GMA supports new degree-level sports turf apprenticeship
The GMA has welcomed the creation of a new Level 5 Sports Turf Technical Manager apprenticeship, developed by the industry-led Sports Turf Apprenticeship Trailblazer Group.
The new apprenticeship, which includes an integrated Foundation Degree (FdSc), has now been published, subject to final funding band approval. Delivery is proposed for late 2025 or early 2026.
Designed to meet the technical demands of modern turf management, the apprenticeship offers a clear and funded progression route into higher-
level learning. The inclusion of the Foundation Degree in Sports Turf means apprentices can achieve a high-quality, industryrelevant qualification as part of their training.
As the professional body for grounds management, we have submitted a letter of professional recognition to the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IFATE) to support the mandate of the qualification.
The apprenticeship also aligns directly with the Grounds Management Framework, which brings together a range of training and education opportunities provided by both
the GMA and other providers, including apprenticeship providers, to ensure a clear and coherent career pathway for those working, or wishing to work, in sports turf maintenance and management.
Levy-paying employers can draw down funds up to the approved maximum, while non-levy payers contribute just 5% towards training costs. The accessible funding model helps remove barriers for both apprentices and employers, encouraging wider participation and supporting the continued professionalisation of the industry.
Jason Booth, Chief Operating Officer at the GMA, said:
“This new Level 5 apprenticeship is a significant step forward for the sports turf sector. It creates a vital link between hands-on experience and degree-level learning.
“Currently, just under 17% of the professional workforce has come through apprenticeships so by offering a technical qualification that aligns with industry needs, we hope to widen access and attract more people to a rewarding and skilled profession.”
The British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) and co-founders and sponsors Toro and Reesink UK have revealed the line-up for the 2025 Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards.
Now in its 36th year, the awards have helped unearth some of the brightest talents within the turf management industry and laid the foundations for decades of professional success.
Held at Rudding Park in Harrogate on 9-11 September, the finalists will compete in a series of challenges that are designed to test their technical knowledge and passion for the greenkeeping profession. Winners will then be crowned in the categories of Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year and Toro Young Student Greenkeeper of the Year. The Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year finalists are: Jamie Beattie, assistant greenkeeper at Royal Liverpool and student at Myerscough College; Ruth Etches, assistant greenkeeper at Trentham Golf Club and student at Myerscough College; Oliver Pate, deputy head greenkeeper at Worksop Golf Club and student
The Sports Turf Apprenticeship Trailblazer Group is a voluntary collaboration involving Whitgift School, Leicester City Football Club, STRI Group, Myerscough College, LANTRA, International Greenkeepers for Hire, Ashton Gate Stadium, Grounds Management Association, The RFU, Bridgewater and Taunton College, Warwickshire CCC, Warwick Schools, Wiltshire College, Perfect Pitches, York Racecourse.
The GMA Enquiry 35
at Askham Bryan College; Chris Szoradi, first assistant greenkeeper at Manchester Golf Club and student at Askham Bryan College; and Brad Taylor, assistant greenkeeper at Beau Desert Golf Club and student at Myerscough College.
The Toro Young Student Greenkeeper of the Year finalists are: Oliver Badger, apprentice greenkeeper at Parkstone Golf Club and student at Myerscough College; Andrew Semple, apprentice greenkeeper at Machrihanish Dunes Golf Club and student at SRUC Elmwood; and Matthew Strutt Donnelly, apprentice greenkeeper at Stoneham Golf Club and student at Berkshire College of Agriculture (Windsor Forest Campus).
More information about the finalists can be found on the BIGGA website, where you can also find information about the incredible prizes on offer for the awards winners and their endorsers and the runners-up in each category, including a 10-week placement on one of the industry’s most influential training courses.
BIGGA Enquiry 36
An electrifying demonstration of precision greenkeeping
Turney Groundcare, Bicester, hosted a Jacobsen Electrification Show & Mow event at Kirtlington Golf Course, Oxfordshire, for customers to learn more about Jacobsen’s new electric product range and drive it for themselves.
Turney Group’s expanded sales territory extends to the South and West of their existing area of responsibility, encompassing many more golf courses, and further strengthens the longestablished partnership between Turney Group and Ransomes Jacobsen.
The day started with an opportunity for the delegates and Turney sales team to catch up over a bacon sandwich, compare experiences of the current woefully low-rainfall conditions, and consider what they would like to gain from the day. Much of the initial feedback made clear that customers are considering the benefits of battery machines and
may not have had the chance to see them for themselves yet.
Jacobsen’s product trainer Rob Hayward led a presentation on the history and varied portfolio of the Textron business, Jacobsen’s parent company, followed by greater detail on individual machines. The lineup of demonstration machines included the Eclipse 360 ELiTE, SLF1 ELiTE, Ransomes Aurora ELiTE, and the Cushman Hauler Pro X ELiTE. Steve Lloyd, Course Manager at The Worcestershire Golf Club, remarked that it was helpful to have somebody at the event who could offer in-depth knowledge of the machines and the research that goes into the development process to build trust in the Jacobsen brand.
These machines are powered by Samsung SDI technology, proven with over 15 million hours of field experience, and come with a 5-year battery pack warranty
for peace of mind. The benefits of lithium compared to lead-acid batteries were discussed; they require no battery maintenance, and their consistent flow of power makes them entirely dependable. Minimal running costs, compared with traditional machines, are a key factor for course managers to reassure stakeholders regarding their club's investment, and a crucial benefit when choosing new machinery. The Eclipse 360 ELiTE has the battery range for 50+ greens, delivering a consistent cut every time for any operator.
Precision of cut is highly featured on the list of important factors when buying a new machine, and the Jacobsen electric range certainly stands up to the challenge. Reduced noise and vibration were also stand-out points that impressed on the day. Confidence in the machine is so strong that the Eclipse 360 ELiTE is backed by 5-year
John Deere Gator XUV 875M is built for professionals
The order book has opened for John Deere’s new dieselpowered Gator XUV 875M.
Delivering more space, strength, and smart features, it offers practical solutions for transporting tools, materials, and crews across challenging terrain.
With a cargo box capacity of 454kg and 13% more space than its predecessor, the XUV 875M is ideal for professionals needing to carry bulky loads or
organise a mobile toolkit. The redesigned load bed includes a fl at tailgate that doubles as a workbench, with built-in measurement guides and clamping points, plus multiple tie-down options and a 12V power port for added flexibility.
Comfort and durability have also been upgraded. The vehicle features improved suspension, a more efficient air intake system to protect the engine and CVT from dust and debris, and seating
for three – perfect for team transport on or off-road.
With added width, integrated storage solutions, and practical enhancements, the Gator XUV 875M brings real benefits. It features a 22.8 hp engine with a fuel tank volume of 42.4 litres.
For more information about the new XUV 875M, contact your local John Deere dealer.
John Deere Enquiry 39
machine coverage and a 3-year limited service agreement, in addition to the standard 2-year warranty. The SLF1 also benefits from 5-year battery warranty and 2-year machine warranty, with all service work able to be carried out
by Turney Groundcare's service department, either at our new depot in Bredon, Gloucestershire, at Weston on the Green, Oxfordshire, or at your premises.
