank • Front 15 x 6.00-6, and Rear 18 x 8.50-8 wheels • Seven-position cutting range from 30mm90mm cut height • Adjustable high-back seat • Ergonomically positioned controls • Deck wash for easy cleaning • Anti-scalp wheels • Park brake, and • Tow hitch.

On board

Mat had driven the TTM108SH V-twin previously, which is the platform for the new unit, which, thanks to the catcher, is now designated ‘rear bagger’, and designed for those who want to leave a cleaner finish to a job. All the clippings and leaves and whatever else the mower picks up are thrown into the rear catcher, and it can be emptied by the operator without leaving the seat, thanks to a lever just behind his or her right elbow.

Mat was very keen on the 40" deck and the fact it would take a mulch plug, and that the unit itself cut so cleanly.

“The beauty about this particular deck,” he explained, twirling his fingers in demonstration, “is the blades counterrotate, so they’re both spitting the grass right up into that rear hopper.”

Mat was also particularly impressed with the front bumper being a standard feature, and the simplicity of the heel-andtoe control. He demonstrated how it made selecting forward and reverse a smooth and seamless process which lost a minimum of time. He was also quite excited about the ease of a push button on the dash which kept the blades cutting while the mower was reversing.

The silver push button on the dash keeps the blades cutting while the mower’s reversing.

Images: Prime Creative Media

Mat’s thoughts

The rear catcher is obviously a focal point on the TTM102RH, and something which received a fair amount of attention during the video shoot.

Mat was a fan.

“The catcher holds a staggering 245 litres of grass or material,” he said, clearly in approval. “It’s just phenomenal.”

“It’s easy to dump from sitting in the chair. You just pull up the lever and pull it forward, and the waste all comes out. It’s so simple!” he beamed.

He also pointed out the tow hitch was a standard fitting, and then went all gooey with excitement because the Masport had a cup holder.

The TTM MVT500 series engine is a proven power plant.

See for yourself

It’s an impressive machine, there’s no doubt about that, and Mat points out the various features and puts the TTM102RH V-twin through its paces on the video, which you can watch on the Landscape Contractor website.

Log on to landscapecontractor.com.au for that, and to see more detail on the TTM102RH and the TTM range of mowers through Masport, go to masport.com.au www.landscapecontractor.com.au

41

Paving and decking

Set the deck framing at a pitch of between 1% and 2% to slope away from the building site. Images: Trex

Expert tips for a water-resistant deck

It’s common knowledge among professional builders that water is the enemy of timber and the leading cause of deterioration for decks. It can lead to mould, mildew, rot, and premature deck failure. To prevent moisture from undermining your next installation, here are four tips to keep in mind…

Survey the slope

Water must drain away from a deck structure.

Set the deck framing at a pitch of between 1% and 2% to slope away from the building site.

Consider adding a French drain (also known as an engineered trench), reservoir, or other means to redirect the water or collect it for use in watering a garden or planting area.

42

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

Protect the substructure

The lumber used in deck building is pressure-treated to be water-resistant – not waterproof. To protect a deck’s structural elements from moisture and rot, it’s critical to apply flashing tape, such as Trex® Protect, over all the joinery and blocking.

Designed specifically for decking applications, these self-adhesive butyl tapes are available in sizes for use on joists, bearers, and rims. They also seal deck fasteners, helping screws to hold longer and stronger by preventing moisture penetration and defending against splitting that can result from seasonal freezing and thawing.

SCAN FOR WEBSITE

DELIVER MORE OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE with dry space below deck The Trex® RainEscape® system installs above the joists of a deck to shield the entire foundation.

Lumber used in deck building is pressure-treated to be water-resistant – not waterproof

A UNIQUE UNDER-DECK DRAINAGE SYSTEM THAT CREATES A DRY SPACE BENEATH YOUR ELEVATED DECK

trexrainescape.com

SCAN FOR WEBSITE

Use low-maintenance decking

Timber decks can be beautiful, but any timber, whether pressuretreated lumber, cedar, or exotic hardwood, must be cleaned regularly and coated every few years to keep it looking good and prevent water damage. That’s why composite and PVC boards, which are practically impervious to water, continue to gain popularity. They require little upkeep and last for decades.

Divert water with a deck drainage system

For a more comprehensive waterproofing solution for your substructure, consider installing a deck drainage system.

Designed for use on elevated decks, these systems capture and divert water away from a deck. This not only protects the foundation from moisture penetration, but also keeps the space beneath the deck dry and usable for storage or as an additional outdoor living area.

Offering maximum protection, the Trex® RainEscape® system installs above the joists of a deck to shield the entire foundation. It also allows homeowners to discreetly run gas and electrical lines beneath the drainage system and a soffit ceiling to power lights, ceiling fans, appliances, and electronic components.

For more waterproofing tips, visit TrexProtect.com and trexrainescape.com

STOP DECK ROT before it starts PREMIUM BUTYL TAPE PROTECTS DECK JOISTS AND BEARERS FROM MOISTURE, PREVENTING TIMBER ROT AND DECAY

trexprotect.com/au © 2025 Trex Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Trex® RainEscape® products are manufactured and sold by IBP, LLC under a Trademark License Agreement with Trex Company, Inc. RainEscape® is a federally registered trademark of IBP, LLC.

www.landscapecontractor.com.au

43

Construction equipment

Environmentally friendly excavation

The Ditch Witch AX30-300, developed exclusively for the Australian market, is an excavation powerhouse.

Images: CEA Ditch Witch

With powerful suction and precise excavation control, the Ditch Witch AX30300 Vacuum Excavator efficiently removes soil and debris.

Ditch Witch AX30-300

T

he Ditch Witch AX30-300, developed exclusively for the Australian market, is an excavation powerhouse.

Equipped with a 32.5HP Kubota diesel engine, the Ditch Witch AX30-300 delivers maximum power and performance while reducing damage to underground utilities and infrastructure when removing soil and debris.

Must-have

Vacuum excavation is becoming more and more popular over traditional excavation methods for many infrastructure projects. It’s regarded as safer and more environmentally sound, and is even being specified in some council and LAG scope of works.

The Ditch Witch AX30-3000 offers a vacuum-tank capacity of 1135L (300 gallons), and has the largest spoils tank available on a 4.49T GVM trailer in Australia.

Other benefits include a cam-over autolocking hydraulic rear door, hydraulic motor system for tank lift and tilt functions, curbside controls, hose reel and tooling that can always be left connected, and reverse flow control.

44

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

It also comes equipped with a silenced power pack to keep noise to a minimum without sacrificing performance.

• Engine: Kubota • Power: 32.5hp • Vacuum-tank capacity: 1135 litres (300 gallons) • Vacuum: 576 CFM • Water-tank capacity: 378 litres (100 gallons)

Easy to maintain

All maintenance points are accessible, with a lift-off power-pack door design and a highcapacity cyclonic filtration system minimising filter-cleaning frequency, and the AX30-300’s high-performance engine and advanced vacuum-excavation technology place it at the very forefront of its field.

With an operator-friendly design, the machine proves itself as a true partner for the landscape-construction industry and remains a top choice for contractors.

Supplied on a heavy-duty galvanised Australian ADR-compliant trailer, Ditch Witch CEA has retail branches across Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney, and is ready to assist with all equipment needs.

Savings

Through saving time, labour and costs, as well as reducing surface disruption and minimising the risk of damaging utilities,

The AX30-300’s high-performance engine and advanced vacuum excavation technology place it at the very forefront of its field. vacuum excavation is fast becoming the preferred method for excavation jobs.

