Number 1 for turfcare professionals
Issue 142| January 2020
Inside Robotic Mowers Water Management BTME Preview
Staying ahead with irrigation
See us at BTME Wiedenmann Aeration, aeration, aeration Stand 218
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Get MORE from your turfcare partner this year: More products . More advice . More training . More finance
Member of Royal Reesink Reesink Turfcare UK Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Images shown for illustration only. Editor: Grahame Anderson Comment [email protected] Tel: 01892 575520
Consulting Editor: Mervyn Barnard [email protected] The fantastic journey 01892 575516 Advertising Sales: ahead starts now Larissa Marchant Walters 01892 575511 Welcome on behalf of everyone at Turf Business to a brand We love our remote/robotic mowers, and suddenly the [email protected] new year – with an exciting journey ahead of us at the start technology available is truly mind-blowing as you'll of a fresh and vibrant decade. The BIGGA Turf Management discover. From Husqvarna to Ryetec, standards are at their Advertising Production: June Barnard Exhibition will soon be upon us, and we present a flavour apex – but we also feature a very special remote control [email protected] of what you might expect from this year's offering in mower making new friends at the University of Aberdeen. 01892 575516 Harrogate. It's the year of the third Turf Business Summit and in Turf Business was invited to take part in a trip to the terms of venues the bar has been raised higher and Digital Production: STIHL plant in Austria – a real eye opener, and we can also higher. We can reveal in this issue just where the 2020 Jack Smart report on some of the incredible tools currently being double venue meeting of minds will take place, and we [email protected] produced at the plant. guarantee you won't be disappointed. 01892 575517 Water management is extremely important in the turf Our Top Turf Influencers Awards continue to be a huge industry, and this issue gives us the opportunity to focus success, and this time around you've been voting in large Publisher: on the Rainbird and Hunter systems currently being numbers for those selfless individuals who inspire Martin Smart offered along with ClearWater and Duncan Ross initiatives. everyone around them. Each nomination has an 01892 664555 The famous Hurlingham Club is heavenly as far as Neil impressive story to tell. But we're sure you'll love [email protected] Harvey is concerned, and it's a privilege to be able to discovering a little more about this year’s outstanding Turf Business is published by: profile the wonderful work going on close to the banks of winner. More inside. Turf Business Ltd the Thames. In our careers section Emma Otusajo looks at Put all that together with a package of the latest Lilac House what may be involved for those turfcare professionals who industry news and you have a great read to start off the Whitehill Road choose to work abroad. New Year in style. All the best for the journey ahead. Crowborough East Sussex TN6 1JP
Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information Contents in this magazine is correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility for the standing of advertisers nor any editorial News ...... 04 contributions. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of News Extra ...... 14 the publishers. Profile ...... 16 28 © Turf Business 2020 Top Turf Influencer 2019 ...... 18 Check out Turf Business TV Turf Business Summit ...... 22 for the latest industry Dealership Focus ...... 27 interviews & product news
Robotic Mowers ...... 28 Water Management ...... 32
BTME Preview ...... 38 38 TV Turf Careers ...... 50
DESIGN : CONSTRUCTION : RENOVATION Pitch Construction : Piped Drainage Systems Sand Slitting Blec Vibro Sand Banding : Koro Surfacing Vertidraining : Topdressing : Overseeding Koro Scarify : Weed Control : Landscaping
t 01257 255321
www.duncanrossltd.co.uk SPECIALIST SPORTSTURF CONTRACTOR
IOG recommends 2.5 per cent pay rise for groundstaff The Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG) is around 2%, with most forward-looking basic pay recommending a 2.5 per cent increase in grounds settlements being between 2-4%. Over half of staff’s national minimum salary bands for 2020. employers predict that their 2020 pay award will be In addition, says the IOG, the amount paid in between 2-3%, so the IOG’s recommended uprating recognition of IOG qualifications should increase to should ensure pay rates remain competitive. £600 per band (a 4.3% increase) to ensure an Says IOG chief executive Geoff Webb: “Over half ongoing focus on training and professional of head grounds staff earn more than £25,000 per development. The total amount received should be annum and a fifth earn over £40,000. Feedback directly linked to the highest qualification level during interviews indicated that some head held and equates to £600 for each level attained grounds staff are earning considerably more than (eg £2,400 for a Level 4 qualification). £40,000. The IOG’s recommendations have been made “Clearly, the range of salaries is very wide and against a backdrop of “considerable uncertainty in individuals doing similar jobs, sometimes for both the economic and political context”, says the similar employers, can be earning significantly IOG. different salaries.” Median projected pay awards for 2020 are www.iog.org
Rigby Taylor’s new line markers are in line for top marks Rigby Taylor has added two innovative machines to of formulations for use on a wide range of surfaces - its highly successful Glider, iGO Advance and iGO natural, hybrid and synthetic grass as well as hard Mini spray line marking range. surfaces including tarmacadams and concrete. The new iGO Prime and iGO Midi machines Rigby Taylor was the first sports and amenity feature a number of advanced features including an distribution company to introduce its own range of innovative circulatory paint system for dispensing the branded turf protection products, and it entered into company’s award-winning Impact paints. long-term supply partnerships with major This innovative system primes the paint and at the international research-based organisations which same time mixes or recirculates it back into the saw Rigby Taylor as the perfect conduit for promoting drum/container. This means it is re-dispersing the and supplying products. product, which in turn thins the paint and produces The company employs over 50 field-based an easier spraying experience, as the flow is technical personnel, supported by agronomy improved. The system continually recirculates the specialists in grass seed selection, plant nutrition, paint for improved flow and facilitates easier water management, plant protection, line marking, machine cleaning. irrigation and drainage. Impact paint formulations are available in a choice www.rigbytaylor.com
Leicester City’s Callum Allsop wins IOG award Leicester City’s Callum Allsop wins IOG award my local club at 14 and really enjoyed it,” says Award sponsors Toro and Reesink Turfcare, an Callum. “Since then, I’ve worked my way up and official UK Toro distributor, are delighted to worked hard to get to where I am, and education announce Callum Allsop from Leicester City has been a large part of that career progression for Football Club’s Belvoir Drive training ground has me.” been crowned the Most Promising Sports Turf Marketing manager at Reesink, Rochelle Bedford, Student of the Year at the 10th annual Institute of says: “Sponsoring this award is just another Groundsmanship (IOG) Awards. demonstration of ours and Toro’s long-term Having worked in the turf industry for 10 years, commitment to the development of the industry Callum was recognised for his dedication to the and our investment in the careers of young people; industry and education. As well as leading a team a hugely important undertaking for us. of nine as head groundsman at Leicester City “It’s wonderful to see Callum has achieved so Football Club’s Belvoir Drive, Callum is also much in his career already, and we hope the award currently undergoing studies for his Level 3 in helps him to progress his career further and inspire Sports Turf Management. more young talent like himself.” “I got involved in the industry volunteering at www.reesinkturfcare.co.uk.
04 January 2020 www. .co.uk
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PROUDLY BRITISH GreenMech EVO becomes ‘pride of the fleet’ Taking delivery in June this year, Chipper Hire EVO handling high volumes of timber, including South West became the very first UK rental conifer, with ease while the more aggressive torque company to add a GreenMech EVO 165D and heavier flywheel offers processing power and woodchipper to their ever-expanding fleet. With a throw that outperforms competitor machines in its portfolio that spans tracked, road-tow and category.” pedestrian units, their latest addition has exceeded For Col, the EVO 165D is now the pride of his the expectations, and some, for Owner Col fleet and sits alongside some further recent Bachmann. additions including an ArbTrak 200, two more 19- Having spotted a niche in his geographical area, 28 SAFE-Trak’s and a CS100. “Because we run such Col added chippers to his plant hire fleet in 2015 a large fleet, we are fortunate in that we can turn to before spinning Chipper Hire South West off as a GreenMech or their comprehensive dealer network separate entity in late 2016. “We’ve used for support. When people are relying on our GreenMech right from the start” he explains “and chippers to deliver on projects and contracts, it’s now have machines from 4” right through to 8” to imperative they are well serviced, and the back-up satisfy the varied requirements of our client base.” support we receive is second to none.” “The new, larger infeed configuration sees the www.greenmech.co.uk
Lochemse raise fairway standards with Jacobsen After greenkeepers and members became frustrated blades,” said Geert. with the quality of cut and condition of the fairways The success of the 305 stems from its simplicity. at Lochemse Golf Club, head greenkeeper, Geert It’s a machine that’s built to be reliable and gives Olthuis, switched brands to Jacobsen and has used a operators unsurpassed productivity while providing Fairway 305 to turn things around. an unrivalled quality of cut. No stone was left unturned by Geert in his search This cut quality comes from the five 66cm for a new fairway mower. He trialled five machines floating head cutting units that follow all contours from different suppliers before the cut quality, and and undulations to ensure an even cut on all areas. simplicity of the Jacobsen 305 was picked to elevate The floating head system works with the four- the fairways aesthetics and performance. wheel-drive – provided as standard – which Initially sceptical about the mower specification, provides greater traction and causes reduced turf he explained: “When we saw the cutting finish, we compaction. couldn’t believe it because it was so good. I was Productivity is increased across the machine in unsure of the Fairway 305 when I first saw it because several areas, including the cutting units that don’t it only had seven blades and no groomers, but it cut require any tools to adjust the reel to bedknife. better than our mower that had groomers and 11 www.jacobsenbuilt.com
New GKB Sandspreader SP100 for Kingfishers Golf Club Home to a picturesque 18-hole golf course set in 120 with industrial durability. Available in four different acres of rural Suffolk, Kingfishers Golf Club has designs with several options, Kingfishers Golf Club recently purchased a GKB Sandspreader SP100 to will mostly be sanding their greens with the GKB maintain their impressive grounds, through GKB’s Sandspreader SP100. Accurately applying sand and distributor Ernest Doe. in varying quantities to keep golf courses in prime “Finding a machine that‘s compatible with our condition, this machine is ideal for both construction Jacobsen Truckster was essential to us and a main and maintenance. factor when choosing the GKB Sandspreader SP100,” A family-owned business, every GKB Machine explains Matthew Thacker, Managing Director of must satisfy the company’s high-quality Kingfishers. Matthew also comments on the quality requirements that are imposed. A sustainable, of customer service and the product range offered by reliable and robust machine is the foundation for the GKB and its distributor Ernest Doe saying, “GKB operation. machines are extremely well designed and built.” For more on GKB Machines and their reliable and Developed and produced in GKB Machines’ Dutch robust range of machinery for natural, hybrid and energy neutral industrial plant the GKB synthetic turf, please visit the website. Sandspreader SP100 showcases premium quality www.gkbmachines.com
06 January 2020 www. .co.uk RTC makes regular brushing a breeze at St Mirren To keep on top of the maintenance of a newly-laid 4G astro surface at their Ralston Training Complex, St Mirren FC have purchased an RTC unit from Charterhouse Turf Machinery. For the facility’s sole Groundsman, Alan Michie, it has improved both the efficiency and speed of regular surface brushing. Forming part of the 3.7 hectare site, the artificial pitch is home to first team and academy training throughout the week, and matches at the weekend. “Just before the 4G pitch was open for play in September, I was very pleased to find a new RTC brush unit from Charterhouse land at my door” explains Alan, who has been running the training ground for the last two and a half years. “We had previously used a tractor and brush combination which wasn’t the most practical – timely to set up and, being in one of the wettest areas in the country, often meant I was unable to get out at all.” “The Chairman and Head Groundsman at the stadium had been in talks with Ian Lauder of Charterhouse and decided the versatility and me. He finds it therapeutic!” as 90cm, although when deployed, the unit will simplicity of the RTC was a perfect fit to keep on top The convenience of a self-contained unit means cover an impressive 200cm in one-pass. “I can also of the regular maintenance. Ian came in to do some Alan can easily keep up with the regular use the tow bar on the back to take other tools out training with me, but it’s so simple to use, it’s maintenance on the high-wear surface, brushing on with me that I use for work on the natural grass fantastic. If I’m struggling for time, the guy who looks average five or six times a week. The RTC brushes fold pitches. It pulls a small trailer no problem.” after our youth department will go out and brush for to allow storage and access through gaps as narrow www.charterhouse-tm.co.uk
HIGH LIFT CAPACITY DOESN’T MEAN EXCESSIVE HORSEPOWER
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www. .co.uk January 2020 07 Toro the driving force at The Drift The Drift Golf Club in Surrey has continued its the quality and robustness of the Toro machines we investment in Toro as it embarks on a £1 million bought some equipment alongside the lease deal, project to bring in new facilities and continue the so we’re in a win-win situation.” improvement in the course seen over recent years. The new fleet comes at a prime time for The Drift, In an enduring relationship with Toro, the club with the course undergoing extensive has purchased some equipment to run alongside its improvements and developments, as Mark explains: Toro lease deal, citing the brand’s quality and “We’ve just started work on our driving range, which longevity. is a £1 million project to bring in new facilities, and Course manager Mark Ogden says: “We see the part of a wider plan to improve the course. Having value in both leasing and purchasing Toro. With a new Toro machinery is a large part of that process.” lease deal we can spread our budget across the year Mark concludes by saying: “The course has really and upgrading to new machines every five years flourished recently with a growing membership to decreases the maintenance time needed and prove it. Having Toro on board keeps the team and ensures the best quality cut at all times. our members safe in the knowledge the course will “I’ve always been a big fan of Toro as the quality be maintained to a consistently high standard.” of their machines is clear. We’re so confident with www.reesinkturfcare.co.uk
Terrain Aeration score croquet points in Shropshire The market town of Church Stretton lies in the to open up the ground for better drainage,” says Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Michael Turner, the Council’s Amenities and Services Nicknamed ‘Little Switzerland’ in the late Victorian Officer, “and with the ground being so hard it needed period for its landscape, the local geology has some breaking up very much deeper than normal of the oldest rocks in England. aeration.” Among the many amenities the town has to offer, Terrain Aeration carried out the work over one and Church Stretton Town Council provides facilities such a half days, with their Terralift machine’s JCB hammer as crazy golf, hard tennis courts, a bowling green and slicing through the compaction to allow the hollow croquet pitches. The two croquet lawns at Sandford probe to reach up to a metre under the lawns. Avenue had been placed on a hard surface and over Michael adds: “The whole process was very clean time, becoming so compacted, they developed and professional and Terrain Aeration were nice severe waterlogging problems. Good management people to work with. We’ve done a further piece of proving very difficult, the Council looked around for a work with scarification and the combination of the solution and after a number of consultations brought two is bringing the results we wanted. We’re very in Terrain Aeration. happy with the work done.” “We chose to go with Terrain because we needed www.terrainaeration.co.uk