To book a personal demonstration at your golf course or any other
Sand is one of the UK’s
The Kress KR237E – a game changer for golf and sports turf maintenance
With the launch of the Kress KR237E, robotic mowing technology has taken a bold step forward, bringing a professional-grade solution to the world of golf courses and large sports turf fields.
This next-generation mower is designed not just to automate turf maintenance but to elevate its quality, efficiency, and consistency.
The KR237E boasts a top mowing speed of 1.0 m/s— significantly faster than typical
robotic mowers—allowing it to cover expansive grounds quickly without compromising precision.
Its enhanced 110W cutting motor, a 60% increase in power, enables it to slice cleanly through dense, heavy turf, maintaining immaculate playing conditions even in the most demanding areas.
Where this machine truly shines is in its adaptability.
With a cutting height range of 10 to 60mm, the KR237E is versatile enough to manage both manicured fairways and tougher roughs with ease.
Its improved cutting height adjustment system eliminates jamming issues, ensuring uninterrupted operation and consistent results throughout its run.
What sets the KR237E apart is its all-in-one capability— one machine is powerful and versatile enough to mow an entire golf hole, from fairway to rough, without the need for a separate fairway kit. This reduces the need for multiple machines and streamlines turf maintenance logistics.
The KR237E isn’t just a new mower—it’s a smart investment in efficiency and turf health. For golf course superintendents and sports turf managers, it offers a reliable, high-performance solution that meets the evolving demands of modern groundskeeping.
With Kress’s latest innovation, the future of large-scale robotic mowing is not just the future, it’s here.
Kress Enquiry 43
Quiet power for a greener game
Nestled in the Derbyshire countryside, Morley Hayes is not only known for its beautifully maintained courses, hotel, and hospitality offering, but also for its leadership in sustainability.
In recent years, the club has taken significant steps to reduce its environmental footprint. These efforts were formalised in their Sustainability Report, which laid out clear goals for improving biodiversity, cutting carbon emissions, and reducing noise pollution across the estate.
A central part of this sustainability journey has been the transition to batterypowered machinery for grounds maintenance. EGO Power+ has played a key role in helping Morley Hayes achieve its targets by providing highperformance cordless tools that deliver the same level of power as petrol, but without
the associated environmental impact.
Since implementing EGO products across their groundskeeping team, the club has been able to reduce fuel dependency, improve working conditions for staff, and offer guests a more peaceful experience, all without compromising on the quality of course maintenance.
The decision was based on product performance, battery longevity, build quality, and the backing of EGO’s industryleading 56V ARC Lithium battery platform.
"The performance is just as good as petrol – but without the noise or smell,” said Mark Worrall, Head Greenkeeper. “For us, it’s the future."
EGO Power Plus Enquiry 44
Mansfield Sand transforms sports pitches
Andy Richards, Grounds Manager at Haileybury School, credits Mansfield Sand’s MM40 with significantly improving drainage and enhancing the overall quality of the school’s sports pitches.
With its exceptional consistency and performance, MM40 has
become an essential part of his grounds management strategy, ensuring the pitches are always match-ready.
Located in Hertfordshire, Haileybury is one of the UK’s leading independent coeducational boarding and day
schools. Its sprawling 500-acre estate includes 180 acres of meticulously maintained sports pitches, supporting the school’s reputation for excellence in rugby, football, cricket, lacrosse, and hockey. Andy Richards, in his sixth year as Grounds Manager, leads a team of 11 staff tasked with maintaining this diverse landscape.
“It’s a large site with a mix of grounds and gardens, so the team does a bit of everything,” Andy explained. “Haileybury is a school that prides itself on developing well-rounded pupils through both academic and cocurricular activities, and sport is a massive part of that. Maintaining pitches to meet the high standards of national-level teams is a challenge, but one I enjoy.”
Haileybury sits on heavy London clay, which presents drainage issues, particularly during the wet months. Andy turned to Mansfield Sand’s MM40 for its superior
drainage properties and reliability, using it for top-dressing, pitch renovation, and amelioration.
“This year alone, we’ve used 400 tonnes of MM40 on a newly built pitch, 300 tonnes on two other pitches worked into the surface, and 58 tonnes as an October top-dressing on our first-team rugby pitch,” Andy shared. “On heavy clay, anything we can do to improve drainage is a massive benefit. Sand is expensive, so it has to be good quality to justify the investment, and Mansfield Sand always delivers.”
Mansfield Sand’s commitment to quality and service has stood out to Andy. “We’ve had such a large quantity of sand delivered, and I don’t think we’ve ever found a single stone or had an issue with any of it,” he said. “In the past, I’ve had loads of sand from other suppliers that I had to send back, but Mansfield Sand has been flawless. Their customer
service is excellent—the drivers call an hour before delivery and again when they’re on-site. It’s seamless every time.”
The MM40 sand’s medium-fine texture and superior drainage make it the ideal choice for Haileybury’s pitches, ensuring a stable and safe playing surface for students and athletes alike.
With a history dating back to 1840, Mansfield Sand is a trusted name in sand-based solutions.
The company’s state-of-the-art technology and rigorous quality standards have earned it a reputation for excellence across the sports industry. MM40, in particular, is a preferred choice for high-profile sports facilities and stadiums, thanks to its consistency, purity, and performance.
“Mansfield Sand has been crucial in helping us maintain the pitches at Haileybury,” Andy added. “The
quality of their product means we can rely on it to keep our pitches performing at their best, no matter the sport or season.”
For Andy, the partnership with Mansfield Sand is an essential part of his strategy for maintaining Haileybury’s grounds to the highest standard.
“The MM40 has been fantastic for both drainage and pitch health,” he said. “It’s reliable, consistent, and it works. When you’re managing a site as large as this, having a dependable product and supplier makes all the difference.”
As Haileybury continues to uphold its reputation for sporting excellence, Mansfield Sand’s MM40 is playing a vital role in ensuring the pitches meet the demands of both athletes and the environment.
Mansfield Sand Enquiry 45
Delivering performance under pressure
At a venue that’s hosted the Ryder Cup, 19 European Tour events, and countless visitors from around the world, expectations for course quality are sky high.
For Jim McKenzie, Director of Golf Courses and Estates Management at the Celtic Manor Collection, finding products that can consistently deliver performance without disruption is essential.
With three championship golf courses under his remitincluding the world-renowned Twenty-Ten Course - Jim leads an expert team managing one of the UK’s most demanding golfing venues. And when it comes to turf management, he says two of Agrovista Amenity’s products - Attraxor and Maxtima - have become standout performers.
“We’ve dabbled over the years with various cultural and chemical approaches, particularly to deal with Poa seedhead suppression,” explains Jim.
“Ray Hunt from Agrovista Amenity suggested we take a look at Attraxor plant growth regulator, and we liked what we saw in the marketplace. We trialled it on Roman Road in 2023, and the results spoke for themselves.
“We were impressed enough that we decided to use it across the whole site, all three courses.”
The trial proved effective. Jim noted not only a reduction in clip rate, but also smaller and less disruptive seed heads, leading to smoother ball roll and improved green
presentation—even at slightly higher heights of cut.
