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EDITOR'S BLOG

CHARGED UP FOR NEW MACHINERY
The way ahead
by TurfPro Editor, Laurence Gale MSC, MBPR

With the prevalence of cordless tools available for the turf professional's arsenal, it'll be interesting times ahead for those who make a living from the use, sale and maintenance of petrol & diesel powered kit.

The development of new machinery continues apace.

With the threat of climate change and the need to reduce emissions, curtailing the use of petrol and diesel powered vehicles, machinery and hand tools in the near future is a priority for both legislators and manufacturers. The advancement of battery powered goods is therefore escalating at speed.

Many of the main turf industry machinery manufacturers are now gearing themselves up and investing heavily in battery powered / electric / hybrid vehicles. It will be fascinating to see how it all this develops in the coming years.

In recent weeks, I have been product testing a number of battery-powered hedge trimmers from two suppliers, STIHL and EGO. I must say they have both produced a reliable, professional set of tools to make the job of hedge cutting more efficient, clean, easy and safe to use. A full report on the performance of these products will featured in upcoming editions of TurfPro.

Cordless hand tools such as strimmers, blowers, chainsaws and pruners are becoming cheaper and more assessable. In the last few years, we have also seen great strides taken by all of the major mower manufacturers to develop battery / hybrid driven mowers.

One such company leaving no stone unturned is Dennis Mowers who have spent over three years working with carefully selected partners to develop a range of quality battery-powered equipment. Managing Director Ian Howard said, “Reliable and long-lasting solutions are a must have for our customers and in this rapidly developing technology field we have chosen our partners very carefully. For us it was important to create no compromise alternatives to our petrol mowers, which would not need constantly re-charging or swapping batteries – it was imperative that they last the distance.

“The hard work has paid off and now we can unveil our first market ready equipment befitting of the Dennis badge.”

The Dennis E-Series range currently consists of three products:

the ES-860, 34” battery powered turf management system
the ES-34R rotary mower with twin contra rotating blades
and finally based on the Dennis Premier, the ES-36 provides another choice of mower.

In recent years we have also seen the development of the battery-powered Club Cadet Infinicut precision battery powered mowers which have become very popular with football, golf and cricket facilities. Not to mention all the other leading well known manufacturers who supply gardening and mowing equipment, including the likes of STIHL, Mountfield, Stiga, Husqvarna, ECHO, Countax, John Deere, Ransomes, Allett, Toro, Hayter to name a few. The list keeps on growing with an ever more extensive range of products becoming available.

However, having said all this, the current cost of these battery products is still quite high compared to existing petrol / diesel powered equipment - even taking into account the lower over the course of ownership costs of fuel and servicing. One suspects these expenses will come down substantially in the next few years as the cost of materials reduces and battery technologies become more inclusive.

It will certainly also be interesting to see how long it will be before we see a range of battery powered scarifiers, aerators and rotovators added to the list of battery powered tools we have today.

To date, I have not read any information about cut off dates for petrol engines, so it seems we will have a few years left before have to get rid of our old machinery from all the thousands of sheds up and down the country. However, I suspect it will not be far behind the government’s announcement of the date for a ban on new petrol and diesel cars that has been moved forward to 2030, following a lengthy consultation. There are some exceptions to the ban, with some plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and some full hybrids still able to be sold up until 2035.

So interesting times ahead for many who make a living from the use, sale and maintenance of petrol / diesel powered machinery and equipment.

NEWS

HAYTER LTD CHANGE NAME
To Toro U.K. Limited

Craig Hoare, sales and marketing manager Toro U.K. Limited

In our first WEB ONLY story the company tells TurfPro that the brand name won't disappear and is confident that confusion won't be drawn with the products distributed by Reesink Turfcare.

SAGE SHOW PLEDGES TO RETURN NEXT YEAR
2022 dates promised soon

In our next WEB ONLY story organisers of the inaugural Sports & Grounds Expo (SAGE), that took place at The Three Counties Showground, 27 - 29 July, say the event will return next year.

GMA LAUNCH SECTOR-WIDE SURVEY
For members and non-members

GMA have launched an industry-wide survey

The GMA is once again looking to gather feedback from the turf-care community.

The Grounds Management Association (GMA), a year after it last carried out two surveys giving everyone working or volunteering in the industry a chance to shape the future of its membership offerings, is once again looking to gather feedback from the turf-care community.