For more information on the AX30-300 and the Ditch Witch range of equipment visit ditchwitchcea.com.au

DITCH WITCH

AX30 VACUUM EXCAVATOR Class leading 1,135L (300-gallon) tank

BUILT TO TACKLE AUSTRALIAN CONDITIONS Heavy duty Australian manufactured trailers available (built to meet all ADR’s)

High capacity filter for increased uptime

32.5hp Kubota diesel engine

Cam-over hydraulic rear door Kerbside mounted controls, tooling and hose reel

DIG DEEPER DIG SMARTER. EXPERIENCE THE DITCH WITCH DIFFERENCE. The Ditch Witch AX30 Vacuum Excavator has been designed to conquer Australia’s unique environmental challenges. With powerful suction and precise excavation control, our machines efficiently remove soil and debris, minimising damage to underground utilities and infrastructure.

TRUCK & TRAILER MOUNTED OPTIONS AVAILABLE

Contact us today to learn more about our full range of trailer and truck mounted vacuum excavators and how they can revolutionise your operations.

Contac t your nearest branch today

1300 788 757

ditchwitchcea.com.au

BRISBANE - SYDNEY - MELBOURNE ADELAIDE - PERTH

Construction equipment

Grading done right Bell Equipment, in partnership with Hitachi Construction Machinery, will soon introduce the Bell G140 motor grader.

The G140 grader is well suited to all maintenance and light to medium construction tasks.

46

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

A

new era in grading solutions is on the horizon for Australia, with the arrival of Bell Equipment’s new G140 Grader, to be followed in 2026 by the company’s full range of joystick-controlled motor graders.

The development marks a significant expansion of Bell Equipment’s offerings in Australia, specifically targeting local government and light-to-medium construction.

Models

The launch of the G140 leverages decades of combined experience shared between Bell Equipment and Hitachi Construction Machinery (HCA) in distributing and supporting graders tailored to Australia’s unique demands.

The Bell Motor Grader range consists of three base models: the G140, G160 and G200, each available in either a 4WD or 6WD configuration.

The G140 is well suited to all maintenance and light to medium construction tasks, including road-maintenance grading, site preparation, and finishing work.

The G160, with its increased power and performance, is designed to handle heavy construction applications, while the G200 is designed for bulk earthworks and the mining industry.

Key features

Powered by a Cummins QSB6.7 Stage 3A engine – with the option for Stage 5 – and paired with a ZF ERGOPOWER transmission, the G140 is designed for reliability and performance. It typically features a 14ft (4267mm) high-strength moldboard and has a typical operating weight of about 21,289 kilograms for the 6x4 configuration. Bell also offers a 6x6 configuration for this model.

The use of globally recognised components such as Cummins engines and ZF transmissions is a strategic decision. The aim was to enhance customer confidence in the machine’s reliability while simplifying maintenance and parts availability across Australia.

Automation was a key focus during the design process, allowing the operator to focus on precision grading.

While retaining familiar controls and layouts, the G140 incorporates a range of advanced components and features that will help operators improve productivity and accuracy, maintain costs, and deliver work efficiently, providing key benefits – such as saving on fuel and operating costs – as well as enhanced serviceability. These include fully sealed circle bearings, which

The G140 incorporates a range of advanced components and features that will help operators improve productivity and accuracy, maintain costs, and deliver work efficiently. Images: Hitachi CA extend service intervals, ensure consistent performance, and eliminate the need for costly wear inserts and regular adjustments.

To further simplify operations, advanced diagnostics are incorporated into the machine to reduce the complexity of daily checks and servicing while supported by HCA’s national network.

Ideal for Australia

Ideal for tasks requiring accurate grade control, the G140 guarantees precision.

Modern engine technology contributes to lower operating costs, while a certified steel cab frame guarantees safety and comfort.

The G140’s gooseneck main frame is engineered as a single piece, eliminating fatigue on fabricated joints and providing maximum confidence in hard applications, and HCA Product Manager David Gallina said the grader was a right-sized solution for Australian conditions.

“The G140 is backed by decades of proven grader expertise and reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering reliable, practical equipment that meets local needs,” he said.

Well-rounded partnership

Hitachi said the introduction of the Bell graders signifies a continuation of Bell and HCA’s long-term commitment to the Australian grader sector.

Bell Equipment, a globally recognised OEM with over 70 years of experience, is renowned

for its articulated dump trucks and a diverse range of equipment for various industries, while HCA contributes decades of specific experience in distributing and supporting motor graders across Australia, with an unparalleled understanding of local customer needs and operating conditions.

This partnership combines Bell’s engineering and manufacturing expertise with HCA’s deep market knowledge, established customer relationships, and proven support capabilities.

Western launch

The Local Government Works Association Local Government Conference at Joondalup Resort in WA in August served as the primary launch platform for the Bell G140.

The conference was ideally positioned to offer direct access to key decision makers within the local-government sector, a primary target market for the G140. The machine was on display, and promised suitability for maintenance and light construction tasks, all while highlighting its precision, reliability, efficiency, and operator comfort.

These strengths are underpinned by decades of proven capability and the unmatched local support and expertise of Hitachi Construction Australia.

The event positioned the G140 not as a new venture, but as the next evolution in a long-standing commitment to the Australian grader market. www.landscapecontractor.com.au

47

Construction equipment

New era for LiuGong with exclusive metro dealerships.

RISING levels of support for the growing LiuGong equipment range across Australia’s civil, construction and mining industries are in for a turbo-boost, particularly catapulting the brand in key metropolitan markets along the eastern seaboard.

Flagship dealerships

In a big metropolitan move for the business, LiuGong Australia has announced the establishment of exclusive flagship dealerships at Wetherill Park in Sydney and Truganina in Melbourne, as well as at Wacol in Brisbane.

The new Construction Distribution Australia (CDA) dealerships, which are backed by the industry’s powerful McIntosh Group, add to, and will further support, the brand’s extensive network of about 80 dealers located around the country, as well as local parts depots and trained product support staff.

LiuGong Australia’s Liam McCormick said it had been an amazing growth story for the LiuGong brand in Australia over the past two decades and the new CDA dealerships would open another exciting chapter, especially for its impact in metropolitan areas.

“LiuGong has risen to be a leading equipment provider in market segments like wheel loaders and it’s fast approaching the same with numerous other machines,” Liam said. “The range has come a long way to now offer similar or greater performance to premium brands, and now with the styling to match, and this is increasingly being recognised by businesses and industry operators.

48

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

“The recent arrival of LiuGong’s electric equipment range has also had a big impact and it is clearly leading the pack with this technology in Australia. It has been developing electric machines for 15 years, it has 11 product lines, it’s launched over 90 products across most market segments, and it has amassed well over 11 million hours on battery electric vehicles around the world.

“The CDA dealerships are in a very strong position to support the increasing demand for LiuGong’s electric range and it will be an exciting phase that will really drive the brand in the metropolitan and wider markets. The dealerships are already coordinating electric machine trials with various major Australian companies.”

Faster deliveries and service

Liam said having the dealerships solely focused on LiuGong and staffed with expert service technicians and product-support teams was a great step for the brand.

“The LiuGong brand has become big in Australia quite quickly. The network is strong in regional areas across the country and has been for over 20 years, so it is good to add further weight to that and now strengthen it in metropolitan areas.”

“CDA has extensive experience in sales and customer support. Service technicians

and parts staff receive specialist LiuGong training on the full range of products, systems and technical data to ensure the highest levels of servicing and support.