STIHL launches new innovative pro cordless mower STIHL continues to expand its range of high- The ergonomic mono-comfort handlebar, with performance mowers with the introduction of the new super soft grip, is adjustable to three different heights, RMA 765 V, a professional cordless mower with a allowing users to find the most suitable setting and 63cm cutting width, ideal for landscapers tackling providing easier access to the grass catcher box. large grass cutting jobs. Designed with strength, weight and protection in Powered by a 36V high capacity Lithium-Ion mind, the aluminium and polymer hybrid housing batteries from the STIHL PRO cordless system, the features front, side and gearbox protection, as well as robust RMA 765 V is ideal for work in noise-sensitive the polymer inner housing being impact and abrasion areas and is highly manoeuvrable thanks to the zero resistant. In addition, the 63cm cutting deck utilises turn function of the front wheels. Both front and rear synchronised multi-blades that lift the grass, cut it wheels are height adjustable from 25mm-100mm. efficiently and blow the cuttings into the catcher bag. The new mower boasts an innovative five-speed Thanks to the optimised design shape and air control panel, featuring an eco-mode and a battery guide, the 80 litre bag can be 100% filled, while the power level indicator to ensure professional users combination of tear resistant fabric, polymer base and have full sight of the performance of the machine at a steel frame ensure the catcher box is hard wearing. quick glance. www.stihl.co.uk
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The turf industry is rapidly changing and if golf courses and greenkeepers are to thrive in a highly-competitive environment, we need to embrace new ideas and ways EDUCATEof thinking, evolving our methods to suit modern needs. For almost 30 years BTME has been at the forefront of that change and the 2020 exhibition will feature product EXHIBITlaunches, major industry announcements and everything IZSPZIyou’d expect from Europe’s premier turf industry event. Dennis PRO 34R exceeds standard for rotary mowers Dylan Thompson, grounds maintenance manager wanted most and this was based on my previous at The Football Association of Wales (FAW) new experience of using Dennis Mowers,” he said. “I had £5m Colliers Park Football Development Centre, heard about it on social media and I spoke to other based near Wrexham, believes that the Dennis PRO people in the industry – I heard so many good 34R far exceeds every rotary mower he has used in things about it and to not hear anything negative the past. whatsoever was obviously a massive positive.” The former Sheffield Wednesday FC assistant “It’s very impressive – I was expecting it to be head groundsman has been in the top role at good but not this good!” continued Dylan. “The Colliers Park for six months now and is already clean-up is absolutely fantastic no matter if it is wet making his mark. or dry and it sucks up so much into the grass The FAW left no stone unturned in the launch of collection box. It is also quick so we are saving time – Colliers Park and Dylan found himself in the we are normally going on speed setting 3 which is fortunate position of receiving an arsenal of brand- the perfect speed for us. We have tight turnarounds new turf maintenance products – two of which were so the size of these mowers is ideal because you can Dennis PRO 34R’s. get so much done in little time. “To be honest, the PRO 34R was the machine I www.dennisuk.com
Productivity and reliability from Toro at Stowmarket GC As part of a significant investment project, continuity of Toro and although the old machine is Stowmarket Golf Club has committed to its first fleet still going strong, we demonstrated a number of five deal with Toro and distributor Reesink Turfcare. unit machines but opted for the wider machine Stowmarket Golf Club, set in the beautiful again, ensuring minimal disruption and increasing Finborough Park in Suffolk, has long been a Toro productivity.” customer, but this is the first time it has bought As well as a new RM6700, Matt has chosen a multiple machines together. Workman HDX-D utility vehicle with a Multi Pro 200 Matt Gill, who has been at the club since 1989 and sprayer and Pro Pass 200 top dresser, about which course manager for the last 13 years, says: “We’re Matt says: “Since the multi-tasking Workman and top investing in the future of the club and Toro is very dresser arrived we’ve made great savings in the time much a part of that. We’re focusing on making sure spent applying sand and incurring much less the course can stay open for play all year round. disruption as we do it. “In this deal we’re replacing our existing “We've heavily invested in the fairways in the last Reelmaster 6700, a machine that has performed two years due to the drought and it’s important we consistently and constantly for 11 years, ensuring safeguard that investment.” we’re always ready for play by 9.30am. I wanted the www.reesinkturfcare.co.uk
Sherriff finds the ‘ideal tonic’ for Tiverton GC George Stephens, the course manager at Tiverton Golf began with an overhaul of the existing maintenance Club in Devon claims Sherriff Amenity has provided programme and products. him with the ideal tonic to help the greens combat “I set out to trial a number of different products to stress and aid root development. try and identify which products would be the best for With panoramic views of the Devon countryside, this site within our budget. I started with fertiliser trials Tiverton Golf Club offers a stunning 18 hole course on the fairways and there was one product which first established in 1932. It was originally designed by really stood out and that was Sherriff Amenity’s famous course architect James Braid whose other Evolution Controlled 18.0.32.” designs include Gleneagles, Carnoustie and St Evolution Controlled is a fertiliser range consisting Enodoc. of nutrients packaged in a coated granule released “When I first came in for my interview it was clear over an extended period of time. It's a controlled that they wanted change,” he said. “Improvement was release autumn and winter fertiliser specially vital and they wanted the club to be the Augusta of formulated with high potassium for turf hardness the West.” ensuring a rapid growth response, even at low Instead of feeling the pressure, George was temperatures. determined to set out and make his mark and he www.sherriffamenity.com
10 January 2020 www. .co.uk Outstanding performance. Whatever the task.
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www. .co.uk January 2020 11 Pellenc launch latest battery technology Extra thin, compact and lightweight, the Pellenc ULiB longer an issue. 750 battery revises all ergonomic standards with an Technical specifications: unequalled power to weight ratio. • Capacity is 745 Wh for 16.5 Ah Developed to work with all Pellenc battery tools in • Outstanding power / weight ratio of 166.67 Wh the range, the ULiB 750 has a sleek and compact per kg design, weighing less than 4.5kg, making this • Compatible with all Pellenc battery tools backpack battery the ideal power source for tree • Autonomy from 2h30 to 1.5 working days surgeons as well as grounds maintenance depending on tool used professionals. • Can be used in all weathers thanks to an IP54 It has a full LCD display on the front of the battery sealing level which allows the operator to see power consumed, • Visible at night or in difficult weather conditions cost of fuel saved in terms of petrol, the tools that thanks to its 4 reflectors and its flashing screen have been used and a battery life indicator. All Pellenc batteries and tools come with a three- The new battery is also IP54 water-proof rated, year commercial warranty as standard – the first meaning that the worry some users have of working manufacturer to offer this on battery-powered tools. in the rain with a battery-powered product is no www.pellencuk.com
Support for golf clubs in sustainability and climate action As sustainability and climate action become clubs now joining every day to unlock the many increasingly important to all types of businesses, business benefits of sustainability and to play their including golf clubs and courses, GEO Foundation part. continues to add new benefits and services to As described by one club recently, “OnCourse the OnCourse programme. provides a vision of how golf clubs can and should Through continual dialogue with golf club and be in the 21st Century – as clubs that act as course managers and golf associations, and as part stewards for the land, use resources responsibly of the mission to keep adding value to the growing and are integrated as part of their communities.” – number of people OnCourse, new features include: Bob Roberts, Market Harborough Golf Club. • Annual Sustainability Scorecard Clubs around the world have already shared • OnCourse Carbon Calculator hundreds of examples of this type of action, their • Communications materials projects and results, provided as an always growing • Consultations library of ideas in OnCourse and also helping to Now in eleven languages, the programme is strengthen the reputation of golf and the value it proving to be a valuable resource for clubs and brings to nature and people. courses of all sizes around the world, with more www.getoncourse.golf
The Saints benefit from new TYM tractors After taking on the maintenance of an additional TYM Tractor to help take on the task.” stadium, Southampton Football Club is continuing The new T503 joins three other T503 mid-duty its 16-year relationship with TYM Tractors and has tractors which have recently been replaced like-for- invested in a new T503 tractor to help with the extra like, and added three new T293 compact utility workload. tractors, says Andy: A new partnership between Southampton “Over the past three years we’ve been updating Football Club and AFC Totton has seen the Saints’ our fleet and most recently added a T503 for the women’s team play their home games and train at Testwood Stadium, which brings our fleet of TYM AFC Totton’s Testwood Stadium this year, and as a tractors up to seven. result Southampton FC’s grounds team has taken “The T503 is easy to use and as we know from on the site’s maintenance. experience, reliable, and the T293 is great because Andy Gray, Southampton FC’s grounds manager, of its compact size – we use it for the smaller daily explains: “Taking over maintenance of the new jobs to reduce the stress on the turf. We’ve stadium, alongside our own St Mary’s Stadium and definitely seen a big improvement to the grounds Staplewood training ground is certainly a because of that.” challenge, which is why we’ve invested in a new www.reesinkturfcare.co.uk
12 January 2020 www. .co.uk H-Cote Mini® solves leaching at AFC Bournemouth To reduce nutrient leaching on their sand-based surfaces, AFC Bournemouth’s Head of Grounds Ian Lucas has switched to Headland Amenity’s H-Cote Mini™ fertiliser and is delighted with the longevity and improvement in plant health achieved. This new controlled-release formulation is the latest addition to the club’s nutritional programme which, for the first time over the 2018/19 season, was fungicide free. “When I joined AFC Bournemouth two years ago, I inherited a feeding regime which included a variety of products, so I reviewed everything to see what was working and try to streamline the programme” explains Ian, who heads up a grounds team of seven. levels (70-91%) of controlled-release nitrogen from welcomed the opportunity to introduce it across both “One of the first things I looked at was the Poly sulphur coated urea. This provides release our King’s Park training ground and the Vitality conventional fertiliser being applied on the training characteristics that are gentle and sustained, with Stadium pitch. This winter, Alex suggested ground and academy pitches. Due to these being minimal risk of flushing or excessive growth. “We incorporating Mantle® manganese/zinc formulation sand-based, it wasn’t delivering the field longevity first applied H-Cote™ in September and so far, we into the mix to further suppress the ability of disease we needed, leading to multiple, costly applications have been impressed with the strong, healthy colour to take hold and this seems to have made a per season. I spoke to Headland Amenity’s Sports Turf and more consistent growth that definitely seems to significant difference. We managed to get through Specialist Alex Hawkes to try and find something last for longer.” what was a difficult period for sports turf weather- longer-lasting, and he recommended we try H- Alex has also worked on fine-tuning some of the wise, without the need to spray any fungicides which Cote™.” other tried and tested elements of Ian’s programme, not only saves us money but, as a ground team, feels The new H-Cote™ range fills the gap between including Headland’s 20/20/30 enhanced plant like we’ve made a massive step in the right traditional outfield and fine turf products and offers 3 health strategy. “I’ve long known about the direction.” to 4 month longevity due to the inclusion of high effectiveness of the 20/20/30 approach and www.headlandamenity.com
www. .co.uk January 2020 13 extra Osca justifies pitch investment Once Warwick School had decided to invest in a new synthetic pitch, Grounds Manager Duncan Toon felt that the SISIS Osca 3 tractor-mounted oscillating brush was the only machine that could maintain the new surface effectively and truly justify the major investment decision.
Sport plays a significant role for the powered oscillating brush with a 1.9 pupils that attend Warwick School and meter working width and is equally its teams excel in a number of sports effective when used on synthetic turf including cricket, rugby and hockey. with sand or rubber infill. The two However, while the school’s sports oscillating brushes stand up the carpet “Thousands of pupils play on this pitch teams are making the headlines on the fibres and redistributes the infill, so maintaining it effectively is important“ pitch, it is Duncan and his newly minimising compaction on the surface assembled team of six grounds staff and improving its performance – giving for player safety but you can’t forget that make it all possible. consistent playing characteristics while Duncan, who has been in the role for preventing pile damage caused by about the presentation either. nine months, was tasked by Warwick reduced infill levels. Independent Schools Foundation, A contributory factor to the reduction which includes Warwick School, of compaction is that the Osca’s Warwick Junior School, King’s High working width will use fewer passes For a school that thrives on sport, the simply on a different level. Since we School and Warwick Preparatory School, than other more conventional drag synthetic surfaces at Warwick incur a lot have been using it the pitch has to significantly improve the sports brushes to complete a pitch. Its of usage which means that regular significantly improved. surfaces used by all its schools. aggressive brushing action agitates the maintenance is of the utmost “The Osca’s oscillating brushes are “I was actually looking online and I upper infill level of the surface from importance – as Duncan explains. the best feature and are very unique. came across some videos of the SISIS side to side as well as brushing forward, “Over the course of a year, the pitch Not only do they get rid of any Osca in action and after much research I helping reduce surface compaction and averages four hours of play every day compaction problems but they also felt that it was the one machine which encourage the fibres to stand up and we use the Osca on a fortnightly provide a fantastic finish. Thousands of massively stood out and the one which straight which reduces the risk of basis. It is a great machine and when pupils play on this pitch so maintaining I believed would make the biggest contamination, drainage problems and you run your fingers through the pitch it effectively is important for player difference to us.” leaves a consistent playing surface after you have used the Osca, it is clear safety but you can’t forget about the The SISIS Osca is a tractor-mounted across the whole pitch. to see that the de-compaction it offers is presentation either. ”
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> BOOK A TEST DRIVE NOW AT: jacobsenbuilt.com www. .co.uk neil harvey
It’s heavenly Hurlingham
Close to the Thames in fabulous Fulham you'll find a magical green oasis set across 42 acres of magnificent grounds.
This is home to one of the most famous lake, plus all the wildfowl, even the private clubs on the planet carrying an peacocks that wander the grounds. Also impressive history and facilities to 22 synthetic tennis courts, 30 grass match. It's also where a certain Neil courts, cricket square, 10 croquet lawns, Harvey plies his trade as one of the two bowling greens, 9 hole par three finest grounds managers in the country. golf course, so plenty of variety. “I came to the Hurlingham Club as “I work a basic 39 hour week but like Deputy Grounds Manager, a new most people in our industry I do the position at the time working under Peter extra hours at the busiest times when Craig who was restructuring the needed to get things done. I live on site grounds department at the Club. I was which makes the weekends and late Grounds Manager at Radley College at finishes a lot easier, which helps a lot.” the time but missed living in London. I When it comes to equipment Neil knew of Peter’s reputation and also of admits to being extremely fortunate – in The Hurlingham Club so was fact the list at Hurlingham is like a immediately interested in the position. whose-who of state of the art “We have 23 full time members of technology. Nothing but the best is key the grounds team and we take on four in this prestigious place. John Deere seasonal staff each year from March certainly leads the way, and his high until November. The team is made up of profile armoury also includes in its eight gardeners plus our apprentice highlights Wiedenmann and Toro gardener Greg, 11 groundsmen plus equipment, various tractors, a Turfco two grounds attendants and myself. As a pedestrian top dresser, several top rotary boss I like to be open and approachable. mowers, strimmers and blowers, chain
Communication is very important, “I live on site which makes and pole saws, sprayers and rollers. particularly with my head gardener and Neil has a 10-year plan allowing him supervisors and particularly my deputy the weekends “ and late to flag up any particularly expensive Tom Clarke. finishes a lot easier which purchases to his Estates Executive well “I am responsible for all 42 acres of ahead of time. He will also prepare a grounds and gardens at the Club, from helps a lot. yearly report/wish-list and has been very the beautiful flower beds and formal well supported in this regard. lawn areas, to the 841 trees on site , the Obviously working at somewhere like
16 January 2020 www. .co.uk Like“ a lot of my fellow professionals I do have concerns for our industry at the moment, particularly about staff; namely how do we attract more
school/college leavers into the industry
and retain them as too many people leave the industry because of poor “ wages, lack of training and the anti- social hours that go with the job.