The Association says members and non-members can offer their view on what they value and would like to see going forward, by taking part in two surveys - one for individuals working across the sector and one for businesses or suppliers operating in it. The surveys will be open to all respondents until 1 September 2021.

All respondents of the survey will also have the opportunity to enter a prize draw. Respondents who wish to remain anonymous can do so.

The GMA previously conducted member research in August 2020 and say they are looking to build on this research, whilst gathering feedback that will inform activity over the next year.

A spokesperson said, "Through gathering qualitative and quantitative data, this review will analyse the benefits and offering of the membership, looking at what respondents believe are the most valuable, and what aspects of the offering may require improvement. Any necessary feedback will start to be implemented later this year, following an analysis of all data gathered, and continue beyond 2021."

For the individual survey, click here.

For the corporate survey, click here.

WOMEN & GIRLS GOLF WEEK CHAT TO TAKE PLACE
With industry-leading female greenkeepers

BIGGA will welcome Emma Ballard, editor of Women & Golf, as she hosts an online chat with four talented female greenkeepers and finds out more about what they enjoy about their chosen careers.

Women & Girls’ Golf Week returns this month and Monday 16th will see attention turn to those ladies who have built a successful career in the golf industry.

Emma Ballard

To mark the occasion BIGGA will welcome Emma Ballard, editor of Women & Golf, as she hosts an online chat with four talented female greenkeepers and finds out more about what they enjoy about their chosen careers.

The online chat will take place on 16 August at 4pm and joining Emma will be:

Lucy Sellick, course manager at Wenvoe Castle Golf Club
Sophie Bulpitt, deputy course manager at The Berkshire Golf Club
Amanda Dorans, sustainability coordinator at The Gleneagles Hotel
Anna Nilsson, irrigation technician at The Belfry

BIGGA say the chat will be an opportunity to find out what attracted these four ladies to the industry and showcase the incredible opportunities for career development it presents.

Anyone interested in a potential career in greenkeeping - male or female - is invited to register and listen in to the conversation.

Emma Ballard, who recently graduated from The R&A’s Women in Golf Leadership Programme, said, “As someone who has been lucky enough to forge a career in golf, I know what a wonderful industry it is to work in. Whether playing, as part of the media - like myself - or as one of the rising number of brilliant female greenkeepers in the industry, there’s no better place to spend your working life than out on the golf course. I’m really excited to sit and chat to these four incredibly talented female greenkeepers, who all come from a wide variety of backgrounds but are united in their shared passion for their profession. I hope you’re able to join us!”

You can register for the event here.

Women & Girls’ Golf Week is an online campaign hosted by England Golf that promotes female participation in golf at all levels and seeks to challenge negative perceptions about the game.

GTC RELEASES REVISED LEARNING MATERIALS
For for the Level 3 Apprenticeship

The Advanced Golf Greenkeeper Learning Materials are now available for golf clubs and individuals from the Greenkeepers Training Committee.

The Advanced Golf Greenkeeper Learning Materials, developed for the Level 3 Apprenticeship, are now available for golf clubs and individuals to purchase from the Greenkeepers Training Committee (GTC).

The GTC says these best practice learning materials, compiled by industry specialists, are based upon principles and practices for advanced golf course maintenance and management.

Originally compiled to provide the underpinning knowledge for the Level 3 qualification, the GTC Board of Directors and the Employer Group say they have championed the revision of the copyright Learning Materials. Divided into 10 chapters, they cover best practices including health and safety, advanced golf course preparation and maintenance, construction of golf course features, environmental management, finance and project management.

All GTC–BIGGA Approved Training Providers will receive a copy of the Learning Materials, for use with all greenkeeping students on the advanced greenkeeping courses.

GTC Learning and Development Executive, Fiona Lyttle, said, “We are incredibly proud to present the revised Level 3 Learning Materials. After recently reviewing and updating the Level 2 Learning Materials, it became necessary to develop materials appropriate for students learning at the higher level. The Level 3 qualification now incorporates more knowledge and skills that are required at a supervisory level. These materials home in on the knowledge required and how to deliver those skills. The GTC has ensured the Learning Materials are suitable for everyone, from apprentices to golf course managers, with all subjects comprehensively covered.”

ALL-ELECTRIC DEALER PLUGS INTO FARMTRAC
Off-Road Electric in Kidlington

Off-Road Electric is now stocking the Farmtrac FT25G

The UK’s first all-electric dealer of off-road utility vehicles has opted to stock the Farmtrac FT25G fully-electric tractor.