“The Poa was still there and seeding, but it was far less invasive. That helped maintain surface quality without the need for disruptive maintenance—crucial for a venue like ours where there are no closure days.”
For Jim and the team, Poa is not just accepted—it’s the grass of choice, and managing its behaviour is key to course quality.
“We used to lie awake at night worrying about keeping Poa out. Now, it’s about how we manage it—and products like Attraxor make that job a lot more effective.”
Alongside Attraxor, Maxtima has also been introduced
AMAZONE BladeCut for professional green space management
AMAZONE is expanding its professional lawn maintenance range with the BladeCut 1800 rotary mower.
The new mowing deck can be easily retrofitted to the Profihopper 1500 self-propelled mower/collector as an option. High outputs can be achieved thanks to its robust design and a cutting width of 1.80 m.
Numerous technical advantages make the BladeCut mowing deck a good choice when it comes to precision and for intensive continuous operation.
The standard flail mower unit on the Profihopper can be quickly and easily replaced by the new rotary mower via the QuickLink coupling system. Operators can therefore react flexibly to different requirements.
into the programme, further strengthening the site’s ability to tackle turf health issues with confidence.
Maxtima is a next-generation DMI fungicide powered by Mefentrifluconazole, and Jim is a fan.
“Maxtima’s been a valuable addition too. It's part of that progression in product development where we can use targeted solutions that fit our unique environment.”
Its flexible application window, rainfastness, and strong resistance profile have made Maxtima a valuable addition to Jim’s toolkit— especially in a high-pressure, high-visibility environment like Celtic Manor.
Agrovista Amenity Enquiry 46
The modern mowing deck geometry of the BladeCut 1800 provides a high blade overlap. This ensures both a clean grass cut, even when cornering, and an even, full-width distribution of the cuttings.
The BladeCut has direct rear discharge meaning that the collection function of the Profihopper is deactivated.
A mulching kit with specially shaped mulching blades is available as an option.
A permeable grass guide effectively prevents blockages. The mowing deck operates quietly and is therefore ideal for use in noise-sensitive environments.
AMAZONE Enquiry 47
Finding the right help to beat the heat
The only predictable factor about the weather is its unpredictability, and after a wet winter, the dry spring and hot spells in early summer have made for some challenges for grounds managers, as Jane Carley discovers.
Encouraging healthy turf growth is key, especially with busy summer sports schedules or where cricket outfields, for example, have to double up as winter pitches. Meanwhile contractors must ensure that their kit – including tractors – offers the versatility needed to match changing demands from clients.
After the very warm and dry spring, Tom Shinkins of implement manufacturer GKB Machines offers the following advice: “With the weather we’ve had this year, caution should be exercised with any kind of mechanical maintenance.
“Grounds managers and contractors should certainly refrain from anything too invasive to not cause any unnecessary stress to the plant, or any operations where moisture is required to ensure an adequate recovery,” he says.
“The key when moisture is in short supply is ensuring that, when rainfall is predicted, the water gets where it needs to be to bring maximum benefit to the plant. If rain is forecast, turf managers could employ sarel rolling with a machine like the GKB Combiseeder, to gently open the surface.
“Aerating with the GKB Deep Tine Aerator (DTA) equipped with needle tines is another effective way to alleviate any compaction and ensure the smoother downward movement of rain or liquid nutrients into the profile. However, the DTA should only be considered if irrigation is available or rain is ‘guaranteed’ to ensure the holes created don’t open up further.”
Above a certain temperature, the enzymes responsible for photosynthesis are denatured, and many plants struggle to produce enough energy to survive. This is commonly known as ‘heat stress’.
In these conditions, mowing the turf too closely can exacerbate that stress, decreasing the leaf area necessary for photosynthesis. A way to prevent this is to raise the height of cut – a strategy that also helps increase turf protection from the sun and retain soil moisture, Reesink Turfcare suggests.
Also consider routinely changing the direction of regular mowing to minimise wear patterns and keep mower blades sharp.
Cylinder mowers are the industry standard to ensure the high-quality playing surfaces, says the company.
For a walk-behind mower, Toro’s Greensmaster Flex 1021 is light and delicate on turf.
It offers exceptional manoeuvrability and its patented Flex suspension enables the cutting unit to hug the contours of greens for a crisp, precise cut.
When it comes to a ride-on, the Toro Reelmaster 3575-D with seven-inch cutting units for a low centre of gravity and smooth, turf-friendly tyres is the ideal lightweight mower to reduce turf compaction and limit damage, Reesink Turfcare’s spokesman suggests.
‘Heat stress’ and general dryness can cause a defi ciency of essential nutrients, especially nitrogen and potassium.
Potassium-rich fertiliser is critical for the overall health of the course as it enables the grass to better endure drought and hot weather by helping plant cells more effectively retain moisture and store more water.
However, remember to avoid over-fertilising – a build-up of salts in the soil can burn the grass blades and cause them to turn yellow or brown, cautions Reesink.
Lightweight recycling dresser
Campey Turf Care has introduced the new lightweight Imants Recycling Dresser (RCD)
1.3 designed for use with smaller tractors and engineered to reduce labour and material costs by recycling and redistributing substrate material across the playing surface, either the existing soil, or sand in the case of sand-based golf courses or where the natural composition of the soil substrate is sand based.
Another new feature is the new smart folding legs which double as protective side bars, for transport and storage.
Working width is 130cm with a working depth of 17.5cm respectively. Distance between digging blades is 26cm. Power requirement is 30hp.
Seeds of success
This new model, weighing 470 kg, incorporates a specially designed rear flap for improved soil management.
The flap drags in material more efficiently and breaks it up faster, speeding up drying as it goes along. This sustainable maintenance practice aerates the underlying soil both vertically and horizontally, removing soil/sand from the root zone and redistributing it. This process eliminates layering and compaction, increasing biological activity, and extending the efficacy of existing fertilisers in the soil structure.
An Imants ShockWave and Vredo overseeder supplied by Campey are playing a key role in pitch maintenance at The High School of Glasgow, where the grounds team manages a nonstop year-round schedule.
Sports play a significant role in the physical and emotional development of the pupils. A state-of-the-art sports facility at the Senior Campus is home to five full-size flood-lit pitches, one fully irrigated fibresand and the others soil-based, and two hockey pitches, one sand and the other water-based.
In the summer, the school plays cricket and provides a number of athletics events, and this nonstop
GKB Machines
Reesink Turfcare
schedule of sport is managed by Head Groundsman David Miller.
During the wetter months, the 1.6 m ShockWave is key for managing wet areas on the pitches and offpitch areas, while the 1.4 m Vredo has been crucial for preparing the rugby pitches for a long season.
“We didn't have a seeder before we got the Vredo, so it's been great for
us to use it when the conditions are best,” David explains.
“Having that flexibility has been important, but the machine's simplicity is great as well. You can change two settings, and we've got them dialled in for the areas we use it on, so anyone using it knows how to set it for the best results.
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Campey Turf Care - RCD
Campey Turf Care - RCD
“A part of keeping matches and training on during the rugby season is aeration, and that is where the ShockWave plays its part. "It does what it says on the box: it opens up the surface and effectively relieves the compaction underneath. I try to use it in the summer because it opens the ground up more when it's dry.