“In addition to sales staff, technicians are on the road and on-site, so operators can pop in to the dealerships at any time for any technical support and parts supplies. They can be assured that it is the highest level in LiuGong servicing.

“We have had a lot of positive feedback from LiuGong owners who are already benefitting from having a local service technician to ask technical questions, or being able to order emergency parts.

“The dealerships will also assist the optimisation of machines prior to delivery, which will enable faster deliveries and service, and they will help to manage machine allocation across the dealer network more effectively.”

Looking forward

Liam said with the surging product sales and strengthening foundations now across all markets, LiuGong Australia and CDA were certainly looking forward to the new era for the brand in Australia.

To keep up to date with LiuGong in Australia, log on to liugongaustralia.com.au

The sales, parts and service team at Construction Distribution Australia (CDA) in Melbourne, pictured at the premises in Truganina, exclusively supporting the LiuGong brand.

Images: LiuGong Australia

CDA’s James Lipman is pictured alongside one of the latest additions to LiuGong’s F Series excavator range, the 33-tonne 933F model, supporting Sydney and wider region operators from Wetherill Park.

Pictured with one of LiuGong’s powerful wheel loaders, Damien McCormick is excited to be heading up CDA’s team for LiuGong in Brisbane.

READY TO HIT THE LANDSCAPE HIGH PERFORMANCE EASY MAINTENANCE BEST VALUE Contact your local dealer liugongaustralia.com.au

TOUGH WORLD. TOUGH EQUIPMENT. www.landscapecontractor.com.au

49

Construction machinery

On course for success A new JCB 532-70 Agri telehandler is already proving a good bet at a Queensland racecourse.

P

lenty of work goes on behind the scenes at Caloundra’s Sunshine Coast Turf Club.

Keeping the track and its surrounds in the best shape possible is exacting, non-stop work.

But the recent purchase of a JCB 532-70 Agri telehandler has made one of those unglamorous and unappreciated daily tasks much easier and more efficient.

Murray Weeding spent more than two decades as racecourse and facilities manager before moving into a new role overseeing infrastructure projects and asset management.

“We’re initiating a new waste-management system for the stables at the track,” he explained. “At the moment, we basically utilise two 40-litre wheelie bins and might have 150 or 160 wheelie bins every day that our guys are manually handling. We’re going to use the telehandler with 2.8m bulk bins for waste manure, and then, with the rotating forks, we’ll be able to unload into a semi tipper to manage it in bulk.”

Sunshine Coast Turf Club has recently purchased a JCB 532-70 Agri telehandler. Images: Murray Weeding 50

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

A sure thing

It was a word-of-mouth recommendation that led to the initial enquiry and a good dealership experience that got the purchase over the line.

“We had some good referrals from others doing the same sort of work,” Weeding recounted. “They used JCB as well, and the referral they gave based on the experience they’d had was that it’s really the one to go for. They’d 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 said Wideland was happy to organise a loan machine for the club to test its suitability.

“Paul was very proactive and provided us with a loaner which we hired for a couple of weeks and basically got a feel for it,” Weeding said. “Wideland went out of its way, which is great, and our experience has been nothing

but positive. Paul and the guys at Wideland were great and the service and back up is really strong.”

Trusted design

JCB’s 532-70 Agri telehandler offers a 150hp (112kW) engine, has a 7m maximum lift height and 3200kg maximum lift capacity.

A top speed of 40kph is ideal for moving quickly between locations, and the new CommandPlus cab gives operators plenty of comfort during long days on the job.

It also offers a 12% increase in size, 50% reduction in cabin noise and a 14% increase in upward visibility compared to previous models, all of which combine to create what JCB describes as a best-in-class cabin.

JCB’s DieselMAX engine drives the machine, and regenerative hydraulics harness gravitational force to reduce excessive revving.

Boom-end damping improves material retention and makes for a smoother work cycle, while auto bucket control makes it easier to fully empty material from a bucket or fork via

A great deal of wheelie-bin manual handling will be replaced with two 2.8m bulk bins thanks to the JCB.

an easy-to-access 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.

Finally, hydraulic hoses are routed through the boom for maximum protection.

New toy

The JCB telehandler has been an interesting experience for its new operators.

As the current waste-management system will be a vastly different to the previous method, there’s been some settling in.

“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,” Weeding offered.

“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.”

The JCB’s part in waste management will be just one of many jobs it will handle.

“I think it’ll be quite a multi-use machine,” said Weeding cheerfully. “It’s certainly got the makings of being of 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.”

Our experience has been nothing but positive

To find your nearest JCB dealer visit jcbcea.com.au or phone 1300 522 232. www.landscapecontractor.com.au

51

Case study Manny has a gift for creating interesting, eye-catching and safe play areas. Images: Louise Conville

For any outfit specialising in children’s play areas, the quality and supply of soft-fall materials is critical. A1 Rubber hits the mark for one westernSydney company, and has done for a long time.

M

anuel’s Landscaping & Maintenance is a hard-working and versatile outfit, led by Manuel ‘Manny’ Rojas. Landscape Contractor magazine speaks to a lot of landscapers and industry identities, but few can bring as much good humour and sincerity into a work day as Manny.

“I offer a full package of landscaping services,” offered the owner and director of the Liverpool, NSW-based business.

“Retaining walls, fencing, wetpour rubber, decking, playgrounds, and I’m all about safety for kids.”

Project-specific

A1 Rubber and Manuel’s Landscaping & Maintenance 52

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

While the list of services offered by Manuel’s is comprehensive, it’s Australian-standardsapproved playgrounds which are the company’s specialty.

It’s also clearly Manny’s passion, just as clear is his gift for creating interesting, eyecatching and safe play areas.

Manny uses A1 Rubber products, including Shockpad underlays, Opal EPDM paths and playground surfaces, and he installs a lot of Playform animals. As the images here show, Manny’s work offers playground users fabulous opportunities for imaginative interaction with the installations.

From residential to commercial projects, Manny and his experienced team deliver high-quality results that exceed Australian standards.

When Landscape Contractor magazine asked which of A1 Rubber products he used most often, Manny laughed aloud – he laughs a lot – and said, “Oh…all of them, Man!” with a fruity chuckle. “It depends on the project.”

It did turn out there were a few staples.

Playform

A1 Rubber’s Playform range of animals and shapes brings creativity and fun to playgrounds, early learning centres, and recreational spaces. Made from durable, Australian-recycled rubber, the colourful 3D forms are designed to encourage imaginative play, physical interaction, and safe exploration with their soft, grippy surface. With a range

of Australian animals as well as rocks and domes, each Playform piece adds visual interest and inclusive play for children of all ages and abilities.

A1 Rubber’s Playform range is a playful and sustainable addition to any outdoor or indoor play area.

Shockpads

A1 Rubber’s Shockpad underlays are specially engineered to provide critical impact protection, ensuring guaranteed compliance with Australian Standards for fall-height requirements.

Manufactured using recycled tyre rubber, these underlays offer consistent shock absorption and long-term durability, making them ideal for playgrounds, childcare centres, and sports areas. A1 Rubber’s Shockpads are easy to install and suitable for use under both wetpour rubber surfacing, as well as under synthetic grass.

Opal EPDM

A1 Rubber’s Opal EPDM is a vibrant, premium EPDM rubber granule designed for applications requiring bold colour options

Australian-standards approved playgrounds are the company’s specialty. for exciting designs. Made from virgin EPDM rubber and available in a range of bright colours, Opal EPDM is formulated for the Australian climate and offers great UV stability thanks to its high EP content.