The Hurlingham Club does come with and retain them as too many people plenty of pressure and certain leave the industry because of poor challenges, but Neil agrees it's the same wages, lack of training and the anti- for every grounds manager. social hours that go with the job. These “I think it is something that over my subjects, amongst others, were top of career I have learnt to deal with and I the agenda at the recent Turf Business actually enjoy the challenge of a very Summit I attended in Portugal, and I busy summer like the one we have just hope real moves are now starting to be had. I think everyone needs those made to address a very difficult challenges otherwise you become stale problem.” and bored. The Hurlingham Club is committed “Holidays need to be planned around to improving sustainability throughout the busiest periods and it’s important the clubhouse and grounds and also that we all take those breaks when we within the local area. Their vision is to are able. When I am off I tend to spend maintain and enhance the excellence of time with the family, and try to watch this beautiful location for today and some live sport or listen to music. On a tomorrow – people need to work daily level getting out and walking Alan together to ensure there continues to be our dog is a good way to relax.” a bright tomorrow. Neil has just Given all of that I wondered what the commissioned a tree survey which will best thing about Neil's job was? “Oh form a key part of the Club’s tree that's easy” he said. “Walking out the strategy helping ensure another 150 door in the morning to go and do a job I years of the beautiful landscape at love. So many people wake up in the Hurlingham. morning and dread going to work, I am He's pleasantly laid back, obviously lucky that I have done something I enjoying life and very much part of the enjoy for the past 37 years. furniture at the Hurlingham Club. As for “Like a lot of my fellow professionals I the future? “Hopefully the future is very do have concerns for our industry at the good, but not without plenty of moment, particularly about staff; challenges to adapt to, but the modern namely how do we attract more groundsman and greenkeeper is very Neil is responsible for the lake, plus all the wildfowl, even the peacocks school/college leavers into the industry good at that I think, we have to be.” that wander the grounds.
www. .co.uk January 2020 17 Sponsored by:
The UK has some of the finest grounds-people on the planet practising the art of turf management to the highest standards. This also means of course, there's some pretty impressive individuals working in a range of different environments from football stadia to stately homes, schools to private clubs, parks to colleges and so on. Many inspire, encourage and rive on those around them – in fact, just one glance at the Top Turf Influencers will tell you all you need to know. Before revealing this years winners we offer huge thanks to our sponsors in the form of Agronomic Services Ltd. Managing Director David Snowden says: “It's wonderful to be able to reward those people who inspire, create standards of excellence, further educate or just give back to the people around them. It's a true delight working with Turf Business to reward these wonderful people.”
Top 20 mentions
20th 19th 18th 17th
John Coleman, MTD Jason Booth,IOG Neil Stubley, AELT&CC Lee Jackson, Manchester City
16th 15th 14th 13th
Dave Roberts, Liverpool FC Scott Brooks, St George’s Park Geoff Webb, IOG Richard Campey
12th 11th 10th 9th
Danny Negus, Devonshire Park Karl McDermott, MCC Karl Standley, Wembley Stadium Scott Tingley, Watford FC
8th 7th 6th 5th
Roy Rigby, Manchester City Gary Barwell, Warwickshire CCC Wayne Billing, Tottenham Hotspur James Bledge, Cinque Ports GC
18 January 2020 www. .co.uk
Well done to our most influential runners up
Paul Burgess, Director of Grounds and the Environment, Real Madrid FC There's little doubt Paul Burgess, Director of Grounds and the Environment at Real Madrid FC, is one of the leading lights in the industry. No stranger to winning the Top Influencer of the Year title, Paul is still highly thought of for his work and turfcare efforts at the world-famous venue in Spain. As the Turf Business Summit Founding Patron and host, he also did a fantastic job hosting our first overseas Summit at the Bernabeau Stadium and Training Grounds in Real Madrid. It seems a long way from being apprentice groundsman at Blackpool to star 'Galáctico' at one of the most 4th famous football clubs on the planet. He's won several awards in a glittering career.
Darren Baldwin, Head of Playing Surfaces and Estates, Tottenham Hotspur FC Darren Baldwin admits he owes a lot to Steve Braddock who helped him so much at Arsenal – and of course he was one of the less controversial transfers across the North London divide. Now overseeing Tottenham's magnificent stadium Darren has more than 30 years experience in the industry - he played a pivotal role in the planning of the new stadium and training facilities, of course, Darren is quite happy to help those around him whenever he can always living for the day. Always looking ahead, this visionary of the industry has won several accolades over the years including the IOG Groundsman of the Year Award. He says he's fortunate to work for a board who puts the playing surfaces first. 3rd
John Ledwidge – Grounds Manager, Leicester City FC There's nothing quite like consistency, and John Ledwidge has that in abundance – having been named runner up for the second year running in our Top Turf Influencer Awards. It seems they can do little wrong in the East Midlands at present as John continues to be actively involved in the ongoing development and investment in world class sports turf surfaces for the club. Managing a team of 14 he's been at The King Power since July 2016, kept busy managing 24 acres, nine natural and re- enforced football pitches. His efforts contributed to the renowned success story of Premier League Champions Leicester City FC, but he was also there to support 2nd his team during the club’s devastating 2018 helicopter tragedy.
www. .co.uk January 2020 19
Deserved winner of the 2019 Top Influencer Award
1st
Steve Braddock, Grounds Manager, Arsenal FC
20 January 2020 www. .co.uk
It seems fitting the 2019 Top Turf Influencer Award should go to Steve Braddock, perhaps the industry's most respected grounds professional of his generation. Steve began his working life as assistant groundsman at the Royal Veterinary College – but a chance meeting with former Arsenal manager George Graham opened up the opportunity of a dream job overseeing the pitch at Highbury in the 1980's. Richard Campey says: “Steve was self taught and very much his own man. When he got the job at Highbury the first thing he did was put sand in a watering can, and then fill every hole on the pitch manually. He would rarely take advice but work things out himself. He was also responsible for passing on his knowledge and training people who then went on to land some top jobs. He's always had impeccable standards, and there's no doubt he's the daddy of all groundsmen. In short – a brilliant man whose been an inspiration across the industry.” Steve is also a a brilliant people manager even leading the way in mental health matters – he's been feted by former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, and a whole host of other top managers. In fact, he was even quietly responsible for relaxing a young Ray Parlour before he took his driving test. Driving a tractor up and down Highbury was all it took. There's little doubt the greatest tribute to Steve Braddock has been paid by the enigmatic Paul Burgess at Real Madrid – Steve was his mentor of course, and it's a relationship still going strong Getting to grips with the Highbury pitch. today. He said: “Steve Braddock was actually my inspiration for getting into the industry, as a 14 year old footy mad kid I read an article on him in a football magazine; this was my motivation to pursue a career as a football groundsman. At the age of 18 I had the surreal experience of being interviewed by the man himself, an interview which led to me being his assistant at Highbury, we where just two people back then as we had no training ground to maintain. He would have me working crazy long hours, his attention to detail was amazing and his ability to foresee problems before they occurred was amazing – like a sixth sense. As well as the well documented traits, his real success was how he renovated pitches – he was basically koroing off pitches before the Koro was built! This would be a process which took weeks rather than hours like now, using machines designed for different purposes, adapting them, a lot of the time abusing them, taking them well beyond their design limitations. All the head groundsman would be on the beach following a light scarify and seeding, not Steve – we would be five in the morning to ten at night, seven days a week for a month – proper full on. We would dig up the goal areas trying to find a really stable soil mix, working with the rootzone, like a cricket groundsman. We would then vertidrain and painstakingly fill the holes up with kiln dried sand in a watering can, the rest of the pitch we would fill up every hole with kiln dried sand and sweeping brushes. By week three I would be cursing him thinking why couldn’t I work at another club and be on holiday. The reason the pitch was miles ahead of other pitches back then wasn’t about budgets, it was complete and utter dedication, pioneering ideas and constantly thinking out of the box. As a boss he was amazing, more like my Dad than a boss. He gave me without doubt the best education I could have wished for, and gave me an unbelievable platform to shape my career the way I have. I like to think all the values he gave me I have taken on, and taken things to the next level. Steve is a guy I can call when I have a doubt or a problem, a true friend, loyal, dedicated, driven, forward-thinking, passionate and way ahead of his time. Steve will go down as the best football groundsman of his generation and a man that has had a big say in the next generation, respected by everyone, feared by some, loved by many. The word ‘legend’ is used far too often but without doubt this is a man that really is a true legend of the turf industry, groundsmanship and professional football. I’m forever grateful and he is my inspiration to do what I do.” As for life at The Arsenal training facilities Steve told the Official Arsenal website: “We have created the right kind of culture here, nurturing some top-quality pitches and, along with them, some world-class groundsmen. Their progress sets an example for all of our groundstaff to follow. On a typical day at the training ground, I’ll have a walk around the pitches at 6.45am to see how things are looking. My deputies and I then go through our tasks for the day, and the rest of the staff begin at 8am. Everyone mucks in – I’m a firm believer that you should never give one of your staff a task that you wouldn’t undertake yourself. My best memory was probably winning Groundsman of the Year and having a presentation on the pitch when the club gave me the cannon."
It's certain there won't be a single person working in or associated with this great industry who won't be thrilled for our winner. Steve Braddock – we Sharing his considerable knowledge with others. salute you and all you stand for.
www. .co.uk January 2020 21
Bigger and better than ever How can you better the prestigious venues already used for both the 2018 and 2019 Turf Business Summits?
As if Real Madrid’s Bernebau Stadium the opportunity for some very More than a football club motto "Més que un club" or "More and training facility, and the superb important networking. Throw in a bit Founded in 1899 by a group of Swiss, than a club". resort of Quinto do Lago in Portugal of sun and a magical atmosphere will Spanish, English, and Catalan Barcelona FC is one of the most weren't enough – how about a taste of soon follow. So what about the footballers led by Joan Gamper, the widely supported teams in the world, charismatic Catalonia, taking in both attractions of offer? Well let's start at club has become a symbol of Catalan and the club has one of the largest Barcelona’s Nou Camp stadium and Barcelona FC. culture and Catalanism, hence the social media followings in the world Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper training among sports teams. facility plus the world class golfing The Turf Business Summit 2020 haven otherwise known as PGA will be in part staged at the iconic Catalunya, in the space of two days? Camp Nou stadium and – as well as Well that's exactly what we can look an exclusive behind the scenes forward to in 2020, as the summit access – we will also have a rare continues to build on previous opportunity to see FC Barcelona’s successes. The talking points and the training facilities Ciutat Esportiva problems of the industry continue to Joan Gamper be highlighted – in fact vital ongoing Just as a taster, at their training projects have emerged from those complex there are five natural grass previous groups bringing movers and pitches, four fieldturf pitches, three shakers within the business together gyms, a couple of first class press in perfect harmony. Engaging the areas, a dressing room building, great and the good of the Turf multi-sport pavilions, a grandstand, Business world is really what it's all specialist training areas and so much about. more in this amazing place. And, of In Portugal 2019, the spectacle of course, plenty of room for a Turf seeing so many talented professionals Business meeting of minds. mixing, meeting and exchanging Head grounds Manager Octavi ideas made for an awe inspiring Creus Nolla told us: “For FCB and for experience. But in utilising two me it will be a pleasure and a incredible venues, there will be plenty challenge to welcome you to our of time for new friendships to be Joint hosts for the 2020 Summit – Head Grounds Manager at the Nou home. We look forward to seeing forged and, of course, the social side is Camp, Octavi Creus Nolla, and David Bataller, Director of Agronomy at PGA delegates and sponsors with our so important. In fact, it also offers up PGA Catalunya Resort. facilities and the turf on point.”
22 January 2020 www. .co.uk “PGA Catalunya Resort is very excited to host the Turf Business leaders meeting in
2020 and we will be delighted to show our
famous lifestyle resort in Europe, many sustainable practices“ and multifunctional use areas, as well as the world class Stadium Course.
considerable style and comfortable Looking forward elegance. There's little doubt the 2020 Turf “PGA Catalunya Resort is very Business Summit taking in Barcelona excited to host the Turf Business and PGA Catalunya is one of the leaders meeting in 2020 and we will highlights of the year, growing the be delighted to show our famous seeds of turfcare talent – so watch this lifestyle resort in Europe, many space, as we aim to continue pushing sustainable practices and the bar upwards. multifunctional use areas, as well as It's all about the wonderful people the world class Stadium Course, the who work in this exciting industry, day first class Girona FC´s training in – day out. You really couldn't wish facilities, the rest of the facilities and for any more in terms of world class all at a walking distance from the two venues. The great thing is of course, it Pure heaven in Catalonia Europe and number 1 in Spain. hotels onsite,” said Director of also brings out the very best in the Located less than an hour from the As the venue for numerous PGA Agronomy David Bataller. delegates. vibrant and historic metropolis of European Tour events, it is also Barcelona, 20 minutes from the routinely singled out for praise from beaches of the Costa Brava and just the professional playing fraternity. In 15 minutes from the historic town of fact, The Stadium Golf Course has Girona, PGA Catalunya Resort such a spectacular and imposing continues to exceed expectations as beauty, and of course this is just one one of the world’s leading real estate of several taking in all the fabulous developments and fully-serviced facilities available. lifestyle resorts. The acquisition of PGA Catalunya One of the great courses – the Resort by Irish entrepreneur Denis spectacular and imposing Stadium O’Brien – the successful proprietor Course – has been consistently of the equally acclaimed Quinta do ranked among the ten best golf Lago in Portugal – has seen courses in Europe since it was significant investment injected into opened in 1999 and was recently the estate, culminating in a distinctly voted number 4 in continental upmarket property development of
www. .co.uk January 2020 23 factory visit
A Tirolean centre of excellence
In December, Turf Business was invited to visit the STIHL Tirol factory in the scenic Austrian town of Kufstein to see first hand its new groundscare tools coming to market in 2020, as well as a tour of the manufacturing facility.
The STIHL Tirol site was originally complete manufacturing process and Smart technology connect pro portal. When used in founded as VIKING in 1981 and has assembly line of a wide range of STIHL STIHL Connected gives professional conjunction, STIHL Connected enables been a wholly owned subsidiary of the products, but we were also shown, and users a detailed overview of key power professional users to easily analyse key STIHL Group since 1992. As of 2019, all able to test, some of the new tool data via a portal in order to machinery performance data that can of the formerly green VIKING products groundscare tools STIHL will be enhance maintenance programmes be used to not only improve daily work migrated over to the STIHL brand, with launching in 2020. This included hand- and fleet management efficiencies. processes, but also help achieve the Tirol site now manufacturing not held power tools, cordless mowers, STIHL Connected comprises of three optimum task scheduling. only STIHL battery powered and electric cordless blowers, backpack batteries, central system components - STIHL This Smart Connector is easy to products, but also lawn mowers, robotic and chainsaws to name but a few. Smart Connector, STIHL app, and STIHL install and transmits the most mowers, ride-on mowers, garden important power tool data via shredders, tillers and scarifiers. Bluetooth to a smartphone or tablet, Currently, more than 600 employees The AR 2000 L and giving users universal transparency manufacture the innovative products AR 3000 L (left) have a about where power tools are being across 23 assembly lines. higher power capacity operated and their current status. A substantial investment has been compared to STIHL’s With the STIHL app, professional made to develop the STIHL Tirol site previous backpack users are given a detailed overview of over the years, with the latest building batteries. their power tool run time, as well as extension (the largest to date) opening being able to schedule and document in February 2019, which provided an work tasks. additional 20,000 m2 of floor space. The The STIHL connect pro portal enables new space features a 3,000 m2 green the digital management of an entire rooftop that it used as a test area for machinery fleet, meaning users can STIHL’s robotic mowers, as well as a add or remove power tools, schedule state-of-the-art small parts warehouse work to best effect and view pending where 17 robots store and stack 47,000 maintenance appointments. containers. In addition, the latest extension features 25 test cabins that Battery power have been created for equipment STIHL has launched an enhanced testing, which can be carried out 24 version of its AR backpack battery hours a day. delivering more power for landscaping The visit to the STIHL Tirol site not and grounds-care professionals using only allowed us to see up close the PRO cordless tools.
24 January 2020 www. .co.uk fleet management system. When required when operating the tool and connected with the STIHL Cloud, users its use is unrestricted even in noise- will be able to access the charge levels, sensitive areas, such as densely daily battery life, operating times and populated residential areas or in the “As of 2019, all of the formerly green location of the battery to review its vicinity of hospitals and retirement performance. homes. VIKING products migrated over to the STIHL has also succeeded in Cordless blowing reducing the gyroscopic forces of the STIHL brand, with the Tirol site now The new STIHL BGA 86 cordless blower machine thanks to the compact fan manufacturing not only STIHL battery allows convenient and low-noise unit featuring a highly efficient
cleaning of large areas. turbine. This feature, combined with powered and electric products, but also Replacing the popular BGA 85, the the blower’s centre of gravity near to new STIHL BGA 86 cordless blower has the handle, makes the BGA 86 lawn mowers,“ robotic mowers, ride-on a blowing force of 15 Newtons and is comfortable to use and allows the tool 50% more powerful, yet noticeably to be handled with little effort. mowers, garden shredders, tillers and lighter and quieter. Professional and domestic users Chainsaw perfection scarifiers. with larger gardens can benefit from Ideal for forestry and agricultural work, the STIHL BGA 86’s energy-saving, low- STIHL’s MSA 220 C-B is the most noise and emission-free performance. powerful cordless chainsaw in the Thanks to the moderate noise STIHL range. The AR 2000 L and AR 3000 L have a be changed quickly and easily over to emission, no hearing protection is Designed with a high chain speed, higher power capacity compared to the carrying harness, to minimise STIHL’s previous backpack batteries, downtime. The new STIHL BGA 86 cordless blower helping to deliver longer running Like other batteries in STIHL’s range, has a blowing force of 15 Newtons times – particularly when used with the the AR 2000 L and 3000 L can be used and is 50% more powerful. BGA and FSA models – for full-day work in the rain thanks to its integrated assignments. When used with the new humidity cell protection. professional cordless lawn mower, the Additionally, the new AR 2000 L and RMA 765 V, it delivers a higher power AR 3000 L backpack batteries can be output. Additionally, the new integrated to the user’s smartphone or connecting cord means batteries can tablet with STIHL connect pro, STIHL’s
www. .co.uk January 2020 25 factory visit
“The new space features
a 3,000 m2 green rooftop that it used “ as a test area for STIHL’s robotic mowers.
the powerful MSA 220 C-B makes with all other tools within the STIHL quick work of any task and guarantees PRO Cordless system. consistently high-quality cutting The RM 655 RS rear roller mower is performance, regardless of the battery Magnificent mowing ideal for professional landscapers. charge level. The PRO cordless STIHL has expanded its range of high- chainsaw is ideally suited for felling, performance mowers with the thinning work, construction and wood introduction of the RM 655 RS rear carving. roller mower, ideal for professional The MSA 220 C-B comes as standard landscapers. with the STIHL exclusive 3/8" Picco The mower from STIHL includes a Super 3 (PS3) full chisel saw chain with single speed, split, driven rear metal a guide bar length of 35cm/14”. This roller for a great quality striping effect, chain has a high cutting performance as well as making manoeuvring and a low kick-back. around borders easier. The rear roller As part of STIHL’s PRO cordless features high quality bearings and range, the MSA 220 C-B is powered by stainless steel build for longevity. a 36 V Lithium-Ion battery. The new AP The mono-comfort handlebar, with 300 S battery is recommended to super soft grip, is adjustable to three ensure the best possible cutting different heights allowing users to find performance, and is also compatible the most suitable setting and to access
the grass catcher box more easily. loaded lever on the left-hand side of Designed with ease of use in mind, the housing, whilst the Blade Brake the powerful Briggs and Stratton Clutch stops the blade when the engine is simple to start thanks to the mower is stationary, meaning users auto-choke mechanism, meaning the can empty the grass catcher box whilst recoil starter rope only needs to be leaving the engine running, or move pulled once. the mower from area to area without Offering full flexibility, the desired the blade running, but utilising the cutting height can be precisely single speed drive. The MSA 220 C-B is the most powerful cordless chainsaw in the STIHL range. adjusted thanks to a single, sprung- www.www.stihl.co.uk
26 January 2020 www. .co.uk dealership
John Deere dealer Sherriff acquires Greenlay John Deere agricultural and transferred to the renamed Sherriff north-east of England and the Durham Cumbrian border. It ensures that we turf dealer Thomas Sherriff & Cramlington business, with outlet area. can maintain the highest level of manager Eric Pattinson continuing to “Most importantly, this means that support to our customers in both the Co Ltd, whose headquarters lead the dealership’s experienced we will now b serving our total John important business sectors of are based at Haddington in sales, service and parts team. Deere area of еresponsibility with both agricultural and professional turf East Lothian, has bought the “Originally founded by David Lowes agricultural and turf equipment, from equipment sales and service.” and his wife Judith in 1972 before the Forth to Teesside and out to the www.deere.co.uk professional turf business of becoming John Deere Limited’s first Greenlay Ltd in Cramlington, professional groundscare dealer in south Northumberland. 1986, Greenlay is well-established, successful family business,”а said John This development extends the Deere Limited division sales manager dealership’s trading area and takes to Chris Meacock. “We would like to thank seven the total number of Sherriff the Lowes family and especially Geoff outlets serving customers from the Lowes for their commitment to John River Forth in Scotland, down through Deere over the past 33 years – it’s great the Borders to Durham in north-east to see this positive outcome for his England and reaching out west to the team.” Cumbrian border. Sherriff managing director Colin Sherriff’s head office site at Weatherhead added: “This is key Backburn in Haddington, which addition to our business and аgreat replaced the previous facility in Dunbar fit for our organisation. Followingа the at the beginning of 2017, brought development of our head office at both the dealership’s agricultural and Haddington as part of our overall turf divisions under the same roof for expansion and restructuring plans, the first time. The other Sherriff outlets this latest acquisition represents are based at Alnwick, Coldstream, another considerable investment in Thomas Sherriff & Co Ltd managing director Colin Weatherhead (far right) Hexham, Jedburgh and Stow. our business, allowing us to expand with Sherriff Cramlington outlet manager Eric Pattinson (far left) and some All 17 Greenlay employees have our geographical presence in the of the team at the dealership’s Northumberland premises. Ernest Doe & Sons expands its East Anglian presence Ernest Doe & Sons Ltd recently during more than 120 years trading. customers and are looking forward to significantly both in visitor numbers purchased the business of The firm supplies a huge amount of fresh challenges as we enter this and content and is now a firm fixture in machinery; from garden mowers and exciting new phase of our business.” the calendar, in the first full week of Bartram Mowers. chain saws to combine harvesters and 2020 marks the Doe Show Diamond February every year. Mark Bartram approached Ernest Doe construction excavators. Their Anniversary. Launched in 1960, the As well as featuring agricultural, to buy the Bartram Mowers business philosophy is simple: To supply the best very first Doe Show was held at their construction and groundcare following notification Ransomes products and then to support them with Braintree branch. The main feature was machinery, working demonstrations Jacobsen were expanding Ernest Doe’s the service facilities and expertise to Grain Handling and Storage equipment and plenty of excellent bargains in the territory for their franchise to keep them running perfectly. and it proved to be a great success. used equipment sections, a new incorporate Suffolk and Norfolk. They also supply machinery and Over the years the Doe Show has feature for 2020 is the Tech and Ernest Doe’s Managing Director, services to the agricultural, construction gone from strength to strength, Innovation Hub showcasing the latest Colin Doe, said: “The Bartram Mowers and professional grass machinery attracting thousands of visitors, year technology available in the market. business is a good fit for Ernest Doe. We markets representing major after year. The show has grown www.ernestdoe.com have three branches in Norfolk and manufacturers such as New Holland, three in Suffolk from which to support Hyundai and Textron. In fact, Ernest Doe customers in the area. The Bartram are the UK’s largest agricultural, Ipswich depot has moved to our construction and groundcare Framlingham branch today, but we will machinery dealership. trade from Bartram’s Norwich site for As part of the deal, Ernest Doe has three months before moving it to our also acquired Bartram’s established North Walsham branch.” lawnmowersdirect e-commerce Ernest Doe is a long established platform. family business with a network of Colin Doe commented further: “With branches in the South and East of our network of established branches in England. Current Managing Director Norfolk and Suffolk, we are focussed on Colin Doe is the fourth generation of building on the high level of service the family to have taken the helm Bartram have provided to their
www. .co.uk January 2020 27 robotic mowers
Husqvarna raises the stakes
The Swedish global market leader in outdoor solutions has introduced three innovative new products to the robotic mower market. “One of the best things is how the micro-clip fertilise the grass. The quality of the grass ha improved massively in a very short space of
Husqvarna launches Automower® The kit ensures the lower cutting The use of robotic mowers on large Automower® as part of course fairway kit heights required on areas such as and labour intensive areas of grass maintenance. Steve Lloyd, Husqvarna,has introduced a new fairways can be achieved using a requiring regular maintenance also CourseManager commented "It’s great robotic mower fairway kit designed to Husqvarna robotic mower. The allows the redeployment of grounds because it means we can keep a be used on golf fairways and other combination of Husqvarna staff on to more skilled tasks. The consistent cut throughout the week. It sports turf applications. Automower® and the new kit allows robotic mowers are designed to cut also saves us time on a large area, The new kit lowers the cutting height areas such as fairways to be maintained little and often, recycling the micro- allowing the team to focus on hard to of Husqvarna Automower® to a at a constant length throughout the clippings back into the soil improving reach and trickier areas. One of the best minimum of approximately 10mm year, creating consistency in the playing grass quality whilst maintaining a things is how the micro-clippings whilst also providing new cutting conditions experienced by golfers. The consistent grass length throughout the fertilise the grass. The quality of the height steps of 12.5mm, 15mm and ultra-silent mowers are also extremely growing season. grass has improved massively in a very 17.5mm. The standard cutting height unobtrusive, ensuring players are not Worcestershire Golf Club are short space of time". on all Husqvarna Automower® models disturbed and night time operation amongst a growing number of golf The kits are designed for the 420, excluding the AWD models is 20mm. isn't a problem. courses utilising Husqvarna 430X, 450X, 520 and 550 models.
28 January 2020 www. .co.uk “We are committed to continuously improving professional green space
management and Husqvarna EPOS is a
technological breakthrough in Husqvarna’s robotic mowing that will“ further accelerate the adaptation of robotics in professional lawn care.