“We do use it on the wetter areas on some pitches, and you can play again an hour later. So, it is great for planned and reactive aeration.”
Hitting a thousand with Djuke
The milestone of the ‘1000th installation’ of Hydrowick greens drainage is on the horizon for specialist sports turf contractors Djuke, and ensuring they get there is a trio of tractors from Kubota. Djuke Managing
Director Cameron McMillan has been loyal to the brand for over 30 years, with his latest purchase of an M5-112 and L2-522 from Lister Wilder providing the dependable power to tackle every task and every terrain with ease.
Starting at the world-renowned Sunningdale Golf Club, Cameron went on to continue his course management career at Queenwood Golf Club before establishing Djuke in 2013.
The company has gone on to become the UK’s leading specialist in Hydrowick Drainage – a patented ‘wick’ system providing the fast and effective drainage of golf greens. With more intense and prolonged periods of rainfall, Cameron explains that demand is ever-increasing meaning that
reliability is pivotal to keeping the whole contracting schedule on track.
“Together with new clubs, a lot of our work is repeat custom who find that the wettest green on the course becomes the driest with Hydrowick and want to replicate that site-wide,” he explains. “Our schedule is tight so we have no margin for error, and certainly no time for machinery breakdowns!”
“Kubota, for me, has always been super reliable, comfortable and capable of everything you need from a tractor.” That confidence was reaffirmed with the recent addition of the M5-112 and L2-522 in December 2024.
The two new machines joined their existing L2-501, which continues to deliver exceptional
performance after more than 2,500 hours of service.
“Every job and every green is different so we now have machines to suit all terrain and all ground types – lightweight tractors with good pulling power for the greens, together with our new M5-112 with greater lift capacity for operating bigger equipment on fairways and sports surfaces.”
“One feature the team really like is the creeper gearbox, giving complete control over the operation of some of our bespoke and precision-based implements,” he adds.
“In addition the heated and airconditioned cabs are a popular choice, keeping us comfortable in all conditions.”
Case Study
Smarter summers for synthetic surfaces
With longer days and rising temperatures, summer presents both opportunities and challenges for synthetic turf managers.
“Summer maintenance on synthetic surfaces is all about being responsive and precise,” Redexim’s Paul Langford explains. “You need to consider when you carry out the work –early morning or late evening is best – and be aware of how high temperatures can affect the carpet and infill.”
At the heart of Redexim’s summer strategy is the RTC-E – a fully electric, ride-on grooming unit that’s purpose-built for in-house synthetic turf maintenance. Designed for daily or weekly use, the RTC-E is a zeroemission alternative to traditional petrol-driven groomers – delivering performance, consistency and comfort with no compromise on sustainability.
A paddle brush system lifts the infill and separates it from contaminants, returning the clean material to the surface and collecting unwanted debris in rearmounted bins. Interchangeable sieves and an adjustable tine section mean you can tailor the process to the pitch condition, while the Speed-Clean 1700 model offers enhanced capacity for larger facilities.
When it comes to infill health, regular brushing and decompaction is essential. That’s where Redexim’s Base-Rake range comes in.
Available with either standard or soft brushes, the Base-Rake is towed behind a compact tractor or utility vehicle and offers a multistep solution for lifting the pile, breaking up compacted infill, and restoring a level finish.
“The Major Contoura has increased our output by 25%.”
“The RTC-E is quiet, efficient, and powerful enough to groom two full-size pitches on a single charge. It’s already being adopted by organisations who want a lowmaintenance, high-performance solution that fits into their wider ESG goals.”
Key features include cruise control for uniform brushing, a quick-release battery system for flexible charging, and a smooth ride that reduces operator fatigue. Deeper cleans are best handled with the Redexim Speed-Clean –a land-driven sweeper designed to lift, separate, and clean infill from debris.
“The Base-Rake prevents the surface from becoming too firm underfoot and helps keep the fibres upright. It's a simple way to maintain both playability and safety,” says Paul. As summers become increasingly dry and unpredictable, turf professionals are having to adjust their approach.
“Teams have to be more proactive, especially on synthetic surfaces. If you leave maintenance too late or use the wrong tools, the surface can deteriorate quickly. But with the right equipment, you can stay on top of it – even in challenging conditions.”
Redexim UK Enquiry 53
Kubota
Joel Chappell, Course Manager, Coventry Golf Club
Robust, reliable and absolutely right
Major Contoura Delivers Quality, Performance and Savings for Coventry Golf Club in Warwickshire.
Founded in 1887, Coventry Golf Club is a prestigious parkland course set within 140 acres of scenic Warwickshire countryside. Known for its fastgrowing grass on clay-based soil, Course Manager Joel Chappell needed a mower that could keep up with the demanding maintenance schedule.
“Our previous rough mowers were costly to maintain and couldn’t handle the workload,” Joel explained. “With how fast the rough grows here, we’re mowing almost daily - so reliability and efficiency were critical.”
After thorough research, Joel’s team selected the Major Contoura MJ76-360, replacing
their aging equipment. “Last season we spent £13,000 just to keep a rough mower running.
For £60,000, we got a new Contoura, plus a tractor. It made financial sense.”
Cutting the rough at 45mm, Joel praised the mower’s ease of adjustment and productivity.
“The Contoura gives a clean, sharp cut across all grass types. We mow at 7 to 8 mph and cover around ten acres an hour.”
Key features of the Contoura include a 3.6m cutting width, pivoting decks and full-width rollers for professional striping.
The robust gearbox driveline ensures consistent power. “We looked at other models, but belt-driven mowers just didn’t offer the same dependability we get with the Contoura’s driveline,” he added.
Kress and Worx join Real Madrid on the path to sustainability
Real Madrid has taken another step in advancing its sustainability goals through a new strategic global partnership with Kress and Worx - a dual-brand collaboration built on share values of innovation, performance, and environmental responsibility.
At the heart of this partnership is a common belief: that excellence demands performance, and that progress must be sustainable.
Already trusted by championship golf courses and historic venues worldwide, Kress satellite-guided robot mowers have been adopted to support sustainable mowing across the Ciudad Real Madrid training complex.
The collaboration goes beyond the turf. With over 1.2 million square meters of terrain at Ciudad Real Madrid - including gardens, trees, hedges, and meadows - the club was looking for a comprehensive approach to sustainable outdoor care.
Professional-grade batterypowered tools from Kress are used to maintain the entire
Durability was another key factor. Built from Strenx™ 700MC high-strength steel and hot-dip galvanised for rust protection, the Contoura comes with a three-year warranty. “We mow near trees and hazards, so we need something tough. The galvanised finish gives us peace of mind.”
The smooth buying process and fast two-week delivery from local dealer Farol sealed the deal. “It ticks all the boxes with its solid build, great cutting and excellent reliability. Choosing the Contoura was absolutely the right decision,” Joel concluded.
To book a demonstration of a Major Contoura call Major Equipment on 01524 850501 or visit www.major-equipment.com.
Major Equipment Enquiry 54
landscape with zero emissions and near-silent operation.