Sticking with it

Manuel’s Landscaping & Maintenance has been using A1 Rubber products for nearly two decades, and it’s a partnership which looks set to continue.

Manny seems very happy with the product

and service, that’s for sure.

“I’ve been using their products since I started,” he glowed.

“It’s up and down depending on the job, but sometimes I need a lot of product, a big range or large quantities, and A1 Rubber is always all right with me.

“They’ve been really good. That’s why I stick with them.”

The full catalogue of A1 Rubber products can be viewed at a1rubber.com

www.landscapecontractor.com.au

53

NEW PRODUCT LAUNCHES Eye on the industry

New commercial robotic mowers the advanced features of our new range of commercial Automower® models, set to Husqvarna hasExplore introduced four new advanced robotic mowers launch soon. Free up your time, reduce your carbon footprint, and focus on other important designed for larger-capacity green-space maintenance. projects on your golf course or sports fields.

A

t the recent Australian Sports Turf Management Association Conference in Sydney, NSW, Husqvarna unveiled and demonstrated four new commercial Automower® models, each aimed at reducing carbon footprint and freeing up the time of groundskeeping staff to focus on other important maintenance projects.

Here’s a quick rundown on the new models. To find out more scan the QR code below.

HUSQVARNA AUTOMOWER® 560 EPOS •

Work area cutting capacity: up to 12,000m²

•

Virtual, wire-free boundaries with EPOS™ technology & editable maps

•

Selectable, efficient mowing patterns available

•

Object avoidance via radar

•

5 blade cutting disc for higher cutting quality and performance

LEARN MORE

HUSQVARNA AUTOMOWER® 580 EPOS

Automower® can keep large green spaces in first-class condition.

Image: Husqvarna

LEARN MORE

•

Work area cutting capacity: up to 12,000m²

•

Virtual, wire-free boundaries with EPOS™ technology & editable maps

•

Selectable, efficient mowing patterns available

•

Object avoidance via radar

•

5 blade cutting disc for higher cutting quality and performance

HUSQVARNA AUTOMOWER® 580 L EPOS •

Work area cutting capacity: up to 16,000m²

•

High-performance mower with precise cutting down to 10mm

•

Virtual, wire-free boundaries with EPOS™ technology & editable maps

•

Selectable, efficient mowing patterns available

•

5-blade disc for a cleaner cut and better performance

LEARN MORE

HUSQVARNA AUTOMOWER® 535 AWD EPOS

LEARN MORE

54

•

Work area cutting capacity: up to 6,000m2

•

High-performance mower with all-wheel drive for sloping terrain up to 70% (35o)

•

Virtual, wire-free boundaries with EPOS™ technology & editable maps

•

Selectable, efficient mowing patterns available

•

5-blade disc for a cleaner cut and better performance

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

EXPERT OPINION: WHITEPAPERS Sign up to our newsletter to receive a copy of our

Eye on the industry

s

Squad members will undertake an intensive training program.

Image: WorldSkills Australia

Aussie skills talent gears up for the world stage

WorldSkills Australia has announced the 39 rising stars who’ll make up its national training squad. It’s the first step toward selection for Team Australia which will compete at the 48th WorldSkills Competition held in Shanghai, China, in September 2026.

T

he squad includes high-performing apprentices, trainees and young professionals from every state and territory who excelled at the recent WorldSkills Australia National Championships in Brisbane, earning medals across 35 different skill categories, ranging from carpentry and plumbing to landscape gardening.

World stage

Over the coming months, squad members will undertake an intensive training program, and those selected for the final team will represent Australia, competing against more than 1400 peers from over 60 countries in the

world’s largest skills-excellence event.

The announcement coincides with the launch of National Skills Week, an initiative that champions vocational education and highlights the critical role of skills-based careers in shaping Australia’s future workforce and economy.

The training squad was officially launched at a special event at Parliament House in Canberra on September 1, attended by Minster for Skills and Training, the Hon Andrew Giles MP, Patron for WorldSkills Australia, former MP Brendan O’Connor, MPs, TAFE directors and other dignitaries.

In the lead up to the event, the squad will be

attending a four-day team-development camp to strengthen team bonds, train in high performance and resilience, and prepare for the honour and challenge ahead of them.

The chosen few

First held in 1950, the WorldSkills International Competition aims to raise the profile of vocational skills worldwide, engaging young people, parents, educators and employers in the value of trades and technical education.

The Australian Government proudly supports the WorldSkills program, which plays a vital role in encouraging young Australians to pursue skills-based careers.

With ongoing skills shortages across multiple sectors, events like the National Championships help to promote trades and training pathways as valuable, futurefocused career options.

The two up-and-comers selected in the Landscape Gardening category are: • Thomas Downing (Competitor), NSW • Dylan McIntyre (Competitor), NSW • Michael Blasch (Expert), ACT. To stay in touch with the progress of the three, and for all the WorldSkills Australia news, log on to worldskills.org.au www.landscapecontractor.com.au

55

Eye on the industry

Put to good re-use Recycled mulch might seem simple, but to consistently produce the highest-quality product in large volumes requires a meticulous process. ResourceCo in Victoria has that process down to a fine art.

T

oo the uninitiated, mulch is just leftover plant material.

To recycling specialists ResourceCo, it’s an important resource which needs to be manufactured to exacting standards in line with industry needs.

It’s also an opportunity to give a second life to material which would otherwise be headed for landfill.

56

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

Quality control

Garreth Dorey, Sales Manager at ResourceCo, is as passionate about the need to recycle and reuse as everyone Landscape Contractor has spoken to at ResourceCo, and he was happy to spend some time running through the systems that make the company’s recycled mulch such a premium and consistent product.

“ResourceCo takes in a range of different raw materials,” he told Landscape Contractor’s wide-eyed editor. “We accept timbers like oriented strand board (OSB), plywood, hardwoods, freight pallets – including the corner blocks – pine, packing timbers, and most offcuts.

“We don’t accept treated timber and we don’t accept painted timber.”

Systems

Garreth then went on to explain a visual inspection was done to ensure the supplied timber was suitable.

“We’re very specific about it because it’s to be turned into a recycled product that will be of the highest quality,” he affirmed.

Following a visual inspection, coarse materials are then fed into a secondary

product required. Sizes include 50mm preshred, 20mm mulch and mulch fines

Multiple uses

ResourceCo is geared to deal with industrial quantities, both incoming and outgoing.

Big infrastructure projects consume a lot of product, as Garreth explained.

“We often take on big commercial and civil orders to deliver large-scale landscaping projects,” he said as though it were a worksite lunch order. “We’ve had jobs where we’ve supplied for the sides of freeways, rail projects, and other infrastructure projects where we’ve supplied mulch over three- or four-month periods.”

While the big projects are obvious attention-grabbers, plenty of ResourceCo recycled mulch is despatched to farms and animal-husbandry outfits where it’s used as bedding and to line enclosure floors.

Goes around and comes around

As we discovered in the March/April issue, ResourceCo staff are strong believers in, and supporters of, recycling and reuse. It’s an ethos which has driven the company to become one of Australia’s leading resource-

It’s quite a good story, giving another life to what’s normally considered an endof-life product. recovery and re-manufacturing concerns, operating over 25 specialised recycling facilities across Australasia.

And although mulch may not be huge for the company measured in volume against its other products, the determination to see good material put to good use is as strong with recycled mulch as it is with everything the company does.

“It’s quite a good story,” smiled Garreth, clearly happy to be telling it, “Giving another life to what’s normally considered an end-oflife product.”

To ResourceCo, mulch is an important resource which needs to be manufactured to exacting standards in line with industry needs.

Giving a second life to material which would otherwise be headed for landfill. Images: ResourceCo process, which includes passing under two high-powered magnets to remove ferrous material and being lab tested and analysed by a state-of-the-art asbestos gun.

By utilising advanced systems and technologies that exceed normal standards, this helps to ensure every batch of recycled timber mulch ResourceCo produces is safe for redeployment and of the highest quality.

“We pride ourselves on our dependable recycled timber mulch service offering that can cater to large-volume requirements allyear-round,” Garreth pointed out. “We also have blowers which remove any lightweight foreign materials – generally plastics, paper, gyprock or things like that which shouldn’t be in there.”

Once it’s through the quality-assurance processes, it’s shredded into the size of www.landscapecontractor.com.au

57

Eye on the industry

STIHL Australia unleashes its biggest product launch ever In a bold move that redefines the future of outdoor power equipment, STIHL Australia has unveiled its largest and most powerful product launch to date.

S

TIHL’s historic rollout introduces a suite of cutting-edge tools designed to elevate performance, efficiency, and innovation for professionals and serious users alike. From battery-powered breakthroughs to petrol-injected powerhouses, this launch is a game-changer for landscapers, arborists, and hardscapers across the country.

SHA 140 – the world’s most powerful battery vacuum shredder Leading the charge is the SHA 140, a revolutionary battery-powered vacuum shredder that outperforms even the popular SH 86 C. Purpose-built for professional landscapers, the SHA 140 is a dedicated shredder with completely tool-less adjustability, making it easier than ever to switch between vacuum and shred modes.

Designed to handle wet leaves with ease, it’s the ultimate clean-up companion for any outdoor space. With unmatched suction power and shredding capability, the SHA 140 is the missing piece in every landscaper’s battery suite.

Precision meets power.

The missing piece in every landscaper's battery suite. Images: STIHL

HSA 140 R & HSA 140 T – precision meets power

Next up are STIHL’s most powerful battery hedge trimmers to date: the HSA 140 R and HSA 140 T. Both models share a robust design and ergonomic features, but each is tailored for a specific task: • The HSA 140 T is built for precision trimming, featuring smaller tooth spacing and a blazing-fast 5000rpm output speed ideal for shaping and fine detailing • The HSA 140 R is engineered for rejuvenation and reduction, with wider blade spacing and higher torque output to tackle thicker branches and dense hedges.

Together, they offer a complete solution for hedge maintenance, whether you’re sculpting or cutting back.

58

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

BGA 160 – a new standard in blower performance

The BGA 160 is the latest evolution in STIHL’s battery blower lineup, delivering 33% more power than the BGA 86. With cruise control, enhanced ergonomics, and an excellent balance of runtime and performance, the BGA 160 is ready to take on any task, from clearing leaves to heavy-duty debris management.

It’s the ideal tool for professionals who demand power without compromise.

For serious hardscaping.

Power without compromise.

Virtually unstoppable.

KMA 200 R and FSS-KM – the ultimate Kombi upgrade

STIHL’s legendary KombiSystem gets a serious upgrade with the KMA 200 R, the most powerful Kombi motor ever – even surpassing petrol models.

When paired with the new FSS-KM grass-trimming attachment, it becomes a 450mm swath grass trimmer that’s virtually unstoppable.

The KMA 200 R is compatible with all existing Kombi attachments, giving users the most powerful version of every tool in their arsenal.

GTA 40 – compact power for tight spaces

Tackling the toughest vegetation.

FSA 400 – the world’s most powerful battery brushcutter

For those tackling the toughest vegetation, the FSA 400 is a game-changer.

Equivalent in power to the petrol-driven FS 361 C-E, it’s the world’s most powerful battery brushcutter and clearing saw. Compatible with all existing petrol attachments, it offers a smooth transition to battery power without sacrificing performance. It’s the go-to tool for professionals ready to go fully electric.

TS 710i and TS 910i – petrol injection power for hardscaping

Adding to the launch are two petrol-injected cut-off saws built for serious hardscaping: the TS 710i (14"), STIHL’s most powerful 14" cutoff saw and the TS 910i (16"), the world’s most powerful 16" cut-off saw.

These cut-off saws feature innovative design, enhanced comfort, and the ability to power through concrete, steel, and stone with ease. When paired with STIHL’s range of cutoff wheels, they’re ready for any challenge.

Book your demo today

This is more than a product launch – it’s a new era for STIHL and for professionals across Australia.

Whether you’re upgrading your fleet or exploring battery-powered solutions for the first time, there’s never been a better time to experience STIHL innovation.

Scan the QR code to book a demo and see these groundbreaking tools in action at your nearest STIHL dealer.

The GTA 40 introduces STIHL’s first dual AS battery system, delivering extended runtime and enhanced performance in a compact form. With a 6" bar, ambidextrous controls, non-slip dual grips, and a dedicated oil reservoir, it’s ideal for arborists and landscapers working in tight or elevated spaces.

Whether pruning or cutting in confined areas, the GTA 40 is a must-have.

FSA 110 R – innovation meets efficiency

The FSA 110 R is STIHL’s latest innovation in ergonomic design and productivity.

Featuring the RapidClick system, users can reload the nylon head in under 30 seconds and switch between AutoCut C 12-2 and PolyCut 12-2 heads with the press of a button – no tools required.

It’s a seamless solution for professionals who need to stay efficient on the job.

The GTA 40 with STIHL's first dual battery system. www.landscapecontractor.com.au

59

Eye on the industry

Community spirit

Thanks to the generosity of a supplier, a lawn-care operator and some local people, a community garden in Victoria has been given the chance to blossom.

B

edford Park Community Garden in Ringwood, Victoria, is more than just a not-for-profit area where local people can grow plants and vegetables.

Garden co-ordinator Ellen Clarke loves the way the public can share the space she cares for and manages.

“It’s not an enclosed garden with plots to rent,” explained Ellen. “It’s an open garden where people can walk a dog, kick a ball with the kids, and where parents bring their cuppa over and sit in the gardens while they wait for their kids to have ballet lessons next door.

“It’s all supported by community members coming in to help us keep the garden going, and that’s where Stuart was absolutely amazing.”

60

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

Viking spirit

‘Stuart’ is Stuart Hill, owner/director of Viking Lawn Care & Irrigation.

Stuart knew that Reece had been involved in community projects. When he heard Ellen was looking for some help with planning and installing an irrigation system, Stuart thought it sounded like a deserving project.

“Ellen didn’t ask if there were any grants or if I could do it any cheaper,” remembered the Warrandyte-based lawn-care and irrigation specialist. “She just said they had a small kitty and she’d found they needed some irrigation done.”

Stuart put in a call to Shaun Gray, store manager at Reece Irrigation & Pools in Ringwood, and in no time at all a crew was

at work at Bedford Community Garden installing the very latest Rainbird and ENKi irrigation system, with help from some local volunteers.

“Stuart asked us, I spoke to my regional manager, and he said, ‘Yeah! For sure!’” the very affable Shaun told Landscape Contractor. “We found out what was involved and what Stuart needed, and along with a couple of our suppliers – one of them in particular was Rainbird, who was more than happy to jump on board and donate the controller and control valves – and we donated all the other components from our product range.

“That was how it came about, and we sort of rolled with it from there.”