Virtual boundary technology for innovation and solutions.
professional robotic mowing The new system will significantly
Husqvarna EPOS technology, is a increase the flexibility and use of satellite-based solution for a new series professional robotic mowers in green pings “ of professional Husqvarna Automower® spaces, as virtual boundaries can be robotic mowers, enabling mowing with adapted to meet the ever-changing as virtual boundaries. needs of sports fields and public The company has pioneered and spaces. This will further open up time. shaped the robotic mowing segment opportunities for areas which for 25 years with high performing, historically were challenging for robotic silent and direct emission-free robotic lawnmowers. For example areas mowers. These are designed to help passing hard surfaces or those which landscapers maintain healthy lawns are often remodeled as well as making Husqvarna's self operated reach, areas,” says AdamTengblad, and increase productivity. aerating and scarifying easier. mowing system Director of Autonomous Systems at In 2019, Husqvarna introduced its Sascha Menges, President Husqvarna presents Autonomous Husqvarna. first all-wheel drive robotic mowers, Husqvarna Division, commented: Operation for professionals in the Husqvarna Autonomous Operation allowing residential and professional “Robotics and autonomous solutions quest to increase productivity and uses the new Husqvarna EPOS users to cover areas with an incline of will play a major role in the future of safety while maintaining large green technology, a high-precision satellite up to 70% - an important further step green space management. We are spaces. The system consists of multiple navigation system providing enhanced into the professional segment. committed to continuously improving self-operated Husqvarna robotic real time positioning accuracy, Husqvarna is committed to continue to professional green space management mowers powered by Husqvarna EPOS delivering location accuracy of 2-3 lead and develop the robotic mowing and EPOS is a technological technology.Three pilots are being set centimeters. category through customer centric breakthrough in robotic mowing.” up this year to refine the system before an official launch in 2021. In Sweden, Husqvarna Autonomous Operation is currently being tested at Jönköping Airport and Örnsköldsvik Airport, and last fall Husqvarna expanded to include Swedavia Vehicle at Bromma Airport. The Husqvarna Autonomous Operation system will be operating in further pilot applications during 2020, and will be fully available as an end-to- end solution for selected markets by 2021. “Satellite technology opens up new possibilities for our industry giving us the opportunity to offer our customers new solutions. This end-to-end solution will further benefit our professional customers by increasing productivity, enabling safe and more efficient green space management in large, hard to
www. .co.uk January 2020 29 robotic mowers
Ryetech introduces exciting addition to the market The Robofox Electra fully electrically driven 900mm wide flail mower capable of cutting and electric remote controlled flail mulching material up to 2 cms in mower is here, with the power diameter, combined with a track drive and performance of an engine system and ultra-low centre of gravity driven machine but without all for bank mowing on angles of up to 55 degrees. the noise, fumes and An intuitive proportional remote environmental contamination. control allows the operator to work at a safe distance from the machine up to Thanks to an innovative battery and 150 metres, and the heavy duty battery drive system, and the complete pack give an autonomy of two-three absence of any hydraulic system, this hours work depending on conditions, innovative creation features a powerful and for longer duration the battery
pack can be exchanged for a fully system, which still eliminates any “An intuitive proportional remote control charged unit, re charge time is three- hydraulic systems and on board allows the operate“ to work at a safe four hours. It really is the perfect power batteries. This allows the machine to be package. driven without the engine running, distance from the machine up to 150 For operators working in areas ideal if driving past buildings, people where engine power is not a problem, and animals to the working area, or metres... the Robofox Hybrid is available. It has a should the engine run out of fuel, the 28hp petrol engine to drive the flail Robofox can be recovered from the head and fully electric track drive working area. The ride-on brushcutter with remote control functionality Do you want to mow where Equipped with 27hp, 4wd, limited- which offers all the benefits of the information about PSD’s range of AS even walking is difficult? The slip differential and cross blade, the AS standard AS 940 but with the option to Motor mowing and brushcutting 940 easily mows dense, high grass and convert to remote control when equipment or to arrange a remote control ride on mower undergrowth on terrain where other required. demonstration, visit the website: is the ideal solution. mowers would have been forced to Should you require any further www.psdgroundscare.co.uk give up. For more than 50 years, AS Motor have With ride-on brushcutters, steep been working continuously on new slopes can be mown conveniently and technologies and the consistent further economically. However, there are development of their extensive range always areas where mowing is very of mowers. unpleasant or unsafe for the operator, Mowing on steep and difficult including steep terrain, loose terrain has always been a challenge for substrate, mowing under trees and the machine operator and the AS 940 bushes, along hedges and even areas and AS 940 XL ride on brushcutter have around wasp nests. been especially developed for this However AS Motor have the demanding application. solution – the AS 940 Remote Control
The main remote-controlled functions include: • Professional remote control unit with 300m range • Adjustment of the cutting height • Engine on/off function • Mower deck on-off switch • Steering via remote control • Maximum incline transverse to the slope in remote control operation 33° (ride-on operation 21°) • Emergency stop of the machine
30 January 2020 www. .co.uk Academic delight for the Agria hybrid remote mower Agria UK’s remotely controlled the city known as Old Aberdeen. It lies allowing some of the most difficult and (48V). approximately two miles north of the awkward-to-reach terrain to be tackled In two widths, 112 cm and 80 cm, it agria 9600 hybrid bank mower city centre. To the west, there is the from a healthy distance. Should cuts and mulches in two directions and makes lots of friends in high more recent Foresterhill campus, next frequency be disturbed, the remote is effortless on a variety of applications, places. Recent converts include door to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary and control changes to a different band including fine turf. the 16 members of the home to the School of Medicine and frequency automatically. Wilson Morrison, Sales Manager Dentistry, as well as the School of A patented Hybrid drive concept from dealer Fairways GM, who University of Aberdeen’s Medical Sciences, and then to the east means the Agria 9600 combines a distribute Agria UK products in grounds’ team. is Hillhead campus which is petrol engine with being electrically Scotland, said: “Bruce and his team put predominantly student halls, with driven. This set up is therefore more H&S at the top of their list. The agria Bruce Reid, Grounds Officer in the gradients in the 30° to 50° range, all at environmentally friendly than 9600 gives them a head start. For University’s Estates and Facilities varying heights.” hydraulic systems. The petrol engine example, if for any reason the Department, said he knew instantly it With its low centre of gravity and powers the mower and generator, transmission signal between machine was a machine that suited their rubber caterpillar tracks, the Agria while the generator produces and operator is lost the machine purpose: “It works well for us because 9600, powers safely through heavy electricity in Safety Extra Low voltage automatically shuts down.” it’s not complicated; it's so H&S duty work on high slopes to 50°. The focused and does a thoroughly good operator uses a joy stick on a light, job. Tending steep banking both safely hand held LED display control panel to and quickly is imperative and that’s manage six key mower functions. The why the agria 9600 stood out.” display shows travel speed, cutting “We have our fair share of extreme height, hours of operation, the battery slopes and banked areas. There are charge status, the radio signal strength three distinct campuses. King's and an on/off switch. College campus, is more than 500 Range is an impressive 300 m at a years old, and dominates the section of generous forward speed of 10 km/ hr
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www. .co.uk January 2020 31 water management
Flying high with Rain Bird Jon White joined Hankley Common Golf Club as Course Manager in January 2017. A six-month irrigation system renovation had been agreed and the contractor Ocmis had been working on site for two months.
Designated a Site of Special Scientific station. A double row system with Rain head rotors on tees. to be accessed from anywhere allowing Interest, the 18-hole Hankley Common Bird 700 Series valve-in-head rotors Real time communication direct users to conduct rapid system health Golf Club and surrounding expanse of was installed on fairways with back-to- from PC to rotor makes the Rain Bird IC checks. The timeless compatibility of all native West Surrey heathland are back Rain Bird 751 Series rotors on System truly unique in the Rain Bird Golf irrigation solutions home to thousands of birch, rowan, greens and approaches and a marketplace. The mobile interface ensures its customers continue to Scotch pine and oak trees as well as combination of block and valve-in- enables the easy to use Central Control benefit from all advancements in adders, badgers, sand lizards and a delightfully-named rare bird, the Dartford Warbler. This is a dry, sandy, links-type course, with fine, free draining turf cut through swathes of heather. Opened in 1897 with 9 holes added by James Braid in 1922 and redesigned in 1936 by Harry Colt adding length and changing the routing of the short holes, Hankley Common was described as ‘one of the best inland layouts in Britain’ by Charles Lawrie; high praise from renowned golfer and architect of the Duke’s course at Woburn. Irrigation consultant Roger Davey of Irritech designed the new system to replace the ageing Watermation decoder system on greens, surrounds, tees and fairways. The irrigation design solution included a central pump station relying on existing borehole abstraction. The project involved upgrading to a Rain Bird IC System™ with Stratus II™ Central Control with mobile interface (MI) and weather
32 January 2020 www. .co.uk
“In some places it’s taken us two seasons experimenting with a wide range of nozzles and pressure combinations to “ ensure we are getting the most from the system and during this process Irritech has been very responsive, making multiple site visits after installation.
controls or hardware, vital with a 25 to Distribution uniformity proved The majority of Jon’s irrigation decision-making process to determine 40-year investment. Built to last, the challenging especially on some of our experience has been with Rain Bird’s when and how much we irrigate. unmatched quality of the equipment is smaller tees at elevation. As with any satellite and decoder systems of Ultimately, the more control you have evident from the many installations new system, it takes time out in the varying age and quality and he over a given area, the more consistent across the globe. These advantages field to get it dialled in. In some places acknowledges that with any system, turf quality will be. I’ve been really deliver an unrivalled lower total cost of it’s taken us two seasons the key is understanding its impressed with the advancements of system ownership for golf clubs of experimenting with a wide range of capabilities and limitations to ensure the Stratus II™ Central Control software every size and type. nozzles and pressure combinations to it’s being used effectively. and IC System, especially the MI and In overseeing the renovation, Jon ensure we are getting the most from “There’s no silver bullet. Weather real-time system health check brought his experience of irrigation at the system and during this process stations and moisture meters are the capabilities.” some of the best-rated courses, in Irritech has been very responsive, essential tools we use in our daily www.rainbird.eu France; as Superintendent at Golf de making multiple site visits after Morfontaine, Assistant Superintendent installation. The Rain Bird team has at Golf de Joyenval and Waverley Oaks also been excellent throughout, Golf Club in Massechusetts, USA, providing technical support to me and where he also completed a turfgrass my staff to make sure we continue management programme at Rutgers getting the most from our system.” University. Ocmis’ Sales Director Peter Dawson “There’s no silver bullet. Weather Hankley Common is set within a adds: “We had a very experienced stations and moisture meters are the unique 850-acre site. The course team of people working on this occupies 164 acres and remaining project; the same team that also essential tools we use in our daily heathland is leased to the MOD. installed the new system on the Ailsa Located on the Surrey sand belt, the Course at Turnberry. decision-making process to determine site is predominately open heathland “Attention to detail and careful with some areas very exposed to the planning enabled each golf hole to be when and how much we irrigate. elements. returned to Jon after a day or two in Jon explains, “It’s inevitable that full playing condition, with minimum Ultimately, the more control“ you have some minor, unforeseen issues will disruption to him and to the Club over a given area, the more consistent arise during the renovation process but members. Rain Bird equipment works adaptability and a high level of ‘out of the box’ and the reliability turf quality will be. workmanship from Ocmis ensured allows us to quickly move through the installation went very smoothly. installation “.
www. .co.uk January 2020 33 water management I-80 rotors impress at London Stadium
London Stadiun Head Groundsman James Williams has praised the simplicity and efficiency of the new Hunter
I-80 rotary sprinklers supplied by KAR UK. “In the click of a button you can change“ the speeds of the sprinklers, so for instance on a match-day we only need to put a little amount of water on but it needs to cover a lot of ground.
Originally built to host London 2012, available on the market and it wasn’t “It is just so simple - you can take off amount of coverage in a quick time. the Olympic Stadium, as it was long before a meeting with KAR UK the turf caps and grow them in in a “The ACC2 controller is also easy to formerly called, is now known as the was arranged. KAR is the UK’s leading shed or under a light and then you can use and that is what I wanted. I didn’t London Stadium and is home to West wholesaler of irrigation equipment, just put them straight back on. Even want it to be too technical because I Ham United FC – but that’s not all. The and after admitting he was hugely cleaning them is so much easier want all of my staff to be able to use it stadium also hosts UK athletics and impressed with everything the because you just whip them out like a as well as myself.” concerts and has been a venue for the company showed him, James’ normal sprinkler instead of having to James reported the manager and Rugby World Cup, The Race of attentions soon turned to a new Hunter dig them all out every time.” players are pleased with the new Champions, Major League Baseball Industries irrigation system including James had eight I-80 rotors installed system and he went further in and the RFL Four Nations. the most technologically advanced in the pitch and his system is further explaining how he uses it in the run up James, who started in the industry commercial rotor on the market - the complimented by the ACC2 controller to match-days. as an apprentice at Swansea FC, is now all-new I-80. which is ideal for delivering advanced “Obviously a lot of it is dependent the man responsible for overseeing the Engineered for sports turf, the I-80 is water management to meet the on weather, but we tend to give the maintenance of the pitch at arguably built with a robust, dirt-tolerant gear demands of large-scale commercial pitch around 8mm of water on a one of the most iconic stadia in the UK. drive offering the highest torque projects and the Roam remote - Thursday or a Friday to prepare the With a team of five, the young output of any rotor in the commercial eliminating the need to go back and surface for a game. We will then give it groundsman does a stellar job in sphere, and extends a radius range forth to the sprinkler controller. a top up before kick-off and then again keeping the pitch in immaculate from 11.3 to 29.6 meters. The I-80 “This new Hunter system is so at half-time if it is required. condition despite the heavy usage but, features a wide range of highly modern and advanced and the remote “I see it similar to the way you would ever the perfectionist, James is efficient, dual-trajectory, wind-fighting is brilliant,” he added. “In the click of a build a sandcastle. If you use wet sand continuously looking at improvements nozzles for highly efficient button you can change the speeds of to build a sandcastle then it will hold it he can make to raise the bar even performance in a range of applications. the sprinklers, so for instance on a all together and you’ll have a good higher. When he felt that he wasn’t It also provides total top serviceability match-day we only need to put a little castle. If you use dry sand then it will getting the best out of the previous (TTS) via its integrated, surface- amount of water on but it needs to just all fall out. It’s exactly the same with irrigation system, he knew that it was mounted snap-ring for no-dig easy cover a lot of ground. With the remote a football pitch – keep it wet and it will time for a change. maintenance – something which we can change the rotation setting to a stay nice and firm and hold together.” James looked to see what was James is particularly impressed with. faster speed, so that we get a decent www.karuk.com
34 January 2020 www. .co.uk Stratford-on-Avon GC gets the Total Solution from Toro Stratford-On-Avon Golf Club in Warwickshire has chosen Toro for its new irrigation system, adding to its full fleet of Toro machinery and becoming a Total Solutions customer. Having spent years building up a “Our old system was 20 years old complete Toro fleet to maintain its 18- and not having the latest technology hole parkland course, Stratford-On- to hand was made all the more Avon Golf Club knows the value of evident in the heatwave of 2018,” says investing in the brand, which is why Chris. “The weather was so severe the course manager Chris Bromley opted fairways burned up and we were for Toro again when it came to club’s doing lots of hand watering. Trying to irrigation needs. do that across a 160-acre course is “We’ve had Toro Infinity sprinklers hard work, so it was vital we got a new installed across the course on the system in place as soon as possible.” fairways, greens, surrounds, Despite the need for a new system, approaches and the larger tees, as well for Chris it was important that as T5 sprinklers for the smaller tees thorough research was undertaken and then the Lynx control system with before making a decision on which weather station to top it off,” says brand and system to go with. Chris. “We visited distributor Reesink “To put it simply, Toro irrigation Turfcare on stand at SALTEX and provides everything we need. The Harrogate to talk through the benefits sprinklers are easy to maintain and of the Lynx system as well as going easy to use, particularly the Infinity along to Toro roadshows and visiting sprinklers. They’re top accessible other golf clubs to see it in action. The which makes any maintenance simple, club was investing a large amount, so plus changing the arcs, nozzles and it had to be absolutely right.” trajectory is all quick and easy to do. Since the quick and seamless “With Lynx, everything you need is installation by Full Circle Irrigation all on one screen. With the click of a completed in May this year, it seems button you can set up the irrigation for Toro has more than proved itself to be your whole golf course and control the right system for the club. watering to the second which has had “From start to finish it’s been great. a big effect on water savings. We also The installation and service from both opted for the weather station, which is Full Circle Irrigation and Reesink have great, because it allows us to monitor been very good and the course has the course more accurately and massively improved. Previously it irrigate precisely.” could take up to half an hour to set up With the club’s previous system a sprinkler programme, with Toro that coming to the end of its life, the new takes seconds, and the water coverage irrigation system was a welcome we’ve seen is superb,” concludes Chris. addition. www.reesinkturfcare.co.uk
Chris Bromley with Reesink’s Pete Newton in front of the new irrigation.