The UK’s first all-electric dealer of off-road utility vehicles, Off-Road Electric based in Kidlington, Oxfordshire, has opted to stock the Farmtrac FT25G fully-electric tractor.

After hearing about the tractor on popular electric-centric YouTube channel ‘Fully Charged’, Off-Road Electric owner Marc Monsarrat got in touch with Reesink Agriculture, Farmtrac’s distributor, to arrange a demo.

Marc said, “We were already stocking electric quad bikes, buggies and converting Land Rovers into electric vehicles, so I knew instantly that an electric tractor would be a perfect fit. Particularly as a number of our clients were smallholders with a passion for going green.

“The Farmtrac FT25G is a serious machine. We only sell sturdy off-road vehicles - not gimmicky electric toys - and this is a proper workhorse utility vehicle. After having a demo I was impressed by its robustness and quality. Plus, by being relatively slimline I knew the FT25G would appeal to both large and small landowners looking for a nimble machine to add to their fleet.”

Marc continued, “The pandemic has taught many in the agricultural sector to do things differently. I speak to a growing number of customers who are looking to shed carbon and gradually move towards doing everything electrically.

“Some customers were already using electric quad bikes but also wanted a PTO to run mowing attachments completely electrically. The FT25G is the missing piece of the puzzle for eco-friendly farmers and estates seeking to mow or till the land with zero emissions.”

Craig Bradshaw and Steven Haynes from Reesink Agriculture are credited with having played an integral role in the success of the relationship. Marc continues: “Part of the decision to stock Farmtrac was down to the service provided by Craig and Steven. They were really approachable and supportive from the off. They were open to a new kind of relationship, bearing in mind we were a new business and focusing exclusively on electric off-road vehicles. They’ve been totally committed and we have a great relationship.”

Craig Bradshaw, Reesink Agriculutre’s UK area sales manager for the Farmtrac tractor brand, said, “It’s been a pleasure working with Marc and his progressive business. It was instantly apparent that the Farmtrac FT25G was going to be the right fit for his offering and we support him in his endeavours to promote the benefits of going green.”

DEALER HELPS DUDSBURY GC STAY IN TRIM
Replaces ageing fleet

Southampton-based dealer, D.J. Scott Garden Machinery, facilitated the recent sale of a Ventrac 4500 all-terrain compact tractor and Contour mowing deck to Dudsbury Golf Club, Hotel & Spa near Bournemouth.

The owners of the resort, Beate and Len Robinson, have supported long-serving head greenkeeper Warren Moss with the purchase to ensure the course stays in pristine condition. Replacing an old zero-turn machine and an ageing Toro Sidewinder, the club say the new package makes sound commercial sense.

Commenting at the recent handover of the equipment Warren Moss said, “We have an ageing fleet and we need to be smarter in how we purchase equipment in the future. The owners were very supportive when I made the business case and we are replacing two machines with one. Because of its versatility, we can add more attachments at a fraction of the cost of purchasing new dedicated equipment, so we should be able to upgrade more cost effectively, when we need to.

“I’d seen the media reports and watched some YouTube videos and even arranged a demo a couple of years ago. We had another demo recently, this time with the Contour deck and it performed extremely well. We use it on tee banks, green surrounds, bunker surrounds and can raise the height of cut to manage the semi-rough. Also, as it has a three-point linkage at the rear, we can mount our Sisis Twin Play with sorrel roller and slitter.

“My main reason for specifying this machine is its slope climbing ability. About a third of the course is on a flood plain, so can be quite wet in winter. Because of its light footprint in its eight-wheel configuration we will be able to get out during wet spells without damaging the playing surfaces.”

Set in 160 acres of undulating Dorset countryside just outside of Bournemouth, the Donald Steel-designed 6,904-yard, par 71 championship course features nine lakes and is bordered by the river Stour. It has hosted several prestigious events including the PGA Europro Tour, which featured on Sky Sports and the BMW PGA Order of Merit Championship.

Warren Moss, who heads a team of six, has been at the club for the past 12 years, the last six as Head Greenkeeper.

OPENING KEYNOTE FOR GIE+EXPO ANNOUNCED
Four-Star Navy Admiral James Stavridis

The longest-serving global combatant commander in recent American military history, Admiral Stavridis will provide answers and strategies to address the most pressing global affairs challenges.