Stuart from Viking was glad he became involved in this community project.

The job

The Bedford Park Community Garden, now irrigated, and hopefully a well-used community space for years to come. Images: Reece

Volunteers helped with the installation.

Shaun didn’t just hand over a load of product.

He showed up at the worksite and, already a popular fella, rose even higher in everyone’s estimation.

“He arrived with doughnuts for us,” smiled a clearly impressed Ellen.

Meanwhile, Stuart’s commitment to the job was considerable.

“First, I got some drone footage of the area and made a mud map of my ideas,” he said. “Then I gave Ellen a couple of options.

She liked the idea of being able to turn the irrigation on and off with her phone, and I gave her a good rundown on the Rainbird technology. She loved it.

“We went for the Rainbird-controller option, and then installed valves around the side of the community-garden shed. We ran lines to each veggie patch, and then dug in, under and up, so each garden has a sprayer.

“It’s a full smart, automated, irrigation system,” chimed in Shaun “We used our special, pressure-compensated ENKi driplines and fittings, and the Rainbird ME3 modular controller. It’s a smart controller which can be linked to wi-fi, and can be regulated to align the watering with weather events. Normally there’d be rain sensors up on a roof, however the benefit of the ME3 is that it is has internet-based weather information which can be used to make daily adjustments to the irrigation schedule, saving up to 30% in water.

“Being a modular controller, this allows for additional stations to be added in the future as required.

“It takes all the brainwork out of it, and

once its installed correctly it’s pretty much set and forget.

“Its easily switched off in winter, either on site or through the phone, or you can make seasonal adjustments to the program.”

Good result

Both Stuart and Shaun were glad to chip in to see the Bedford Community Garden continue as a place of sanctuary for the people of the Ringwood area, and as Shaun pointed out, it’s something not seen often enough in metropolitan areas.

“In country towns you see a lot of community participation with everyone coming together,” he recounted. “In the cities you don’t see it so often, and it felt nice to be involved with something like that, where everyone’s just getting on board, and everyone’s more than happy to help.

“When we there installing the product, you should’ve seen the families and kids that came and used the area. It was a genuine good feeling.

“I was glad I got involved.”

“It was a really, really smooth operation,” was Stuart’s thought, “and I was able to get some help from volunteers.”

“We are so grateful!” smiled Ellen. “And this is what we really appreciate – local businesses and members within the community supporting the garden. And we try and pay it back by supporting them.”

To learn more of Viking Lawn Care and Irrigation go to vikinglawncareandirrigation. com.au and to see products from Reece visit reece.com.au/irrigation www.landscapecontractor.com.au

61

Business and finance

Is Portable Equipment cover in your insurance toolbox?

Landscaping contractors rely on their tools and equipment to get the job done. You know that being without your toolbox could bring work to a standstill, but are you protecting your essential tools of the trade?

P

roper care and maintenance can keep your tools and equipment in good nick, but sometimes damage happens outside of normal wear and tear. Take this real-life example…

A gardener was cutting down a decayed tree that had fallen. While he was cutting through a deteriorated limb, it separated from the tree sooner than expected and crushed his chainsaw.

Replacing equipment like a chainsaw after an accident is an expense you might not be prepared for. But what choice does a landscaper have? Work has got to get done, and you need the proper tools to do it safely and efficiently.

Luckily for this gardener, he had added Portable Equipment cover to his Business Insurance Pack. This option covers loss and damage to items of portable equipment associated with your business, including tools of trade and items of stock.

62

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

The gardener made a claim, and his insurer reviewed it. Because damage to the chainsaw was caused by the substantial decay and deterioration of the tree, the insurer agreed to pay $1,049.09 to replace it.

Without Portable Equipment cover, the gardener would have been completely out of pocket for a new chainsaw. That could have been a big bill for a sole trader to cover on short notice.

Fast response

Portable Equipment covers accidents like the one above. It can also help repair or replace equipment if fire, water, collision, theft from a locked vehicle, and other covered events leave you without your tools.

Ready to protect your business with Portable Equipment, Public Liability, Personal Accident & Illness and other cover made for landscape contractors? Over 58,000 tradies already trust BizCover for their business insurance needs.

Compare policies online or over the phone and get covered in minutes. Policy documents are sent straight to your inbox, making it easy to show proof of insurance and get down to work.

For on the go cover, go BizCover.com.au or call 1300 805 821.

The provision of the claims examples are for illustrative purposes only and should not be seen as an indication as to how any potential claim will be assessed or accepted. BizCover is not authorised to provide claims handling and settling services. This means BizCover cannot assist with, manage, or settle any claims on your behalf or on behalf of your insurer. Coverage for claims on the policy is determined by the insurer, and not BizCover.

This information is general only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. It should not be relied upon as advice. As with any insurance, cover will be subject to the terms, conditions and exclusions contained in the policy wording or Product Disclosure Statement (available on the BizCover website). Please consider whether the advice is suitable for you before proceeding with any purchase. Target Market Determination document is also available (as applicable). © 2025 BizCover Pty Limited, all rights reserved. ABN 68 127 707 975; AFSL 501769

Replacing equipment like a chainsaw after an accident is an expense you might not be prepared for.

Image: O.Farion/stock.adobe.com

Proper care and maintenance can keep your tools and equipment in good nick, but sometimes damage happens outside of normal wear and tear

TRUSTED BY OVER 270,000 Australian small businesses

COMPARE QUOTES AND SAVE

Earn Qantas Points for every dollar spent on a new small business insurance policy*

bizcover.com.au

1300 805 821

*Must be a Qantas Business Rewards member. Maximum of 10,000 Qantas Points earned per policy. Available to new BizCover policy purchase only and not available with any other offer. See Terms & Conditions at bizcover.com.au/qbr. The information provided is general only and should not be relied upon as advice. BizCover Pty Ltd (ABN 68 127 707 975; AFSL 501769) © 2025 BizCover. BC3441

www.landscapecontractor.com.au

63

Business & finance

Setting targets Anna Turner likes a targeted approach.

T

he only sure way to grow your business and ensure more profit is to set targets.

Targets help focus on the things that will make a difference in driving up profit. They will stop you from guessing and steer you in the right direction.

In this article I want to focus on some of the most important targets and how to set them up.

The targets must start well before the job starts. Set targets that will win you the right work at the right margin.

Sales targets

You have to be in it to win it. But how much do you have to be in to win? Set monthly sales targets based on the amount of work you need to win to keep your pipeline strong.

To do this you need to work backwards.

First, start tracking where your sales are coming from. Look for win rates by suburb, type of work, size of the job, client demographic, and client source. Stack the odds in your favour by prioritising the quotes you are more likely to win.

Track your sales conversion rate. Track what percentage of the jobs you quote, by number of quotes and overall contract value, versus the percentage you win. This will give you the volume of quoting you need to do each week to ensure you always have a strong pipeline.

It might take a year or two of data collection to know your conversion rate and

where your sales typically come from, but it’s well worth keeping track of this data because it is the only sure-fire way to help you increase sales.

Profit targets

Who wants to take on all that risk for no reward? There’s no point pricing work that won’t make a profit, so you have to make sure the jobs you do price have the right profit margins built in.

You need to know your gross-profit and net-profit targets. The gross-profit margin is the profit before you have paid for overheads.

The net profit is the money you have actually earned after all expenses have been taken out. To calculate net profit, deduct the company expenses (overheads) from the revenue.