.co.uk water management
ClearWater expansion
The ClearWater washpad water recycling system has become a firmly established brand name in the UK. Introduced in 2003 by Highspeed Group Ltd, its British design and manufacture has proved very popular.
Following steady development and the system. We wanted to bring the brand start of export sales, Acumen Waste up to date and the new contemporary Services Ltd acquired the company in logo exemplifies this. Watch out for it on the spring of 2017. Demonstrating a social media, exhibitions, advertising commitment to the development of and our other marketing.” “The system was approved as a Water ClearWater, a separate ClearWater ClearWater now has the opportunity
Division was set up led by General with these extra resources to expand Saving Technology in March 2008 and,
Manager Matthew Mears. Sales have beyond the traditional, but still as such, purchasers of the system in the since moved forward and, to enable the important, golf sector and target other division to handle the extra business markets. UK, are currently able to claim 100%“ of and expand further, ClearWater has BTME is the next exhibition for recently taken on extra staff. The new ClearWater and represents quite a the cost of purchasing and installing the dedicated team now comprises: landmark as this year is the 25th year at Matthew Mears - General Manager, BTME since Highspeed first exhibited. system against taxable profits. Julie Tunningley – Administration, Steve BTME is seen as an important event. Short – Engineer, Jez Coward and Chris Why not call and meet the team on the Burton – Field Sales. Acumen-ClearWater Stand No. 206 Red Reaping the benefits of the large South to see both ClearWater and the A very recent export installation has a compliant system and ClearWater is parent company, Acumen Waste new video showcased. Talk to them too been carried out in Northern Germany the obvious choice. The system was Services Ltd., and enhancing customer about Acumen’s waste management too at Winston Golf with Jordan approved as a Water Saving Technology service, the team are backed up by a services, hazardous waste disposal, spill Tschimperle - Course Manager in March 2008 and, as such, purchasers contingent of “Cross-Trained” Acumen products and remediation. overseeing the installation of a 10,000 of the system in the UK, are currently staff, well versed in ClearWater. These Export is high on the agenda too litre ClearWater system and a large able to claim 100% of the cost of expansion plans have seen the withsales to the USA golf sector. It's an washpad. ClearWater’s German purchasing and installing the system introduction of new marketing important but notoriously difficult distributor Golfkontor of Hamburg was against taxable profits in the year of initiatives too with the emphasis on re- market to penetrate. This is the result of actively involved, ensuring the project purchase (Under the Enhanced Capital branding; an updated logo hard work, particularly at GIS and an was brought to fruition. For European Allowance (ECA) Scheme). Regrettably, (sympathetic to Acumen branding), a arrangement set up this year with Ewing conformity ClearWater is manufactured however, this scheme will come to an new and up to date video and fresh Irrigation. ClearWater will be featured to EN858 standards. Approval was also end in April 2020; so you need to move advertising / publicity. Said Matthew on Ewing’s Booth # 2838 at GIS 2020 in gained for the project and system to quickly to buy and comply! Mears; “The logo may have changed but Orlando and Matthew Mears will be in meet local German regulations. www.clearwatertv.co.uk it’s the same class-leading ClearWater attendance. The time certainly is right to purchase The pitches on the field are used every
36 January 2020 www. .co.uk Major school works for Duncan Ross Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School in Blackburn aims to increase the use of their sports field using new primary and secondary drainage from Duncan Ross Ltd.
day throughout the school year, home and we’re confident that will be the fraise mowed with the Koro Field straight away to tell me he’d found to two local football teams at the case. Topmaker to remove 85-90% of the something that meant we had to adjust weekends, consisting of two adult teams “Working with Duncan Ross has been existing vegetation before the pipe and our specification slightly. What’s good and one junior section. very smooth. They stuck to the slit drains were installed and the surface when you’re dealing with Duncan is that In the two years before the work, the programme of works and kept us seeded. he’ll improvise, he doesn’t just phone pitches began to hold water during the informed with what was going on. They Mark has now worked with Duncan you up and say, ‘that won’t work’ - he’ll winter months, preventing students worked well with our groundsman, and Ross Ltd on a number of projects and say ‘I’ve found this, it isn’t ideal, but I’ve using them regularly and causing he was also kept informed about commends Duncan’s ability to think on thought about it, and this is how I think fixtures to be called off. everything. He’s very happy, and he’ll his feet and offer quick solutions when we can achieve the finish on the job’. Having recognised the issue, the start to mark the pitches out in the next issues arise. That proactive approach makes the school, through director of business and couple of weeks, and he’s very confident He said: “Duncan went to the site process a lot quicker and reduces any finance, Paul Atkinson, enlisted that we’ll be playing on them in prior to the drainage installation and he downtime, which means we’re able to Professional Sportsturf Design (PSD) to September. We’re looking forward to had to dig down and prove some of the meet our deadlines.” carry out an initial survey of the site. using the pitches all year round, existing drainage. He phoned me www.duncanrossltd.co.uk Paul explained: “There was an especially throughout the winter existing drainage system that had been months.” installed several years ago, but it was no The initial survey was done by PSD longer doing the job, and as a result, the project manager, Mark Higgs, who pitches started to become unplayable in recognised the need to install new pipe the winter. It began to affect our drainage to replace the older pipes, that
students who couldn’t use them had become capped off over time. “There was an existing drainage system
regularly, and our income at the Secondary slit drains were also that had been installed several years weekends because the fixtures would installed to make the pitches better be called off. equipped to deal with downpours and ago, but it was no longer doing the job,“ “Now the pitches are looking fine, ensure water drained efficiently from and we’re confident they’ll be ready for the surface. and as a result, the pitches started to the new school year. We did all the work As well as the drainage work on the in one go with a view to having them in entire field, particular attention was paid become unplayable in the winter. operation for the academic year, which to Pitch 1, the main match pitch, which began on the 2nd September 2019, had a layer of thatch. This pitch was
www. .co.uk January 2020 37 preview
Turf’s greatest collaboration
The biggest names in turf management will come together in the historic North Yorkshire town of Harrogate during January for Europe’s premier exhibition and educational conference.
BTME 2020 and the Continue to Learn said: “I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to education programme for turf Harrogate and found it a really Major events at BTME 2020 professionals is due to return to the worthwhile experience. I live and work Harrogate Convention Centre from in a very remote area and it is all too BIGGA Welcome Celebration members. The categories are: Sunday 19 to Thursday 23 January easy to become detached and isolated sponsored by Campey Turf Care Outstanding Contribution of the Year 2020. from the rest of the industry. Spending Systems sponsored by Jacobsen; BIGGA Chief Executive Jim Croxton two days at the show allowed me the BIGGA’s free-to-attend welcome event Championship Performance of the Year said: “The golf industry is changing opportunity to not only catch up on features two drinks receptions and will sponsored by Rigby Taylor; faster than ever with new rules, new advancements in machinery and celebrate all the finest achievements of Greenkeeping Project of the Year technology and new challenges posed agronomic technology, but also to meet BIGGA members and milestones from sponsored by Baroness and Kubota. by the economy and our changing a lot of professional people who I had this year. climate. At its heart BTME is about either never had the opportunity to There’s a lot of bad news The BIGGA Excellence in providing BIGGA members and the speak with before or who I had not seen surrounding the golf industry each Communications Awards entire golf industry with the tools it for a long time. year, but the Welcome Celebration is At the BIGGA Welcome Celebration needs to overcome any of the problems “I came back to Machrie with an opportunity to celebrate everything we’ll be announcing the winner of the we face, to create a strong and more renewed enthusiasm and increased that’s good about the greenkeeping first BIGGA Excellence in vibrant sport for generations to come. product knowledge and I have no industry, and we know that’s key to Communications Award, with the “I look forward to welcoming people doubt that my employers and the growing a thriving sport for years to winner receiving an all-expenses-paid from all over the UK and further afield, members of the Islay Golf Club will come. trip to Jacksonville, Florida, courtesy of from all levels of the sports turf benefit from this experience.” During the event the winners of the Campey Turf Care, where they will visit management industry, to Harrogate in With so many attendees from all BIGGA Awards will be announced, as the Air2G2 factory, TPC Sawgrass, TIAA January for what promises to be over the globe, BTME is a hugely- will the winner of the inaugural BIGGA Bank Field – the home of the another fantastic exhibition.” important event for the golf industry in Excellence in Communications Award Jacksonville Jaguars – and Daytona Last year’s exhibition saw nearly the UK and across Europe. Exhibitors to with Campey Turf Care Systems. International Speedway. There’s also a 9,000 BIGGA members, turf managers, the event are often surprised by the £750 cash prize for the winner. golf club owners, managers and engagement and expert knowledge of BIGGA Awards 2020 industry decision makers pack into the the greenkeepers and turf professionals Each year BIGGA provides the Green Room Podcast Live hosted centre to discover the latest products who attend and there is a strong case to opportunity for its members to be by Curtis Tyrrell MG CGCS and innovations plus unrivalled be made that golf clubs that engage recognised for their incredible hard The Green Room Golf Course Podcast is networking opportunities. with the wider industry including work and dedication throughout the BIGGA’s popular new audio offering, Simon Freeman is course manager at BIGGA through staff membership are year. BIGGA’s annual awards with host Karl Hansell bringing regular The Machrie on Islay in Scotland. He better run and more successful. acknowledge the achievements of its stories from around the industry.
38 January 2020 www. .co.uk “I look forward to welcoming people
from all over the UK and further afield,
from all levels of the sports turf management industry, to Harrogate“ in January for what promises to be another fantastic exhibition.
Then on Wednesday, Curtis and his education programme for those in the expert guests will discuss water and its turf industry. Attracting more than effects on golf operations, what it’s like 3,000 delegates, the programme working with the European Tour, meet features almost 80 individual education BIGGA’s new president Colin Webber events and is held over four day. and the future role of automated Continue to Learn 2020 will feature machinery in the greenkeeping more than 250 hours of education industry. delivered by over 90 speakers. The Golf Course Architecture and BTME Breakfast Club – “Cock-ups, Management Forum will showcase Disasters and Calamities” collaborations between architects, Returning for BTME 2020 on course managers and their Wednesday morning is the hugely greenkeeping teams at some of the popular BTME Breakfast Club, which biggest projects in golf, including Royal will this year take a closer look at what Portrush, Royal Dornoch and The JCB At BTME, former Ryder Cup Topics for discussion on Tuesday are happens when things go wrong out on Golf & Country Club. superintendent Curtis Tyrrell – himself The Solheim Cup and the importance the course. Hosted by BIGGA’s favourite Regular favourites such as the Turf host of The Course Reports podcast – of volunteer support teams, The Open golf nut, Naga Munchetty, this Managers’ Conference, the Deputies’ will be hosting a series of iteresting at Royal Portrush and advice on entertaining session will hear the true Conference and the Young discussions in BTME’s Blue Zone. working overseas. stories of greenkeepers who jumped in Greenkeepers’ Conference will also and saved the day, making it a great return. way to continue your BTME experience Registration for BTME is currently on the second day of the exhibition. open and you can book your place online now by heading to the BTME BTME Early Bird 5k Run website. sponsored by Syngenta. BIGGA will be hosting a 5km run Also look out for around Harrogate at 6.30am on Other exciting new attractions taking Wednesday morning to help raise place throughout BTME include a awareness of mental health among Sustainability Zone in association with men. The run will be led by Ben Davis, the Golf Environment Organisation, the running ambassador for the the Golf Research Enterprise live turf Campaign Against Living Miserably. laboratory with the STRI Group and a CALM is the leading movement against New Products Area, where the best male suicide, which is the single new product at BTME 2020 will be biggest killer of men under the age of selected. 45 in the UK. Ben has done a huge Once again, the BIGGA stand at amount over charity work over the BTME 2020 will be located in the Blue years and was proclaimed Yorkshire Zone and will give visitors to the show Man of the Year in 2018. the opportunity to chat to members of BIGGA staff from about everything the Continue to Learn 2020 association can do to support Once again, running alongside BTME members, including benefits, Returning for BTME 2020 on Wednesday morning is the hugely popular will be BIGGA’s Continue to Learn volunteering opportunities and BTME Breakfast Club, which will this year take a closer look at what education programme. Continue to opportunities for career development. happens when things go wrong out on the course. Learn is the most comprehensive www.btme.org.uk
www. .co.uk January 2020 39 preview
Toro launches first battery-powered Greensmaster Reesink Turfcare is launching Toro’s most eagerly individual cylinder and virtually eliminates the effect anticipated technology, the most advanced on the know as ‘Triplex-Ring’. The double A-Arm suspension market, at BTME. The all-new all-electric Greensmaster system, with industry-leading Flex technology, means eTriFlex 3370 ride-on mower with the industry’s first the cutting units float freely and closely over any lithium-ion battery powered unit will be on stand 420. terrain and deliver superior contour-following. It’s the quietest ride-on greensmower and But back to that all-important all-electric point. incorporates features that will revolutionise the Lower emissions and fuel savings, yet ample power to market says Toro, and Toro’s innovation could not be get the job done, the eTriFlex 3370, which will be more evident in this machine, even if you didn’t focus joined on stand by its hybrid counterpart the eTriFlex on its all-electric credentials for a moment, with a 3360, means customers can respond to business ream of patented or patent-pending features bringing demands for increased revenue by cutting earlier and a host of benefits and solutions for greenkeepers. therefore delivering earlier tee times to customers. Toro’s ‘radius dependent speed system’ delivers an Not only that but responding to environmental optimal perimeter cut by monitoring each individual concerns is a subject spanning the industries, and cylinder and traction wheel speed during turns and there simply has to be the choice for businesses to that, in conjunction with the ‘lift-in-turn’ cutting unit buy electric whether that be a car or a fine turf mower. levelling feature, standardises the clip rate of each www.reesinkturfcare.co.uk Foley Company exceed expectations going into BTME Foley Company has exceeded UK market expectations Accu-Touch 3, once the grinder has started, operators heading into BTME 2020 after impressing are free to continue with other tasks while grinding is greenkeepers with the speed and versatility of the completed. Foley range of spin and relief grinders. Les Howkins, course manager at The Richmond Through ProSport UK Ltd, a number of turf Golf Club, has benefitted from the speed of the 633 professionals have invested in the benefits Foley Accu-Pro and has also experienced the machines grinders offer. The most popular model in 2019 has quiet operation and units that stay on cut for longer. been the 633 Accu-Pro with Accu-Touch 3 Control, Les explained: “For us, one of the main advantages which has been installed at Hankley Common Golf of choosing the Foley Accu-Pro 633 is that it delivers Club, The Wisley Golf Club, The Richmond Golf Club, relief and spin grinding in the one machine and the Garstang Golf Club, Farol, Chris Gibson Garden changeover is very quick – approximately 20 seconds. Machinery and RD Mechanical Services to name just a “Our mechanic, Ian Clarke, is delighted with the few. quality of cut delivered by the Foley. Now that we can Using the optional Accu-Touch 3 Control makes this relief grind quickly and efficiently and the cutting even easier. You tell the machine what you’re working units stay on cut longer, he will be able to manage our on and it does the rest using pre-programmed spin grinding programme much more effectively. speeds, relief torque and in-feeds. With or without the www.prosportukltd.com An interactive experience at BTME Rigby Taylor will be launching a number of exciting fertiliser with a BiO pack and zeolite for enhanced new products at BTME (Purple Zone, Stand 42), plant health, improved disease resistance, rapid using touch-screen TV monitors to provide visitors green-up and extended two-three months of colour. with insightful on-stand presentations. The new And visitors will be able to hear more about Rigby Cold Start Boost-R fertiliser with added calcium for Taylor’s Project Pollin-8 programme that assists in improved disease be showcased alongside the reversing the decline of pollinating insects. company’s 2020 range of grass seeds. From its incorporation in 1919, Rigby Taylor has In particular, Carbon4Grass environmentally been at the forefront of providing products and responsible grass seeds will be highlighted, as well services to the sports and amenity turf industry. as the Germin-8T treatment that supports Originally serving horticulturalist and gardeners accelerated seed germination and maximum in the north west of England, the company establishment plus, with the addition of launched its first ‘Taylor’s’ fertiliser in 1930 and mycorrhizal fungi and Trichoderma Viride, quickly became the leading supplier of sports turf optimised nutrition and stimulated disease products in northern England. Throughout the tolerance. 1970s and ‘80s, it established branches in the Also on show will be the recently announced midlands, southern England and Scotland. Autumn Green BiO, the new micro-granular www.rigbytaylor.com