The collaboration also reflects a shared sustainability mindset - one that reaches millions of fans and homeowners around the world through the Worx brand. Worx, known for its AI-driven Landroid residential robotic mowers and the versatile PowerShare battery system, empowers users to maintain their gardens and homes with cleaner, smarter, and more efficient technology.
“This is more than a sponsorship,” said Don Gao, CEO at Kress/ Worx. “It’s a declaration of intent - to lead with excellence, to innovate responsibly, and to raise the global standard of sustainable land care.”
The alignment with Kress and Worx follows Real Madrid’s broader institutional commitment to sustainability - from eco-efficient stadium renovations to electric mobility partnership and environmental education initiatives.
Kress Enquiry 55
SUPERIOR FINISH EVERYTIME
available up to 1300L. Designed and manufactured in Japan for quality that’s built to last.
Contact your local dealer to book a demo on your premises today!
UniRake essential to hybrid pitch maintenance
The Campey Turf Care Systems UniRake has become vital at Siddal Rugby League, as the amateur club aims to extend the time between renovations by removing organic matter and getting the best from their hybrid pitch.
As one of England's largest community rugby league clubs, the Halifax-based outfit has 16 teams that play over 300 games a season.
With one hybrid and one natural turf pitch, getting the most from the surfaces is essentially for hosting the high volume of games, and Siddal RL Secretary Joe McCormack is just one of the club volunteers making that happen.
Working with the advice of the Grounds Management Association
Optimising turf health with Consolidate
With a career spanning 20 years, Jamie Melham, Head Greenkeeper at one of the finest in Sussex, Highwoods Golf Club, brings his experience and collaboration with specialist for Consolidate Turf, Rob Welford, to enhance the health and aesthetics of the golf course.
He is keen to understand the science behind turf health and to implement the means to maintain it.
Jamie’s partnership with Rob Welford from Consolidate Turf started three years ago and has been instrumental in transforming the nutrient management approach at Highwoods. One specific challenge Jamie faced was the
inconsistency in fertilizer prill size from a different supplier. Initially, Rob assessed the golf course's overall plant health, leading to the transition from granular to liquid fertilizers for more consistent results, using Consolidate Plus to kickstart the greens early in the season. This approach has proven successful for three consecutive seasons.
Jamie explains “I began by applying Consolidate products to the approach areas and soon extended their use to the greens. I am now on a full annual package of Consolidate liquids, including seaweed, potassium, magnesium, and other nutrients, which are customised yearly to meet the specific needs for growth, colour and overall turf health.”
Why Turf Professionals Choose Consolidate Plus+
+ Turf Health and Nutrition + Rapid Sward Development + Easy to Use, Fast Results
Consolidate Plus+ promotes natural plant hormones, auxins in the roots and cytokinins in the shoot tips to keep the plant balanced and healthy.
Consolidate Plus+ thickens the sward and encourages tillering to improve recovery times from wear and tear.
(GMA), Siddal RL has produced first-class facilities. The GMA's recommendation of a UniRake and a visit to Manchester City Football Club to see it in action is evidence of the standards they're aiming for.
“A hybrid pitch is prone to organic matter build-up, so we were advised to keep the surface as clean as possible,” Joe explained. “I was taken to Man City by the GMA to look at a pitch that's similar to ours, and the groundsmen there explained how they use the UniRake and how beneficial it would be for us. As a volunteerrun club, raising funds for yearly pitch renovations is a challenge, and while we understand its importance, we wanted to explore ways of extending the time between them. After speaking with the
groundsmen at Man City, the GMA and Campey Product Specialist Tom Weston, it became clear that the UniRake is what we needed.
“Even though we've only had it for three or four weeks, we can see the amount of organic matter that's removed, so clearly, it's doing what we need, and I think it will be a big asset to us.”
As part of their ongoing investments, the club purchased a New Holland Boomer 25 to operate the UniRake. The versatile compact tractor is perfect for this application and other tasks around the club, making it key to pitch maintenance going forward.
Campey Turf Care Systems Enquiry 57
Visible improvement within days, lasting benefits for weeks.
For the approaches, Jamie maintains a treatment schedule of every three weeks, a practice he also applies during the winter to prevent disease.
In addition to using Consolidate products, Jamie incorporates feedback from the Sports Turf Research Institute (STRI) into his maintenance program.
The structured and scientifically backed approach to turf management, combined with Rob’s products and STRI’s analysis, provides reassurance to the club’s board, allowing Jamie to focus on maintaining his own ambitious standards.
Consolidate Turf Enquiry 58
Trust in Consolidate for Trump course grow-in
Maintaining world-class playing conditions on a rugged coastal Links course is no easy task.
At Trump International, Scotland, Course Manager Eddie Irvine and his team face the relentless challenge of keeping their renowned course pristine year-round, all while preparing for the grand opening of the New Course in the Summer of 2025.
The New Course joins the existing 18-hole Old Course, which stretches along the dramatic Aberdeenshire coastline. Achieving the perfect balance of firmness, speed, and healthy colour is a constant challenge in Links golf. Eddie first explored Consolidate products through the Scottish distributor GroGreen Ltd, working closely with Kenny Liddell to trial Consolidate Links
to see how well the product could penetrate the plant during cooler temperatures, which is a vital factor in Scotland's climate.
“The initial trial was a success,” Eddie explains. “We saw immediate improvements in colour and turf health using Consolidate Links, and from there, we expanded to using Consolidate Plus+ and Fairway. We've now integrated them into our annual agronomy programme across the entire Old Course and our grow-in plan for the New Course.
“Getting that colour and the surfaces to still be firm and fast is a great achievement. We were looking for the colour to be right. Obviously, we're a Links course, but we still want to maintain the healthy colour on the surfaces, and that's why we spoke with Kenny and trialled Consolidate.
“Our overall experience with GroGreen and Consolidate made using their products on the New Course an easy decision. Construction of the new course started in May last year, and we've been using Consolidate products on it since the end of 2024.”
At Trump International, Scotland, the entire course needs to be immaculate all year round, including the walkways.
For Eddie, one of the key strengths of working with Consolidate products is the ability to have custom mixes.
Consolidate formulated a bespoke mixture which could help elevate quality despite the harsh conditions and high foot traffic.
Consolidate Turf Enquiry 60
Club enhances turf maintenance with Foley grinders
Ballybunion Golf Club, located on the north-west coast of County Kerry, Ireland and steeped in history since its founding in 1893, is widely celebrated for its breathtaking coastal views and challenging yet rewarding links.
Continuing its tradition of excellence, Ballybunion recently acquired state-of-theart Foley grinders, comprising a Accu-Pro 633 Accu-touch 3 control cylinder grinder with rear tail lift and an Accu Pro 673 bedknife grinder, to further elevate its turf maintenance standards. The decision to invest in Foley grinders was driven
by Ballybunion’s unwavering dedication to delivering immaculate playing conditions. With such a large fleet size in regular use, the advanced automated relief and spin options offered by Foley grinders ensure that the reel’s edges remain sharp for longer, improving efficiency and playability.
Course Manager John Bambury remarked, “At Ballybunion, we pride ourselves on maintaining some of the finest greens in the world. Our new Foley grinders allow us to achieve a level of precision and consistency that aligns perfectly with our commitment to excellence.”