You first need to calculate your overheads to set these margins. As an example, if you set yourself a gross-profit margin of 25% and net-profit margin is 10%, you are saying your overheads cost 15% of your revenue. To set a gross-profit margin of 25% you need to mark up your cost by 33.33%.

Now your profit margins are set, you are ready to quote jobs with those margins built in. Always calculate the gross-profit margin of each quote before you send it out. Do not send out a quote with a gross-profit margin lower than the one you set.

Gross-profit margin formula = gross profit (revenue - cost of Sale) ÷ revenue x 100.

Cashflow targets

In a tight market you can easily price yourself out of a job accounting for every bit of potential time wasting

64

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

Cashflow is the single biggest killer of small businesses, so it’s vital you watch it like a hawk. A strong cashflow gives your business stability and vastly reduces stress levels.

Regular invoicing is key to a healthy cashflow. You need to ensure that each month you are sending out invoices to a greater value than the invoices you receive.

Understand your monthly fixed expenses and plan for them. Forecast/track when the large expenses (eg: a stone order) are due.

Work hard to invoice enough work to cover those outgoings. For example, putting more manpower on a project to get it completed to make an invoice deadline is a good way to help with cashflow.

Focus on reducing the time it takes to convert work into paid invoices. Invoice early and often. Try to negotiate short invoice-

payment times – 14 days is good. Watch for builders who might try to give you 90-day payments. Set yourself targets for invoices being paid on time and chase those targets.

Build yourself a buffer so when you do get a shitty client, you can weather the storm.

The good news is that all the accounting software on the market today will automatically track your cashflow. Make sure you invoice and enter bills daily for the most accurate picture.

Team performance targets

It’s important to track how your workforce is performing.

On an individual basis you should set KPIs for each staff member. Align it with their career path and they will happily work to improve performance.

On a team and company level you need to track how well teams are performing against the expected outcomes set when quoting. Ideally the work should be done in approximately the amount of time that was calculated/allocated when quoting. If the two don’t line up, then the estimator is out with their pricing or the team is underperforming.

Many factors, like weather and material delays, need to be taken into consideration (ideally these would be taken into consideration when pricing. However, in a tight market you can easily price yourself out of a job accounting for every bit of potential time wasting).

There is a vast difference between an efficient team and a disorganised one. They will both lay paving at the same rate; however, the efficient team will get the job done quicker because they are more organised and therefore will experience less delays. Tracking this efficiency is essential. You may have a team that’s not suited to one type of project but thrives on another. Tracking the outcomes of each project is the only way to actually see how the teams are performing.

Time well spent

It takes time and effort to track the data you need to set up and track targets, but it’s the only way you can gather the insights you need to make decisions around increasing profit in your business. Without them you are just guessing.

Start tracking today and implement the targets as soon as possible.

On a team and company level it’s important to track how well teams are performing against the expected outcomes set when quoting.

Image: The Little Hut/stock.adobe.com www.landscapecontractor.com.au

65

Association news

The work included installing retaining walls, timber steps, steel garden edging, stepping stones and boundary fencing.

A new high This TLA member has transformed a challenging, sloping site with retaining issues into a cohesive outdoor space.

S

pectacular views often come with challenging site issues for gardening contractors, which was certainly the case with this residential garden.

However, in a considered approach, Two Palms Landscaping managed the tough, steep, slope of this award-winning back garden on Sydney’s northern beaches using innovative retaining solutions, creating playful, engaging spaces, and transforming it into a cohesive, functional, and aesthetically pleasing landscape.

The work won the Gold and Best in

66

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

Category award in Residential Construction ($100,000 to $250,000) for Two Palms Landscaping at the 2024 Landscape Excellence Awards, with the judges particularly commending the execution of the timber and walls, calling it ‘…an excellentlooking garden’.

The brief

This rear garden was a return client for Two Palms Landscaping, who constructed the front garden in 2022. The brief for the back garden was to create a space that seamlessly

integrated with the existing landscape while adding an element of fun and playfulness.

The focus was on handling the site’s steep topography through innovative structural design to ensure functionality and aesthetics.

The back garden presented significant challenges, primarily due to its tough, steep slope which had suffered damage from previous construction methods and heavy rain. This made it largely unusable in its initial state, but it also provided a unique opportunity to transform the terrain into dynamic terraces.

A few existing plants in decent condition were kept and incorporated into the new design. Originally, the space featured a lawn with unmaintained hedges, most of which needed replacement.

Scope of work

The scope of work included installing retaining walls, timber steps, steel garden edging, stepping stones and boundary fencing, overcoming site challenges through thoughtful design and strategic planning.

Earthworks included movement of soil to alter ground levels and relocate existing soil. A concrete patio slab was created in conjunction with the lower wall footings. The retaining walls were constructed using Dincel walling, M12 steel and core fill. This was rendered and sponge finished for painting.

Other works included the construction of three sets of timber garden steps, providing access from the patio to the pool, decking in spotted gum, a bench seat, turf and new garden beds edged in Corten steel.

In addition, given the site’s history of flooding during heavy rains, addressing drainage was a top priority. This included installing comprehensive drainage solutions to mitigate future water issues.

Access issues

Given the steep topography and existing structures, access to the site was limited.

Fortunately, the neighbouring property allowed access via their shared driveway.

This was strategically managed through effective communication and agreed time slots for deliveries, minimising disruption and maintaining good relations with the neighbours.

The focus was on handling the site’s steep topography through innovative structural design to ensure functionality and aesthetics. Images: TLA

Originally, the space featured a lawn with unmaintained hedges Plantings

A wide variety of hardy plants were chosen, designed to withstand the challenges of the exposed site. Species included feature plantings of Dragon tree (Dracaena Draco), Sansevieria, and Senecio Serpens, underplanted with Dichondra ‘Silver falls’ and Native Violet (Viola Hederacea). A series of Bromeliads was planted along the boundary between the new lawn and the pool.

The new lawn was planted with hardy Sir Walter Buffalo turf.

The result

Now, with a well-considered series of stepped garden areas, each offering separate spaces to meet and entertain, the rear garden has become a focus of the family’s leisure time, extending the entertaining areas of the house and providing a framework for the views.

Joining The Landscape Association

Membership of TLA is open to eligible residential and commercial landscape businesses involved in construction, maintenance, and design, as well as trade and service providers to the industry. The benefits for joining include supplier discounts via the TLA Member Rewards Program, as well as business promotion, resources, services and advice, events, training and networking, industry information, advocacy and representation. To find out more, visit landscapeassociation.com.au

About the awards

This award-winning garden was highlighted at TLA’s 2024 Landscape Excellence Awards, celebrating the very highest standards and achievements in landscape construction, design and maintenance, in both the residential and commercial sectors. www.landscapecontractor.com.au

67

Association news

C

a K B

W

Master Landscapers of South Australia CEO, Chris Wiltshire. Image: MLSA

A big step for MLSA

Master Landscapers of South Australia CEO, Chris Wiltshire, is rapt with his latest news.

I

n a major milestone, The Master Landscapers of South Australia (MLSA) is proud to announce the association has been formally endorsed by the South Australian Skills Commission as the assessing authority for Trade Recognition Certificates (officially known as Occupational Certificates) for the landscaping industry.

This is a show of confidence from the State Government in SA’s peak association body that MLSA is a leading organisation which provides outstanding expertise.

Even playing field

As many South Australians are aware, landscaping officially became a trade in late 2024. As a result, landscaping became an 68

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

apprentice-based profession, with trade certificates issued to those who complete their qualification.