40 January 2020 www. .co.uk See us at BTME 2020 Stand 432 in the Purple Zone Perfect play requires Perfect maintenance
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www. .co.uk January 2020 41 preview
ICL on course for BTME 2020 ICL is preparing for a busy BTME 2020 when the landscape contractors. The updated range contains show takes place at the Harrogate Convention Centre highly ranked STRI varieties which have been on 21-23 January. developed through an extensive breeding selection. Located in the Purple Zone, the ICL Stand (426) BTME 2020 will also provide an opportunity for will be a hub of insightful and practical advice where attendees to discover some very exciting new attendees can network and grab a coffee from the ICL rewards included in ICL’s hugely popular loyalty barista team. scheme – Turf Rewards. ICL will be using BTME as a platform to launch the ICL has been a long-term supporter of BIGGA’s company’s new 2020/21 Product Guide which Continue to Learn education programme and the features the complete range of ICL and Syngenta company will be playing a significant role in the products with advice on how to get the best results, 2020 edition. including recommended period of use, directions for Five greenkeepers will embark on the ICL use and application rates. Continue to Learn Scholarship 2020 and will receive Visitors to stand can pick up a copy of the new three nights’ hotel accommodation and 15 hours of ProSelect grass seed brochure in which they can learn training and personal development at the world- about the new and improved mixtures that are ideal leading education programme. for golf courses, sports fields, turf growers and www.icl-sf.co.uk Harrogate extravaganza the start of celebrations formulations ready for the new season. for hard wearing, shaded golf tees & pathways, the ProNitro® seed technology was launched to much 2020 formulation of J Tee now includes the new acclaim in 2016 and has proven itself to achieve a strong creeping red fescue Laverda. Laverda is the stronger germination and faster establishment, new number one rated fine fescue cultivar, that without the need to apply pre-seed fertilisers – saving delivers unbeatable summer colour and shoot both time and money. The coating now features DLF’s density. For golf, Laverda also features in the updated hydroactive water management technology which J Rye Fairway and J Premier Fairway mixtures. This new year marks the 200th anniversary of the promotes sustainable water and nutrient availability For those turf managers with a focus on improving Johnsons Sports Seed team working within the through significantly improving the water long-term sustainability, the brand-new J 4Turf 100 industry. And the latest Harrogate extravaganza distribution in the surrounding soil. Enhanced mixture will be of particular interest. A 100% signals the start of company celebrations spanning moisture availability during the early stages of plant tetraploid ryegrass mixture, J 4Turf 100 is ideal for throughout 2020. growth gives each developing seedling the optimum the rapid renovation of worn sports turf areas. The To commemorate, visitors to stand 214 in the Red conditions for strong root development and healthy, increased chlorophyll density and greater root mass Zone will have a chance to win big in a special ‘200 vigorous growth. of DLF’s 4Turf ryegrasses optimise water and fertiliser Years’ competition. It will also be the launch platform The new ProNitro® coating is available on a inputs resulting in good looking turf, that’s cheaper for the new ProNitro® Seed Coating from DLF, and a selection of mixtures across the Johnsons Sports to maintain and better for the environment. number of updated Johnsons Sports Seed Seed range, including J Premier Pitch and J Tee. Ideal www.dlf.co.uk KAR UK & Hunter join forces at BTME 2020 KAR UK and Hunter Industries are joining forces to as it integrates Valve-in-Head (VIH) capabilities and a exhibit at BTME 2020 on Stand 270 in the Red Zone. TTS design to simplify installation and maintenance. KAR UK, the leading wholesaler of irrigation Engineered for sports turf, the I-80 is built with a equipment in the UK and an integral distributor of robust, dirt-tolerant gear drive that offers the highest Hunter Industries irrigation equipment, will once torque output of any rotor in the commercial sphere, again be exhibiting at the Harrogate based show. and extends a radius range from 11.3 to 29.6 meters. Visitors to the joint stand can expect to discover a Hunter’s line-up of controllers offer an array of wide range of market leading irrigation products that user-friendly features and smart controller water- could make significant improvements to turf. saving options built to fit any sports and landscape Here is a glimpse of what to expect: irrigation system. The modular design of the ICC2 The Hunter TTS-800 rotors provide maximum and the ACC2 controllers set yet another industry uniformity and longevity. The high-torque gear drives standard for easy-to-use and expandable automatic are the strongest in the industry, so the challenges of irrigation controllers. reclaimed water use or poor water quality are Another highlight on the KAR UK and Hunter A PC-based software package that makes central mitigated. An extra-large, fast-access flange stand will be the recently launched ST-1700V rotor control of large-scale irrigation systems affordable, compartment comfortably accommodates wire which offers unrivalled high-performance irrigation usable, and comprehensible. connections and other components. for synthetic turf. Simplicity is the key to the ST-1700V www.karuk.com / www.hunterindustries.com
42 January 2020 www. .co.uk
TOUCH-UP OR RETURN TO OEM SPEC. THE CHOICE IS YOURS. Cold start? No matter how you grind it, foley Then kick start! has a sharpening solution for your turf maintenance program .
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E: [email protected] Tel: 07779 270501 www.prosportukltd.com
Be prepared this winter with Leading by design • ExceptionalTurf / Sod Traction Cutters & Cutting Ability • Solid Turf or Hollow Aerators Coring Tines • Low Operator Hand Arm Vibrations • Proven Reliability & Performance Cold Start • 12 - 24 inch Sod Cutting Widths • Consistent Depth to 5” Depth Boost-R NOW WITH ADDED The TRUE cold start CALCIUM microgranular fertilizer with added benefits Cold Start Boost-R now contains Calcium for improved turf disease tolerance, with the Nitrate •Soil Hugs Contours/ Core for Collector Clean Collection • CoreTractor and Collect Aerators in one Pass content releasing Nitrogen under cold conditions. • For Groundsman Aerators, Turf • Fast Coverage The high Iron content, in Tractors and other aerators • Clean Collection with No Smearing conjunction with Magnesium provides a rapid colour boost. The added incorporation of Zeolite reduces nutrient leaching and improves Cation Exchange Capacity. , See us at BTME - Purple Stand 424 Rigby Taylor Ltd Freephone 0800 424919 www.rigbytaylor.com [email protected] Versatile Tel : +44(0) 28 2766 7049 Reliable [email protected] Performance... www.groundsmanindustries.com
www. .co.uk January 2020 43
preview John Deere expanded fairway mower line-up on show from January 21-23. technology with the popular 6000A Series model Sharing technologies with the award-winning A design.” Model mower range, the 6080A and 6500A E-Cut Equipped with a powerful 24.7hp (18.4kW) diesel hybrid electric fairway mowers feature high- engine, the 6080A and 6500A E-Cut hybrid mowers performance electric reel drive, which greatly reduces feature a three-wheel smooth tyre configuration on a the number of potential hydraulic leak points to durable chassis, with premium performance and ensure maximum productivity and performance. In comfort features for all-day mowing. Width of cut is addition to their economical price, these new 80in (2m) on the 6080A and 100in (2.5m) on the mowers can be operated at lower engine speeds, 6500A, with 18 and 22in (46 and 56cm) QA5 cutting which further reduces operating costs by decreasing units respectively. fuel consumption. These new models include the proven eHydro “We’re excited to bring the E-Cut hybrid mowing transmission and LoadMatch as standard, which system to the 6000A Series fairway mowers,” says maintains a high quality cut even when working on John Deere’s European turf sales & marketing slopes. A mowing speed of 8mph (13kph) on both John Deere has announced two new additions to the manager Carlos Aragones. “Powerful and full of models allows operators to be more productive by economical 6000A Series fairway mower line-up, premium features at an economical price, the 6080A covering larger areas in less time. which will be previewed at BTME 2020 in Harrogate and 6500A combine our proven E-Cut hybrid electric www.deere.co.uk New solutions launch for aeration and brushing A brand-new addition to the renowned Redexim Verti- matter and dispersal of worm casts. greenkeepers, groundsmen and contractors alike Drain range will be a particular highlight on the The Verti-Drain 2519 is considered the next looking for a machine suitable for year-round Charterhouse Turf Machinery stand at BTME 2020. generation of high-speed, high-productivity aerator. It operation. Expanding the existing offering with a new 1.9m combines it’s 1.9m working width with a variable As well as updates to the aeration portfolio, working width, it is ideal for use on a variety of turf working depth of up to 250mm (10”) and can accept Charterhouse will also be launching a new tool into surfaces. Visitors to stand 432 in the Purple Zone will a range of tine options including 12mm and 19mm their brush range. As an ever-increasing number of also be able to find out about the new 6m wide Top- solid tines, as well as hollow tines for coring. This chemicals continue to be withdrawn from the market, Brush for course presentation, removal of organic versatility makes it a popular choice with Course Managers are turning to mechanical forms of maintenance to keep surfaces balanced and reduce contributing factors to disease. The Redexim Top-Brush’s 6m working width makes it ideal for large areas such as golf fairways and sports pitches. It is comprised of 3 poly brushes, that can be accurately set to the desired depth to achieve a light surface brush-in or more aggressively loosen surface material. www.charterhouse-tm.co.uk Campey bring sustainable course maintenance to BTME Campey Turf Care Systems is bringing the 100% full day without any worry of batteries running out. electric AllTrec Tool Carrier to BTME 2020 to introduce A large-action radius and highly efficient the future of zero CO2-emissions golf course attachments combined with low operation and maintenance. maintenance costs make the AllTrec perfect for use in The Tool Carrier will be in Red Hall North, Stand urban environments, sports complexes, holiday 276 along with other popular turf care machinery resorts and parks by contractors, local authorities and including Vredo Compact Seeders, Dakota Turf landscapers. Tenders and the Air 2G2 Air Inject. The machine, With its zero turning capabilities, it is agile enough designed by Dutch manufacturer, WeedControl B.V., to work in small enclosed spaces while also having is the latest in a long line of products Campey has been designed to work on large areas with a long- introduced to meet industry trends. lasting battery to match its versatility. The electrically driven hedge cutter can be fully All batteries come with a three-year warranty and operated using a joystick, making it easy to operate have a lifetime of + - 2500 charge discharge cycles. for a day of work, while the LPG tanks used for the E- The 48VDC battery uses LifePO4 technology with a Variator Weed Burner can be mounted to the back of capacity of 20kwh or an optional 30kwh, with the AllTrec, with a connection for the automatic tank also be tackled using the Weedbrush, which can be onboard charging taking 4-8 hours. heater to prevent them from freezing. Weeds can hydraulically adjusted to any angle, and used for a www.campeyturfcare.com
44 January 2020 www. .co.uk
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Fab 4 for Dennis & SISIS at Harrogate Dennis and SISIS will be making their annual trip to rate, service checks, lifetime running reports and Harrogate in January and BTME visitors can expect to battery information. see four fantastic products on display in the Red Zone The ES-860 will be joined by the FT510 on Stand 244. professional mower in representing the famous Dennis Mowers recently launched a new and Dennis brand at BTME. When it comes to all areas of exciting range of mowers called the E-Series and no fine turf, the Dennis FT510, has for many years, been doubt the ES-860 cylinder mower will prove to be celebrated for its top performance and durability. With somewhat of a show-stopper at BTME 2020. This 34” a 51cm working width, the FT510 provides its user battery powered turf management system delivers with comfort, flexibility and excellent presentation. maximum versatility and the range of 13 A true sense of control is obtained through the interchangeable cassette options provide a solution to unique roller clutch drive for a smooth take-up and a many day-to-day maintenance tasks such as cutting, variable clip rate helping to create the desired finish. scarifying, brushing, slitting and aeration. Available with five-bladed and ten-bladed cutting A weather proof colour LCD programmable display cylinders the machine can be matched to any keypad screen is an integral feature of the handlebar situation and the interchangeable cassettes can be console providing the operator with a multitude of changed without the requirement of any tools. information options including ground speed, clip www.dennisuk.com / www.sisis.com Headland launch improved Turfite formulation Headland Amenity will be launching an updated Elite is also fully compatible with a number of and improved formulation of their popular other Headland products including Seamac Ultra Turfite product at BTME 2020. Visitors to Stand Plus and TeMag Elite. It is available in 10 and 100 272 in the Red Zone at Harrogate can hear how litre containers, and cost and rates of use are Turfite Elite is already showing excellent results in exactly the same as the previous Turfite the company’s leading ‘20-20-30’ non-pesticidal formulation. tank mix, in the fight to minimise incidences of As leaders in integrated disease management, turf disease. Headland have been trialling effective non- New Turfite Elite is based on potassium pesticidal products with the STRI since 2007. phosphite and Salicylic acid – a known systemic These products and combinations have been acquired resistance (SAR) elicitor which provides a refined over this period and now provide clear disease suppression pathway, by triggering established results in the field. the SAR mechanism. The company will use Harrogate as a platform to By stimulating stronger root development, it launch two new biostimulant, seaweed-based has demonstrated in trials to contribute to a products, together with a new non-pesticidal stronger grass plant that is less susceptible to disease management concept. stress-related disease. As well as ’20-20-30’, Turfite www.headlandamenity.com MM the key to course improvements MM the key to course improvements choosing the MM brand and the high-quality Visitors to the Limagrain UK stand (162), located in varieties used in MM mixtures. All varieties are the Blue Zone at BTME 2020, can expect a range of thoroughly tested at the Sports Turf Research market leading products that can significantly Institute (STRI) – ensuring that the finished product improve both the quality and aesthetics of a golf will meet your requirements for play, appearance course. and maintenance. For 2020 there will be two new exciting MM For golf greens MM9 – a three-way Browntop bent mixtures which will offer turf managers new grass mixture continues to be a leading mixture for seed solutions for golf and general sports turf. renovations and species exchange. For links style fairways, then the 100% ryegrass MM50 should be As the demand and pressure placed on the courses and sustainable golf, MM8 offers a great considered. It is capable of rapid establishment and modern-day greenkeeper to produce a consistent option - a three-way fescue mix with excellent disease fast recovery from divot scarring plus high wear playing surface continually grows, seed quality, resistance, drought tolerance and minimal fertiliser tolerance and has extremely fine appearance purity and vigour are the essential ingredients for a requirements gives course managers a fine, dense For links style golf where damage and wear are first-class golf course and Limagrain’s MM range of sward. MM8 contains varieties such as Nikky and lower, MM12 or MM13, are both well suited to this seed mixture provides exactly these. Aporina which have proved to be successful in coastal challenging environment as they are drought For over 30 years, greenkeepers and course conditions. tolerant and have low maintenance requirements. managers have been enjoying the benefits by If you are looking for a mixture ideal for tees and www.lgseeds.co.uk/amenity