Ian Robson, Managing Director of ProSportUK Ltd, distributor for Foley Company in the UK and Ireland stated “We are delighted to have placed two of the latest Foley grinders into a prestigious club such as Ballybunion.
“We have had a relationship with the greens team at Ballybunion for many years after supplying and supporting the previous Neary grinders, and will continue to offer them assistance, whenever required going forward.”
Ease of use and robust training were vital considerations in choosing Foley grinders.
The intuitive design of the equipment provides Ballybunion’s maintenance team with the tools to keep the workflow going, while the thorough training ensures that team members can maximize the potential of this innovative technology.
The exceptional back-up service provided by Prosport UK and the Foley Company has been a key factor in this successful upgrade.
Foley Enquiry 61
Look out for the NEW rebranded range of AMAZONE Groundcare machines - same outstanding build quality and engineering - updated in the Green and Orange AMAZONE colours.
Take the Profihopper PH1250 and PH1500 self-propelled machines - wet or dry grass, long or short, collect or mulch, the proven Profihoppers do it all.
Don’t compromise - choose the AMAZONE Profihopper that comes with a unique auger conveying system for all weather operation and less emptying.
Contact the AMAZONE Team on: 01302 751 200.
A winning combination for over 20-years
For over 20 years, Ipswich Town Football Club has trusted ISEKI to help maintain pristine playing surfaces, ensuring every team at the club trains and plays on world class pitches.
This long-standing relationship has been built on quality, customer service, and a collaborative approach to finding the best solutions to evolving ground care demands.
As Grounds Manager Ben Connell explains, ISEKI's proximity to the club has strengthened the bond, but the machines' performance and reliability keep Ipswich Town coming back.
From routine pitch maintenance to major renovations, ISEKI's versatile range of tractors and mowers ensures Ipswich Town can maintain the highest standards
across Playford Road training ground and at Portman Road.
One of the latest additions to Ipswich Town's fleet is the Iseki SXG327, chosen specifically to enhance the presentation of areas surrounding the pitches at the training ground.
Ben explains: “We wanted a slightly different approach to tidying up the off-pitch areas.
“So, we've gone for the SXG327 with the collector on the back, and the suction is fantastic. It keeps everything very tidy when we're cutting, and it can get into every area we need it to. The team was thrilled when we got one, and they were all really happy to work with it.”
While the SXG keeps offpitch areas immaculate, the TG series takes care of the heavier lifting across all Ipswich
Blown away by the PB-9010T
Having developed the first ever backpack blower in the early 1970s, ECHO know a thing or two about blowers.
They have recently launched the PB-9010T backpack blower. Built for professional
users and heavy-duty applications, it boasts an industry-leading 48.9N of blowing force, making debris removal almost effortless.
The PB-9010T is the culmination of years of designing machines that are not only powerful, but put operator comfort at the forefront of the process.
The combination of a powerful 79.9cc engine, air speed of 97.8m/s and a maximum air volume of 1907m³/h enables operators to complete tasks faster and more efficiently .
With operator comfort in mind, the PB-9010T features a
Town’s grounds. They offer the versatility needed for a wide range of tasks, and the ability to quickly switch implements is an indispensable asset.
The TH series brings essential lifting and loading capabilities to the Ipswich Town grounds team. Designed for versatility and efficiency, this tractor plays a vital role in handling bulk materials, moving essential equipment, and assisting with pitch renovations. Working with local
5-point anti-vibration system, ergonomic backpack straps, and a hip belt to reduce fatigue. The unique operator back ventilation system provides cooling airflow during hot weather and can be disabled for colder conditions, ensuring year-round comfort.
A patented metal wear ring enhances durability and protects the blower tube from wear, while the top-mounted, tool-less air fi lter allows quick maintenance in the field.
Built-in cruise control means constant speed is easy to maintain.
ECHO Enquiry 64
New mowing partnership with Baroness
With two new mowers from Baroness it’s ‘onwards and upwards’ for the maintenance team at Moffat Golf Club.
Situated in the heart of the Southern Upland Hills of Scotland, the challenging topography of the moorland course has proved no match for the new LM311 triple greens and LM551B fairway mower which are delivering improvements in
cut quality and presentation to the delight of the members.
For Course Manager Fraser Mitchell the recent purchase was made even more exciting by the fact the pair of Baroness machines were the first new additions to the club’s machinery fleet for many years.
Baroness Enquiry 66
ISEKI dealer Ernest
Doe, Ben wanted to address the weight of the machines and decided to use a cabless tractor on the stadium pitch with galaxy flotation turf tyres to eliminate any wheel marks.
ISEKI Enquiry 63
Turf Tank for carbon neutral line marking
In line with its carbon-neutral site, Galaxy Sports Little Kerse is using the Turf Tank One to meet their sustainability goals and raise the standards of their lines.
The 35-acre site in Falkirk, Scotland, has 11 pitches ranging from 11-a-side grass to fullsize 3G and astroturf 6-a-side pods. The facility is at the heart of the community, catering for everyone from children to amateur and professional footballers.
Whilst the Turf Tank fits perfectly within their sustainability ethos, Galaxy Sports' main aim was to raise the standard of line marking and relieve pressure on staff who would have to mark 11-a-side match pitches and bespoke PAN Disability Football League pitches regularly. Operations Manager Sean wanted to provide the best pitches possible for the customers, and a significant part of that was looking for an alternative way to mark lines that fit in with their sustainability goals.
“The Turf Tank runs on a completely carbon-neutral site; it's all on green energy,” Sean explained. "The energy that charges the Turf Tank batteries comes from the sun that's shining today, so it's a fantastic example of our sustainability and priorities at Galaxy Sports Little Kerse for the way forward.
“We used to go out and manually mark the pitches, but we realised we weren't meeting the standard we wanted. Now, the lines are night and day. They're a great standard, and the precision of the Turf Tank is fantastic. We're
over the moon with it, and it's definitely saved us hours on end. We probably mark lines now for half a day and only mark out what we need, so we're saving paint and time.
“With the robot, it's been great because we're able to add our logo onto the pitches, and again, we use it during these busy periods where the customers can see it, and we get great questions and feedback.
“The logo marking is going to be a part of attracting sponsors to our Galaxy Foundation, and that's something we never would have been able to achieve manually. But for us, it's a fantastic marketing material and a talking point at the site.”
While the Turf Tank produces consistently excellent lines and enables logos to be marked, its impact on the wider site is also important. With less time spent marking, the focus goes on tidying the site, maintaining goals and completing other tasks.
There's also some stress relief from keeping the lines marked in. The grass is cut once a week on-site, but rather than following it with a marker, pitches can now be lined as and when needed, and last-minute bookings can be accommodated easily.
A factor in doing that is the simplicity of using the robot. The set-up means multiple staff can contribute to line marking, and for Football Operations Manager Alastair, the ease of use comes hand in hand with achieving higher standards.
Turf Tank Enquiry 67
The simple solution from Campey
The CAMPEY LM3010 / LM3012 is a simple, durable and easy to operate liquid transfer line marker.
Marking material is transferred from the 30ltr hopper to the 10cm or 12cm wide marking wheel by a grooved rubber roller, giving even, accurate lines.
Features adjustable, tubular steel handles, pneumatic tyres and has an adjustable flow rate. Front roller allows marking up to post or flag.
Recommended marking materials include propriety marking paints, emulsion paint. Always check marking materials comply with H.S.E guidelines for sports field use.
Campey Turf Care Systems Enquiry 68
MAKE YOUR MARK
With our range of line marking machines and consumables
We supply leading technology brands TinyMobileRobots and iGo, together with a comprehensive range of Impact ready-to-use and Duraline dilutable concentrate paints. So, whether you need cutting-edge GPS robotic technology, the convenience of a spray marker machine, or the traditional transfer wheel marker, we have the product, expertise and support you need.
A Mark of Success – How Groundtel line marking capabilities service 150 schools
Groundtel Ltd is a family-run business with a proud reputation for precision, reliability and service. With over 150 schools on its books, the company has become one of the region’s leading grounds maintenance providers.
At the heart of operations is Danny Perkins, Contracts Manager and member of the founding family, who’s helped steer the business into the next generation of efficiency with the help of robotic line marking machines.
“We were already delivering a high standard,” says Danny, “but the TinyLineMarker robots have taken us to a different level. They’ve paid for themselves ten times over.”
Each season, Groundtel’s team prepares a wide range of sports markings across school playing fields. For summer months, this
includes 100m, 200m, 300m, and 400m running tracks, complete with relay boxes, rounders and softball pitches, and throwing areas for javelin, discus, and shot putt. In winter, the focus shifts to football pitches, rugby pitches, and training grids, all initially marked and then overmarked throughout the season as required.
The 20-strong grounds team has a significant workload and has a twoperson team dedicated solely to line marking. Historically, that meant traditional pedestrian machines, such as push-along markers, a Fast Liner, and plenty of manual setup.
“That’s a lot of tape measures and string lines,” Danny comments.
“It was time-consuming and hard to keep up when schools need everything done quickly and precisely. Once we brought in the TinyLineMarker robot, everything changed.”
Groundtel took delivery of their first TinyLineMarker Pro X in 2021, followed by a second robot 12–18 months later. Both are now integral to operations, running daily from late February to July.
“With the robots and some long hours, we have been known to overmark over 100 schools in 7 to 10 days. Before, it would take about four weeks. However, on average, we run the robots for six to eight hours daily.”
Initial marking has seen the most significant impact, with the robots removing the need for traditional set-out methods.
“It’s incredibly accurate,” says Danny. “You just load the template on the tablet, and it remembers exactly where to mark, even if the lines have disappeared after cutting. Schools appreciate that kind of consistency.”
The robots' size and weight were a major consideration. “I looked at Turf Tank, but it was too heavy. I couldn’t lift it in and out of the van alone. The Tiny robot is light, compact, and fits easily in the back of a small van, which makes life a lot easier.”
Rough and uneven ground is a common challenge across school fields, particularly in the state sector. “That’s another reason the TinyLineMarker works so well for us. It’s robust and can handle bumpy surfaces where other machines might struggle.”
Groundtel uses IMPACT ® Pro paint from Origin Amenity Solutions for both their robotic and two iGO Premier Pedestrian markers. Danny says, “It’s a perfect match. The robot’s set to moderate speed, and the lines are bright, crisp, and clean. And because the paint’s ready-mixed, there’s no faffing around with water. It saves time and hassle, and we get a consistent finish across every pitch.”
In addition to time and paint efficiency, the robots have helped Groundtel reduce labour demand and improve safety and sustainability, which are key concerns for schools.
“The schools prefer the robots,” Danny says. “They’re small, quiet, and there are no fuel emissions. This ticks a lot of environmental boxes. From a health and safety point of view, especially during the school day, it’s a win.”
Behind the technology is a strong support system, which is something Danny values. “The training was excellent, and the support from Origin Amenity Solutions is brilliant. It’s one thing to buy a product, but having ongoing help makes a huge
difference. I can ring Simon or Joe and get an answer immediately without waiting for a call-out, although that’s also available. A quick answer on the phone saves me so much wasted time.”
Origin Amenity Solutions is the sole UK distributor of TinyMobileRobots and one of the leading providers of GPS line marking. The company offers one of the most comprehensive line marking ranges in the UK and Ireland, including pedestrian and ride-on machines, readyto-use paints, and advanced robotic technology. All paints and machines are manufactured
within the Origin group, ensuring consistent, highquality performance backed by nationwide support and product expertise.
For Danny and the team at Groundtel, the move to robotic line marking has exceeded every expectation. “We’ve saved time, reduced labour, improved accuracy and consistency. I wouldn’t go back. The robots are a vital part of how we operate now, and they’ve transformed the service we can offer our schools.”
Origin Amenity Solutions Enquiry 70
Agrovista Amenity is enhancing its line marking capabilities with a major investment in robotic technology and key industry appointments.
As part of this strategy, the company has secured an exclusive partnership with XDC Autonomous Solutions for the distribution of the RM21 Combo Mower in the UK and Ireland.
Alongside this, the appointment of David Mitchell as Line Marking Business Development Manager reinforces Agrovista Amenity’s commitment to innovation and expertise in the sector.
The RM21, distributed exclusively by XDC, is a game-changing piece of equipment that combines line marking and mowing in a single unit. Unlike traditional line marking robots or standalone mowers, the RM21 can autonomously cut and mark a pitch.
Agrovista Amenity Enquiry 72
Lasting progress with the Terra Float Air
Dan Kendle, course manager at Newquay Golf Club in Cornwall, readily acknowledges his Wiedenmann Terra Float Air as invaluable.
In August 2021, he and his team, which now numbers six, took delivery of theirs from, David Barnes, turf sales specialist at dealer, Mason Kings.
“The Air has become one of my favourite pieces of kit; we get out as often as we can to keep pumping seed in at all different rates,” he said.
“Predominantly, we use it on greens; we load it with fescue and go around maybe six or seven times a year, but it does get used on tees and fairways,
too. There’s been a continuous improvement each of the last three years with more fescue added. Improving sward composition is a slow process but it’s definitely happening and I’m really pleased.
“We always prepare by putting a bit of top dressing down ahead which helps as a carrier to get the seed into the holes, and then after, we stick an iron behind to roll and smooth.
“The golfers barely notice we’ve been out. It’s just easy and that’s what I love about it most…it causes no fuss.”
Wiedenmann UK Enquiry 73
GKB Sandspreader proves tough to beat
The right machine to get your work done
The Eco 250 Top Dresser, supplied by Geko Engineering Ltd, has a centrifugal dual spinner system provides a wide and even spread pattern, whilst excellent weight distribution and stability of the fourwheel design contributes to exceptional handling even with heavier products.
The ECO 250 is easy to steer around trees and obstacles and performs even tight turns with ease.
Easy ramp loading into a van or trailer, built in tie down points for securing during transport.
It has a spreading width of 1.20m to 5.4m and a hopper capacity of 325 L / 220 kg.
Powered by professional Honda GX 160 engine, it has dual contra rotating spinners, an infinitely adjustable gate to control the flow of the material that goes out and can spread compost, sand, all kind of soil mixes, crumb rubber, lime, most pelletized and granular material.