Now, all people within the industry have the opportunity to be formally recognised as landscapers under a trade-recognition certificate. This creates an even playing field for people with years of experience who don’t have formal qualifications.

What is a recognition certificate?

A Trade Recognition Certificate is a formal document issued by the Skills Commission that confirms a person’s skills, experience, and competency in a trade, even if they haven’t completed a formal apprenticeship or qualification in Australia. These certificates can play an important role for experienced workers seeking employment, licences, or proof they are competent as trade professionals in the landscaping industry. It’s particularly critical for employers wishing to engage apprentices.

With MLSA now appointed as an assessing authority, experienced landscapers and related tradespeople will be able to have their skills evaluated by the peak body that represents and understands their profession best. As SA industry’s professional voice, MLSA is uniquely positioned to assess applicants with accuracy, fairness, and a deep understanding of landscaping practices, standards, and regulations.

Why should I get a traderecognition certificate?

• Landscapers cannot employ apprentices unless they have a trade certificate or an equivalent qualification. A recognition certificate is identified by the skills commission as an equivalent qualification and gives landscapers the appropriate paperwork to engage and supervise apprentices • Landscapers with a certificate will have equivalent professional status to those with trade certificates, giving them an equal footing when advertising their credentials and business, and • It’s a formal recognition of a person’s knowledge in the landscaping profession that can be used as proof of experience when applying for licences, insurance and bank loans.

How do I get my recognition certificate?

The Skills Commission has endorsed MLSA’s Trade Endorsed Professional program (TEP) as the assessment pathway for a recognition certificate. Once you obtain a TEP from MLSA, you become eligible to obtain a recognition certificate.

To find out more details about MLSA’s TEP, head to landscapesa.com.au/TradeEndorsed-Professional/

Subscribe to CONTRACTOR and enter the draw to win a Kress Commercial KC510.9 Handheld Blower, CyberPack Nano Compact Battery and CyberPlug Charger valued at $2227 inc. GST

Prize drawn July 01, 2026. All current and new subscribers will enter the draw. Staff, friends and relatives of Prime Creative Media personnel are not eligible to win. Prize value is based on Kress Australia’s recommended retail price as of July 2025. Prize is non-negotiable. For T&Cs go to landscapecontractor.com.au

Winner will receive: * 1x Kress Commercial KC510.9 Handheld Blower, * 1x KAC800 CyberPack Nano Compact Battery, and * 1x KAC840 CyberPlug Charger.

WINNER! CHOOSE FROM ONE YEAR $44

• 12-MONTH SUBSCRIPTION • 6 ISSUES • FREE DELIVERY

Justin Georgopoulos (left) was the big winner of the Husqvarna 522iHD75 hedge trimmer, battery and charger, and was rapt when Alex Belanszky of Tahmoor Mower & Chainsaw Centre handed over the goodies.

Justo sent us a text saying: ‘The blower is very powerful it’s great for commercial use!

Always been a petrol man but I think I’ve converted. Very happy!’

The next winner could be you.

TWO YEARS $77 • 24-MONTH SUBSCRIPTION • 12 ISSUES • FREE DELIVERY

eMAG $5.99 FROM

• DIGITAL VERSION

To subscribe

Scan this code:

call (03) 9690 8766; or visit: landscapecontractor.com.au

Association news

With Landscaping Victoria, you’ll find meaningful connections, professional growth opportunities, and the chance to win more of the work you want. Images: Landscaping Victoria

Level up your business and career with Landscaping Victoria membership

C

In landscaping, standing still isn’t an option. Our industry moves quickly, and keeping pace means staying connected, informed, and supported.

That’s where Landscaping Victoria membership makes all the difference.

M

a Professional directory connect members directly with consumers searching for trusted landscapers, while the association’s exclusive Jobs List makes sure you’re first in line when opportunities arise.

And then there’s the LV member badge, a recognised symbol of quality, integrity, and professionalism. When clients see it, they know they’re in safe hands.

New for 2025–26: free mentoring program

Resources, advocacy, and savings

Build trust. Win more work

Landscaping Victoria members gain support and a competitive edge. Tools like the Find 70

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR

Y

CM

MY

embership is more than belonging to an industry body. It’s about having the right tools, networks, and resources to help you thrive, whether you’re running a busy crew, leading a design studio, or just setting out on your career journey. With Landscaping Victoria, you’ll find meaningful connections, professional growth opportunities, and the chance to win more of the work you want.

One of the most exciting additions for 2025 is the brand-new Landscaping Victoria Mentoring Program, delivered in partnership with Mentorloop.

For the first time, all members will have free access to structured mentoring, connecting experienced and emerging practitioners across every corner of the industry, from contractors and designers to horticulturists, suppliers, and maintenance professionals.

Whether you’re seeking guidance to grow your business or eager to give back by mentoring the next generation, this program offers genuine professional development, practical support, and fresh insights.

M

From legally reviewed contracts to exclusive industry discounts and up-to-the-minute updates on regulations and market trends, Membership means joining a community that looks out for each other.

Landscaping Victoria membership delivers practical resources designed to keep your business strong.

Landscaping Victoria is also your voice in the rooms where it matters most, actively representing members with government and regulatory bodies, including the new Building & Plumbing Commission and the Victorian Skills Authority, making sure the landscaping profession has a strong seat at the table.

A community that’s got your back Perhaps most importantly, membership means joining a community that looks out for each other. Through networking events, professional development workshops, and the popular Industry Nights Masterclass series, members share knowledge, support, and ideas to help small to medium businesses thrive.

Because when Landscaping Victoria members succeed, our industry flourishes.

Your industry. Your community.

Your advantage If you’re ready to take your business and career to the next level, now’s the time to join Landscaping Victoria.

Find out more at landscapingvictoria.com.au

CY

CMY

K

W P V ju f

“ la

“ c p w h id m

LCM Full Page SepOct25.pdf

1

19/8/2025

9:10 am

“Joining LV has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for my business.”

WHY I’M AN LV MEMBER •

A stronger professional network

•

Opportunities to contribute at industry level

•

Benchmarking and business growth

•

Events that inspire and connect

•

A real sense of community

C

M

Y

Image: Mathew Wandmaker, courtesy of Landscape Contractor Magazine

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

“The support, networking, and access to resources are incredibly valuable, but more than that, you become part of a community that genuinely wants to see each other succeed.”

When Mathew Wandmaker of Blue Ridge Property Maintenance joined Landscaping Victoria shortly after the pandemic, he wasn’t just looking for resources, he was searching for connection.

“Before joining, I felt isolated from the wider landscaping community,” he explains.

“Being part of the network gave me the chance to connect with like-minded professionals I may never have crossed paths with otherwise. These relationships have helped me benchmark my business, share ideas, and grow in ways I couldn’t have managed alone.”

For Mathew, the most rewarding part has been the opportunity to represent the maintenance sector at board level.

“Having a voice, shaping direction, and supporting others in the maintenance community has been incredibly fulfilling, and the friendships I’ve made along the way are just as valuable.”

Ready to feel more connected, supported, and inspired?

Join Landscaping Victoria today and discover the power of community.

www.landscapingvictoria.com.au

Cutting-edge performance meets sustainability.

The Kress CyberSystem is the fastest-charging, longest-lasting battery solution available.

Guaranteed for 3,000 cycles, Kress CyberPack batteries are the only batteries to outsave fossil fuels. Charging in as little as 8 minutes, they allow you to power through the work day with minimal downtime.

The future is now.

Speak to your local authorised Kress dealer today, or learn more at kress.com

3000