46 January 2020 www. .co.uk PETROL HAS HAD ITS DAY.
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Double launch for ISEKI with new tractor and mower ISEKI is excited to be showcasing a new compact the range SF450, a powerful, large capacity centre tractor alongside their renowned tractor range, plus a collect mower which is now also available with a new game-changing mower at BTME 2020. Muthing Flail deck, making it the ultimate Joining the established and reliable TH range of combination of quality and reliability. Its large ISEKI compact tractors is the brand new TH5420, outfront deck and 1300litre high tip collector allows coming complete with a Stage V compliant engine, you tackle the thickest of grass whilst collecting and low emissions and a new range of accessories. It’s leaving a pristine finish everytime. The ability to cut impressive 1,200kg lift capacity with 3 speed and collect without blocking, thanks to its turbine hydrostatic transmission allows for ease of control driven straight through chute, enables the SF450 to whilst powering implements. High torque and low take on whatever the weather throws at it. This is the fuel consumption along with 2-speed rear PTO, 2 hallmark of ISEKI mowers. mode engagement and auto-stop function, plus a ISEKI UK & Ireland are the distributors of ISEKI mid PTO allows for a huge range of turf maintenance compact tractors and mowers for UK, Ireland, Iceland, equipment to be used on the golf course. All of this Middle East, South Africa and Russia. can be done whilst in the ultimate comfort of the Visit ISEKI on stand 145 to see the new products factory fitted cab with air conditioning. for yourself. For keeping the rough pristine we have the top of www.iseki.co.uk. A hole-in-one at BTME for Sherriff Amenity Sherriff Amenity will be on Stand 164 in the Blue fertilisers such the E2 Pro range and iNTrench range, Zone at BTME 2020. Visitors can look forward to new wetting agents featuring the highly regarded Aqua- product information, refreshments and they will also Zorb; herbicides, fungicides, grass seed and much, be able test their golfing skills on the putting green. much more. Visitors will be able to pick up a copy of the The brochure will also contain valuable advice on recently launched 2020 product brochure – how to get the best results from the products, featuring an all-encompassing range of products for including recommended period of use, directions turf managers. for use and application rates. As the industry leading supplier of professional Sherriff Amenity’s established team of BASIS products and specialist advice, Sherriff Amenity has qualified Amenity Specialists, will be on hand an extensive range of products and solutions, throughout the event to provide professional trusted by turf managers throughout the UK and technical advice and recommendations, based on beyond. each customer’s specific requirements. The new 2020 brochure contains in-depth On the stand, why not also grab a much-needed information on the complete range of products coffee from the barista team and go for glory on the including granular fertilisers such as the Marathon putting green? range and Evolution range; liquid and soluble www.sherriffamenity.com Price Turfcare returning to where it all began Price Turfcare will be back at the venue officially used Carden Park in Cheshire they now have two to launch the business back in 2017. Their presence machines. at BTME 2020 will represent a celebration of the their “However, it’s not just high-end courses that see third anniversary as a business. the benefits of a versatile machine. Many smaller Managing Director Rupert Price says: “The hard clubs have committed to Ventrac because they can work of our close-knit team over the past three years add attachments extremely cost-effectively once they is now paying off as we grow in all sectors of the have purchased an initial tractor unit. groundscare industry, particularly in golf. Three years “As well as golf customers, machines are going ago, the Ventrac brand was virtually invisible in the into major sports facilities, to large landscape UK, but now we have established it as a credible contractors, rental companies and to some private brand. buyers with large estates. The addition of the Ryan “We’ve made significant sales into golf courses franchise in 2018 also gave us a boost, and the result over the past year and have some serious prospects is that we have an eclectic mix of turf maintenance as we enter 2020. Prestigious courses across the UK machinery to suit any organisation, small or large.” are taking an interest in the versatility offered by our Come and visit us on stand 450 in the Purple Area product. The Club Company has seen the benefits and see why we are making such an impact. and now have four Ventracs across the group and at www.priceturfcare.com
48 January 2020 www. .co.uk GKB to showcase a range of reliable products GKB will be attending the BTME 2020 show to course. GKB Machines will be encompassing showcase their range of machinery. The show will be everything you need to maintain your golf courses taking place on 21st – 23rd January at the Harrogate during the year. Convention Centre. Like the much loved Sandspreader enabling you Visitors can expect to see the Sandfiller, to distribute a great variety of materials, GKB is Sandspreader and Combiseeder on display at the proud to be presenting a range of our impressive, show and will be impressed with the versatility on durable maintenance machines at the 2020 show, turf surfaces throughout the season. perfect for your golf course. With last year’s show seeing nearly 9,000 visitors Tom Shinkins, Operations Manager, said “BTME is from turf managers, golf club owners and industry a great opportunity to exhibit our products for the decision-makers, the BTME 2020 is a great event golf sector. from networking opportunities to seeing the latest “The amount of course managers that attend the innovation in the turf maintenance industry. event for networking and educational needs is From perfection from the green until the tee and growing year on year and it’s vital that we are there the perfect combination of maintaining and at the show. Visit us on stand Purple 406 to book improving drainage systems, to discovering a fast your demonstrations.” and efficient way to seed or overseed your golf www.gkbmachines.com The ultimate UltraGroomer® comes to Harrogate Changes in pesticide legislation are having an ever- apart, to reduce Poa ingress, minimise puffiness and to increase greens speed. During the winter months, deepening effect on sports turf quality. With this in prevent the build-up of organic matter. By improving when the plant is at its most vulnerable, the mind Turf Mangers are having to carefully consider the plants immediate environment, it becomes more SMARTVibe™ can be employed as an alternative to the role of mechanical maintenance in delivering a difficult for disease pathogens to take hold. mowing to reduce plant stress. Vibratory rolling can proactive plant health strategy. The UltraGroomer™ The UltraGroomer™ can also be effectively used in smooth the greens surface and quicken play without cassette from the renowned TMSystem™ collection is conjunction with other cassettes from cutting, eliminating passes of heavy pieces of specifically designed to provide a healthier turf theTMSystem™ range, particularly the SMARTVibe™ equipment which in turn, lowers the risk of environment by preventing the accumulation of compaction. thatch. Visitors can find out more about this, The TMSystem™ is available to fit OEM triplex and alongside the award-winning INFINICUT® range, on light fairway machines, as well as being an integral stand Red 253 at BTME 202 part of the Cub Cadet INFINICUT® mower. Also A thatchy surface that is moisture retentive not playing its part in the fight against disease, the only reduces the movement of oxygen and nutrients, INFINICUT® range features a number of parameters it also provides an ideal environment to harbour that can be adjusted to deliver an unparalleled pathogens. quality of cut, no matter the time of year or The UltraGroomer™ cassette features more than conditions encountered at the given time. 80 tungsten carbide tipped blades, spaced at 5mm www.tmsystem.co.uk Two new machines from BLEC set to impress BLEC will be returning to BTME in Harrogate with the guidance of Redexim design and engineering, details of two new machines being launched into the the Multivator will become a popular tool for landscaping and turfcare range, in early 2020. With a contractors, local authorities and large-scale Redexim touch, the Multivator returns to the landscapers once again. renovation stable by popular demand, while a new Also built in direct response to customer demand pedestrian version of the Rotorake will also be is the new Rotorake 1000. This new compact, introduced. Visitors can find out all the details from pedestrian variant of the larger, tractor-mounted the BLEC team on stand 414 in the Purple Zone. model is designed specifically for use in smaller The Multivator returns good quality material from areas and those with restricted access. Powered by a depths of up to 30cm back into the upper layers of BCS two-wheel tractor or similar, the Rotorake 1000 the soil profile. Once the soil has been successfully features a 100cm working width and uses a multi- exchanged, the rear-mounted brush then ensures tine rotor to rake down to a maximum depth of material is distributed evenly to leave a clean finish 30mm. PTO driven, its principle is the same as that of to the line-up, stopping by the BLEC stand will also in its wake. A popular machine from the BLEC the heavy-duty Rotorake – to move and wind-row give visitors the chance to see some of the most portfolio in days gone by, the Multivator returns with unwanted stones and debris using a contra rotating popular products from their pedestrian range – the a working width of 180cm and a 75hp tractor rotor to leave a clean, level finish. Cultipack Seeder and Power Box Rake. requirement. With a number of new features under Along with finding out about the latest additions www.blecmachinery.com
www. .co.uk January 2020 49 careers
Living the dream
Many turf care professionals are finding a dream lifestyle overseas as they embrace a new culture and lifestyle, as Emma Otusajo has been finding out. “The world is a big place and turf “ management is a worldwide industry enabling individuals to travel.
One man embracing this lifestyle Former professional golfer turned change is Royal Automobile Club golf recruiter, Alan helps hundreds of course manager Lee Strutt. He is greenkeepers to land roles worldwide, thrilled to be become the new grow-in including Holland, Belgium, Germany superintendent and estate manager at and Australia. Of all his recruits, around Les Bordes International Golf Club, from 40% are from the UK. February “They’re already trained and are specialised in the job,” he says. “There’s Demand for UK staff no particular turf care training in Lee's journey began when the project’s Europe and staff tend to come from an advising agronomist, Chris Haspell, agricultural background.” approached Lee about the two-year contract. Despite it being short-term, How teams work Lee went for it, as it came from a “The way golf courses hire is so different recommendation based on his in Europe,” Alan adds. “Only three or outstanding reputation as a four staff are permanent and the rest greenkeeper. are hired seasonally. Before applying, Lee visited the site “What I do is find somebody a role in to get an idea of the course and its Europe for six months, and then in potential development, as well as Australia or New Zealand for the next six discovering if he felt the same passion months. They alternate this pattern for a as for his course in Surrey. few years, earning more while seeing "For me, grow-ins are like nursing a the world.” baby, you have to attend to its every Staff are hired seasonally because it's whim and learn from it!'' says Lee. more cost-effective than hiring “Golf courses and sports stadiums permanent staff. Alan compares the internationally, place a high value on average greenkeeper salary of around trained turf managers to work its £23K in the UK, to £39K in Europe. seasonal contracts, with UK staff in particular being in demand”, says Alan The challenges Lindsay, international recruiter of a Lee understands the need to consult Sports Turf Maintenance Company. with family members, getting them on
50 January 2020 www. .co.uk board with the idea of moving abroad. in and share living costs. "For years I've admired my peers and is regarded highly in Europe, which is Fortunately, he has this! Other challenges for Alan are to do mentors like Ken Siems, who has why Lee has taken the opportunity and "I’m lucky to be married to an with the turf care itself, such as the travelled and worked in the Middle is confident he'll continue to perform to amazing wife who supports my turf course changing after its construction. East, China and now Moscow. the high standard he's always set obsession and shares my passion for Wind movement will also change due "The world is a big place and turf himself. travel”, he says. to tree removal and will affect bunkers management is a worldwide industry "With Les Bordes ticking all my The biggest change will be adapting with wind blow. enabling individuals to travel." career and personal goals, there was to a new culture, community and The biggest difference will be around Overall, Lee is going into 2020 never any doubt this was a great language. Aside from this, there'll be using a new language and introducing delighted with his new role. Les Bordes opportunity." new legislation, but in essence Lee sees new standards to the course. this as the joy of moving somewhere new. "It can be daunting for people Advice to others working abroad for the first time," says Lee believes working abroad is a great recruiter, Alan. way to progress in turfcare. As Other fears are about finding applicants are assessed by someone “There’s no particular turf care“ training in housing and surviving until the first pay else’s professional network, reputation, cheque comes through. attitude and aptitude, Lee stresses the Europe and staff tend to come from an Where staff are starting at the same importance of upholding a great agricultural background. golf course, Alan helps find shared reputation and being the best in your accommodation so that they can settle field.
To find your local dealer please call 0141 814 3366 or OUTSTANDING visit www.wiedenmann.co.uk GRASS. C l b i 20 years in groundcareALL YEAR ROUND. Terra Rake Terra Spike GX18 HD ONGAR, ESSEX PEARL 01277 890274 bar50sos.co.uk www.hughpearl.co.uk Super 600 Mega Twister
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It’s about obsessing over the little things, the details no one else sees. It’s never tolerating anything less than the best. FreephonePerfection is a mindset. And that’s worth being proud of. 0800 085 25 22
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