What’s top of the priority list when it comes to purchasing a topdresser?
For Gavin Playford of Royal West Norfolk Golf Club it’s build quality, which is why he opted for an SP100 from the GKB Sandspreader range.
So impressed when he first saw the machine on display at The Doe Show 2025, Gavin placed the order there and then - without even having a demonstration.
Nestled between the beach and salt marshes, the traditional links course at Royal West Norfolk has been under the stewardship of Gavin for the last 39 years.
Currently assisted by a team of six, Gavin outlines that the club opt for a ‘little and often’ approach to topdressing. “Depending on conditions
and available resources, we try to dress the greens every two to four weeks which not only benefits plant health but helps to keep the golfers on side compared to less frequent, heavier applications.”
“Over the years we’ve used a various makes and models of dresser but were struck by the build quality of the GKB machine as soon as we saw it at The Doe Show back in February. We had the opportunity to have a really good chat with GKB’s Tom Shinkins and discussed opting for the electronic controls to enhance consistency and make setting the distribution rates much easier.
“Nothing was too much trouble, and just a few weeks later the SP100 was delivered by Eddie Jack of Ernest Doe, just in time for renovation season.”
The GKB Sandspreader range features four different hopper capacities and trailed or mounted models for ultimate versatility on every surface.
With an existing John Deere ProGator in the shed, Gavin opted for the mounted SP100 with its 1.0m 3 hopper and up to 10m working width.
“The hopper is slightly bigger than our previous topdresser which has given us some noticeable productivity gains and the electronic controls have definitely made adjusting the rates much easier.”
He adds, “Along with topdressing greens, we’ve also used the SP100 to apply compost to the fairways which worked very well! Overall, the team have been very impressed.”
GKB Machines Enquiry 74
New additions to the ICL spreader range
ICL is pleased to announce the launch of two new spreaders, the AccuPro 360ST and the AccuPro DROP, enhancing the spreader range that already includes the AccuPro One, HandyPro, and Shaker Pro.
These new models replace the SR2000 and the SS-2, respectively, offering advanced features and improved performance.
The AccuPro 360ST, replacing the SR-2000, is the latest professional rotary spreader, designed to meet the highest standards of turf management.
Central to its performance is the innovative SmartSpread™ system, which ensures even and precise application of granular fertilisers, essential for achieving consistent and uniform turf health.
Key features:
• SmartSpread ™ : Located under the hopper, SmartSpread ™ directs granules on the impeller based on their size and weight. For example, applications of ProTurf or Sierrablen Plus, which consist of larger and heavier granules, are directed towards the centre of the impeller to gain the necessary centrifugal force for effective spreading. Conversely, applications of products like Sierraform GT, which consist of smaller and lighter granules, are placed closer to the outer edge of the impeller where less force is required for even distribution. This precise adjustment ensures each granule type is accurately accounted for, resulting in an optimal spread pattern and promoting uniform turf health.
• Robust Stainless-Steel Frame: Designed for durability and long-lasting performance.
• Maintenance-Free Gearbox: Ensures smooth and consistent operation with minimal maintenance.
• High capacity, durable hopper: A 30kg capacity hopper that enhances the flow of granules to the impeller.
• Pneumatic Turf Tyres: Distributes weight evenly, preventing turf damage and ensuring smooth mobility across different surfaces.
Replacing the SS-2, the AccuPro DROP is a professional drop spreader engineered for ultraaccurate application of grass seed, conventional release granular fertilisers, and granular wetting agents. It features the innovative SmartDial™ system, simplifying spreader setting adjustments and ensuring ease-of-use and precision.
Key features:
• SmartDial ™ : Makes spreader setting adjustments straightforward and precise.
• Large Stainless-Steel Hopper: Designed with a secure seal to prevent leakage of small products
and ample capacity for various applications.
• Robust Heavy-Duty Frame: Built to withstand rigorous use.
• Pneumatic Turf Tyres: Ensures even weight distribution, preventing turf damage and allowing smooth mobility across various surfaces.
• Ergonomic Extended Handle: Provides comfort during extended use.
• Front and Rear Lift Handles: Facilitate easy loading and unloading.
Both the AccuPro 360ST and AccuPro DROP spreaders' advanced features ensure reliable performance and precision for all your spreading needs, supported by a three-year limited warranty.
Additionally, both the AccuPro 360ST and AccuPro DROP spreaders can be claimed through Turf Rewards.
These two new additions to ICL’s spreader range demonstrate their commitment to innovation, quality, and excellence in turf management.
ICL Enquiry 77
Turf maintenance equipment from Turfco
Turfco turf maintenance equipment is ideal for fine turf management with a range of overseeding and topdressing machines, which can be tractormounted and towed-behind a suitable transport unit.
They are ideal for recreational and professional sports pitches, stadium pitches, cricket outfields and most fine turf areas on golf courses.
The TriWave 60 and TriWave 45 are a new breed of overseeder that can significantly increase the success of overseeding operations by up to 30%, especially on contoured ground.
Disruption of existing turf, the inability to follow ground contours and limited seed germination when using existing equipment, was the driving force behind this development.
WaveBlade counter-rotating blade technology creates a
U-shaped slit (instead of the usual V-shaped slit of competitor products) providing more seed to soil contact and the patented seed delivery system places seeds into the slits without waste, increasing germination.
The TriWave 45 is a selfcontained trailed overseeder, which can be towed behind a utility vehicle, quad bike, bunker rake or tractor, and provides versatility and easiest operation of any overseeder on the market. Power comes from an 18.4 kW (25 hp) Briggs and Stratton Vanguard petrol engine and it quickly attaches to most turf vehicles making it convenient and efficient to use.
WideSpin 1550 topdressers are available in truck-mounted and tow-behind models with petrol engine or hydraulic power options. They are available with standard electronic control or a patented digital Smart Controller. Standard electronic control
models are easy to use and offer good value for the money. Smart Controller models offer rate calculation and programmable pre-sets for greater productivity and labour savings.
Calculating and retaining application rates is easier. Adjusting settings is easier and saving preferred settings is easier. Loading is easier. Topdressing all types of sports pitches is easier. And getting the exact spread required, every time, is easier.
The unique design makes it easy to get whatever width and rate you want, without mechanical adjustments. Save preferred applications into four programmable pre-sets, changing widths and rates on the fly, increasing productivity, eliminating guesswork and freeing up your time.
Turfco Enquiry 78
Maintain quality with EcoCure
Over the past decade, ELIET has established itself as a complete supplier for lawn care and fine turf renovation and the manufacturer is now offering a new product to add to the range of climate range solutions - the ELIET EcoCure ZR WS, a self-propelled topdresser which improves lawn and turf quality.
allowing optimal topdressing both forwards and reverse.
Other features include a large 400 litre load container and large tyres to distribute the load so the machine leaves no marks.
The ELIET EcoCure ZR WS is only 90cm wide fits through narrow spaces. The movement drive is fully hydrostatic with continuously adjustable forward and reverse speed, making the machine very manurable and
A 45cm wide conveyor belt, hydraulically driven and electrically is activated via a switch and spreading materials fall on to two fast rotating hydraulically-driven spreading discs to evenly eject materials up to 5 metres.