Retired U.S. Navy Four-Star Admiral James Stavridis has been announced as presenting the GIE+EXPO keynote in Lousiville, Kentucky this October.

Entitled, 'Leadership and a New World Order: The Need for Resilience', taking place on Wednesday, October 20, 2 - 3pmm the longest-serving global combatant commander in recent American military history, Admiral Stavridis will provide answers and strategies to address the most pressing global affairs challenges.

Admission to the keynote, which is sponsored by John Deere and the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), is included with trade show registration.

“This past year and half has reminded us that people and connections are so vital to how we live, partner, and thrive. That’s why John Deere is especially proud to be sponsoring the 2021 GIE+EXPO keynote. We’re honoured to help support the return of one of the most important events in our business,” said Stephanie Johnson, Manager, B2C Marketing for John Deere.

Stavridis led the NATO Alliance in global operations from 2009 to 2013 as Supreme Allied Commander with responsibility for Afghanistan, Libya, the Balkans, Syria, counter piracy and cyber security. Subsequently, he served as the 12th dean of The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University. Earlier in his naval career, he was Commander of U.S. Southern Command, with responsibility for all military operations in Latin America. He holds more than 50 medals, including 28 from foreign nations. He is currently an Operating Executive at Carlyle Group.

JOBS

HUSQVARNA UK
Key Account Manager - London North

The role will involve the implementation of Go to market sales and marketing strategies and this will include developing and managing freely a regional Key account Pro Automower® portfolio together with managing and growing existing the direct Pro Key accounts.

Key Account Manager – London North

Company overview

With over 330 years of innovation and passion, Husqvarna provides sustainable solutions within the Professional Greenspace Maintenance. We let high performance meet usability and safety, ensuring you are ready to get the job done efficiently. Every development by Husqvarna is made with the user in mind. Husqvarna offers a wide and growing range of products and accessories, including everything from Professional Chainsaws and Professional Battery handheld products; to Professional robotic lawnmowers (Automower®). With a solid focus on the Professional Automower® solution, we offer the strongest range of sustainable turf care made in the UK and are the world leaders in robotic mowing since 1995. We are therefore looking to grow our team in this area with a talented and pro-active Key Account manager to help us reach our goals.

Key Responsibilities

The negotiation of product listing, making recommendations, and implementing action plans is vital in this role and establishing a sustainable relationship with Pro Automower® customers, answer for tender and negotiating lasting contracts is pivotal.

In addition, the role will involve gathering market and competitor intelligence and analysis and identifying and facilitating marketing opportunities. As part of the role, you will be part of the UK Pro sales team and a strong collaboration with dealer sales team

Support efficient coordination with the various departments of the company to achieve the objectives set:

Marketing activities which include product approach, markets, management of calls for tenders, pricing
Manage sales administration on a regular basis
Liaise with Supply chain for goods being despatched
Support customers with any after sales queries

The Candidate

A good educational background with relevant degree education or equivalent and turf maintenance knowledge and B2B sales experience would be advantageous.

Essential skills for this role include being team player but also able to work independently with a strong “self-starter” approach. In addition, strong interpersonal skills and relationship building are essential qualities with the ability to communicate, present and influence at all levels. Individuals will possess a high level of tenacity, be self-confident with a style that can enliven, engage and positively impacts individuals and groups to succeed together. Finally, you will enjoy working in a fast paced environment and have a strong commitment to results and be commercially astute, numerate and with an appreciation for pricing, costs and profitability.

Additional skills required include:-

Must be highly experienced in: Microsoft packages, Outlook, Word, Excel, Powerpoint and CRM solutions
Full UK driving licence. A towing (B&E) category would be advantageous

Benefits

The role includes a competitive benefits package and our sites across the globe act as culture hubs where collaboration is key to success. The role will also involve elements of home working and will give the best opportunity to combine work and private life.

How to apply

If you are interested in this role, please contact andy.scott@nigelwright.com for further details.

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Sponsored Product Announcements

GIE+EXPO – LOUISVILLE, USA
The international landscape, outdoor living and equipment show

GIE+EXPO returns to the Kentucky Exposition Center, between the 20-22nd October 2021, offering new features including a 4,000sqft hands-on Drone Zone and a UTV Test Track.

Visit the Kentucky Exposition Center, between the 20-22nd October 2021, to take part in GIE+EXPO’s: