GKB Sandfillers And Sandspreaders

in , /by

GKB Sandfillers and Sandspreaders: The new GKB Sandfiller and SP100 Sandspreader are both from the GKB range of equipment specifically designed for the maintenance and renovation of golf courses and sports pitches.GKB Sandfillers And Sandspreaders

The SP100 has been developed on the back of the success of GKB’s trailed versions and to meet customer needs with easy mounting onto turf trucks, such as the John Deere Gator and Toro Workman. Mounting is straightforward with a simple bolt-on system and stand legs allow the SP100 to be quickly set up or removed. With its 1m3 hopper capacity the machine suits a variety of purposes, evenly distributing materials, such as sand and mulch on sports pitches, with variable spread widths and depths. It’s easily fitted with electro-hydraulic controls and runs directly off the hydraulics of the chosen turf truck.

The GKB Sandfiller is built to tackle the problems of surface drainage and aeration, especially on golf course greens. The Sandfiller simultaneously aerates and fills the topsoil with sand, creating the right conditions for excellent root growth. To allow the machine to properly foll

GKB Sandfillers And Sandspreaders

ow the contours of the ground, three adjustable depth rollers are used while a slitting rotor, situated between conveyor rollers, operates the aerating and slitting actions. Two conveyor rollers are pivoted to distribute weight efficiently and material removed from the top layer by verticutting is immediately collected in a sideways tipping container. The sand flow is controlled hydraulically by means of an adjustable valve situated on the side of the machine.

In areas on the golf course where surface water and moss formation are a problem, the Sandfiller offers a fast solution for drainage and intensive aeration. Aeration of the top layer is economically and environmentally friendly, being cost-effective through the all-in-one combination of aeration and sand filling. Intensive aeration of the grass leads to quicker recovery, greater green longevity and faster drainage of surface water, without the need for complete renovation.

To find out more, visit www.gkbmachines.com or call 07495883617

For the latest industry news visit turfnews.co.uk

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters.

Först Woodchipper Distribution Expands Into Belgium 

in , /by

Först Woodchipper Distribution Expands Into Belgium: Redwood Global, manufacturer of Först woodchippers, has now expanded distribution of its market leading range of high performance and robust woodchippers into Belgium following a period of significant growth.  Först Woodchipper Distribution Expands Into Belgium 

After recently setting up strategic dealer partnerships with industry experts in Germany, France, Norway and Denmark, Först has agreed a new deal with Espritt bvba that will see arboricultural sales specialists solely distribute the manufacturers machines throughout Belgium.

Espritt bvba will distribute Först’s premium range of 6” and 8” wheeled, tracked and PTO woodchippers, all of which have a three year warranty as standard, offering tree surgeons, arborists and contractors complete peace of mind. The machines distributed will include Först’s new sub 750kg ST6P petrol powered woodchipper that complies with the Stage V emissions regulations coming into force in 2019.

Doug Ghinn, Director at Först, commented: “Since the introduction of the Först brand over four years ago, we have worked very hard to develop a reputation for manufacturing and supplying products that produce outstanding chipping performance and reliability, backed up by a first class service offering.

“This hard worked has paid off and has helped us cement our position in the UK as a leading manufacturer of fast and aggressive woodchippers, and its great to see demand for our machinery beginning to grow throughout Europe.

“We are very excited to be distributing Först woodchippers throughout Belgium and we are already starting to see a positive impact on the markets, which will only help our business to continue to grow.”

For the latest industry news visit turfnews.co.uk

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters.

New Grounds Maintenance Contract Announced For GreenFields 

in , /by

New Grounds Maintenance Contract Announced For GreenFields: World Rugby Preferred Turf Producer, GreenFields has announced a new partnership with one of England’s oldest clubs, Clifton Rugby Football Club, formed in 1872.

New Grounds Maintenance Contract Announced For GreenFields 

Clifton RFC who play in the fourth tier of the English Rugby Union System, the National League 2 South, have three natural grass pitches at their Cribbs Causeway site which the GreenFields Grounds Team is now responsible for.

Wyn Tingley, Chairman at Clifton RFC commented: “Players and supporters remember the grass they play on- lush, verdant and inviting- it underlines the rugby being played. It enhances the game and provides the background for those watching to enjoy. I’ve been impressed with the way GreenFields have approached our pitch maintenance and look forward to having a pitch that will be remembered by all.”

The specialist team from GreenFields kickstarted their work at Clifton RFC by carrying out essential pre-season renovations to the main pitch, successfully enhancing the surface to make it rugby ready. Following these initial renovations, a complete maintenance package is now in full flow to retain and further improve the pitch ensuring it stands up to the high level of play required.

GreenFields work across the UK with a number of sports clubs and educational establishments designing, installing and maintaining artificial, hybrid and natural grass pitches. The GreenFields Grounds Team is already responsible for several high profile sites including dual use facility- the Ricoh Arena and League One’s Oxford United FC pitch at The Kassam Stadium. Further adding strength to their portfolio, the GreenFields Grounds Team have also just undertaken a new maintenance contract at The Lensbury Hotel, Teddington- a 5 star, elite training facility for top international and domestic rugby teams.

Paul Milton, Director of GreenFields commented: “We are delighted that Clifton RFC have selected GreenFields for their new grounds maintenance contract, we are looking forward to developing this relationship and working more closely with the club.”

Bristol RFC also train on another pitch at the same site and play their pre-season friendlies on Clifton’s XV pitch maintained by GreenFields.

With Clifton RFC’s new season ready to begin, the GreenFields Grounds Team will be working hard to ensure the pitch is match ready and in top form before each fixture.

For the latest industry news visit turfnews.co.uk

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters.

Kubota UK Launches New Domestic Zero Turn Ride-On Mower

in , /by

Kubota UK launches new domestic zero turn ride-on mower: One of the UK’s leading manufacturers of groundcare equipment, Kubota UK, continues to make a significant impact in the residential market with the launch of its new zero turn ride-on mower, extending its well established domestic range.Kubota UK Launches New Domestic Zero Turn Ride-On Mower

The Z122R is Kubota’s new zero turn ride-on mower designed for the domestic market, utilising the proven technology, quality and performance that professionals have come to expect in Kubota products.

Specifically designed to complete 360° turns on the spot, the Z122R offers homeowners unlimited flexibility and manoeuvrability around tight obstacles and complex landscapes, whilst the 42” cutting deck covers large surface areas quickly and efficiently.

Adrian Langmead, Groundcare Business Development Manager for Kubota UK, said: “Following the fantastic response of our residential GR1600 Series ride-on mowers, we wanted to offer consumers a wider range of machinery that enables them to achieve a first-class finish with ease. The Z122R reflects our continued commitment to developing and manufacturing high-quality machinery for both commercial and residential users.”

Ergonomically designed with a gardener’s comfort in mind, the Z122R features a high-backed cushion seat and extra legroom for maximum comfort, whilst the two levers for steering and acceleration are simple and convenient to use.

The Z122R retails at £3450(+VAT) and comes with a 4-year/300-hour warranty.
For more information on Kubota and to find your nearest groundcare dealer, visit www.kubota.co.uk or call 01844 268000.

For the latest industry news visit turfnews.co.uk

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters.

GKB Sandfiller for Moor Allerton GC

in , /by

GKB Sandfiller for Moor Allerton GC: Keeping the golf course in prime condition year-round is always a challenge. Scarifying and sand filling are the perfect combination for improving and maintaining a good drainage system.

GKB Sandfiller for Moor Allerton GC

A factor Moor Allerton Golf Club, near Wike in North Leeds, readily took into consideration when ordering a GKB SandFiller. With a stated objective of providing a golfing experience second to none in the county of Yorkshire, this friendly club blends beautifully with the Yorkshire countryside and many famous players have walked its fairways. What was a key factor for the club in choosing the GKB SandFiller was the speed with which it operates, combining scarifying, removal and sand filling in one machine. Consequently it only needs one person to carry out the work and large areas can be covered in much less time.

“The GKB SandFiller has allowed us to efficiently perform an intensive renovation procedure in half the time, and with less staff, but more importantly without compromising the result.” Says Adam Matthews, Moore Allerton’s Course Manager. “The fact the machine can be used as a stand-alone scarifier, as well as a sand filler was a big factor in us deciding to purchase one. The SandFiller has now become a vital piece of equipment in helping us reduce and maintain organic matter levels.”

The SandFiller works on much the same principle as GKB’s proven Combinator, with a slitting rotor using carbide scarifying blades and the blade attachment creating wind in order to lift the removed material. The blades remove thatch down to a 4cm depth and the material is distributed to a sideways tipping container, removing as well the need to brush and dispose of the material.

The sand hopper is then filled with dried sand which is immediately applied after the area has been scarified, by means of a broad, hydraulically powered sand conveyer belt and stainless steel sand fill unit. With the scarified areas immediately filled the upper layer can remain stable and well-drained. The speed of the operation means the fairways and greens can be brought very quickly back into play. With 27 holes on 220 acres of undulating Yorkshire landscape to maintain, that is naturally a major consideration for Moor Allerton Golf Club.

To find out more, visit: www.gkbmachines.com

For the latest industry news visit turfnews.co.uk

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters.

County cricket Match Abandoned After Seagulls Cause Damage

in , /by

County cricket Match Abandoned After Seagulls Cause Damage: The opening day of a county cricket match had to be abandoned after seagulls caused thousands of pounds worth of damage to covers leaving the pitch waterlogged.

County cricket Match Abandoned After Seagulls Cause Damage

Somerset County Cricket Club were due to host Essex in a second team game, but were forced to cancel the first day due to a wet outfield.

Club groundsman Rob Hake revealed play was cancelled after greedy gulls tore through the covers in their search for worms.

He tweeted: “Sadly seagulls attacking sheets causing the run up to get waterlogged.

“Seagulls cost 1000s of £ worth of damage on ground sheets regularly.”

The three-day game, which was due to get under way on Monday, was being played at Taunton Vale Cricket Ground, in Taunton, Somerset, which is used by the cricket club’s second eleven.

Mr Hake and his team had laid the covers on the pitch the day before the match started, as rain was forecast, but the section covering the bowler’s run up was damaged overnight by seagulls and water seeped through.

Former England opening batsman Marcus Trescothick is part of the Somerset side, along with first team stars Peter Trego, Tom Abell and Jack Leach.

In a statement, Somerset County Cricket Club said: “Somerset Second XI were due to be in Championship action today on day one of a three-day match against Essex at Taunton Vale Sports Club.

“Unfortunately no play was possible on the opening day due to a wet outfield.” Somerset CCC deputy head groundsman Mr Hake said: “When the covers are laid over the pitch, wind can get underneath them causing them to ripple.

“I think that movement attracts the seagulls because they think that there are worms moving around under them.

“So to get at what they think is under there, they come down and peck at the sheets, ripping holes in them.

“And the way they are made, once there is a hole in the covers they rip very easily.

“To give you an idea of cost, we have just had to spend £12,000 on new covers at our main county ground because they had been damaged by seagulls.

“I don’t know if they think it’s some sort of game, but they are very aggressive and cause a lot of damage to the sheets.

“Some people may suggest getting a bird of prey to put them off, but it would only work for a little while.

“As soon as the seagulls realise the bird of prey is gone, they will be back again. There’s no stopping it.”

To read the original article from Express, click here

For the latest industry news visit turfnews.co.uk

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters.

Visit Makita UK At SALTEX 2017

in , /by

Visit Makita UK At SALTEX 2017: Makita UK will be returning to Saltex this year which takes places at the NEC in Birmingham 1-2 November 2017.  Makita will be on stand K190d within the BALI Zone.

Visit Makita UK At SALTEX 2017

The BALI Zone features and promotes leading BALI Registered Affiliate and Contractor members.  Also confirmed for 2017 are Boningale Nurseries, M&M Timber, Green-tech, Ground Control and British Sugar TOPSOIL.

The Makita UK stand will showcase the ever-growing garden machinery range suitable for professional landscaping contractors, groundsmen and forestry workers.

“We are delighted to be joining the BALI Zone at this year’s Saltex and to be teaming up with other leading names in the landscaping industry,” says Mark Earles, Business Development Manager, Makita UK.  “Our cordless range will be taking centre stage but visitors will be able to learn about the entire range including our petrol and electric models.”

The 18v battery platform makes it economically viable for the tool owner as there is the option to purchase the ‘body only’ version of the tool if you already have the battery.   This battery platform has set an industry benchmark but still continues to expand with innovations such as the twin-18v battery 36v application.

Using battery powered grounds care machines means that exhaust emissions are zero – petrol engine exhaust fumes are eliminated and the risk of ground contamination from spilt petrol and oil is removed altogether. Many Makita grounds-care machines offer a considerable reduction in vibration and can be used all day without harm to the operator.  Where traditional machines make an awful noise, the battery powered Makita tools are significantly quieter whilst still delivering a professional performance. This quiet approach means teams can work around parks, schools, hospitals and cemeteries without causing nuisance and annoyance.

SALTEX is the UK’s national event for grounds care, sports turf, amenities, estates and green space management, as well as turf care and specialist machinery, landscaping and playgrounds.  Free to visit, SALTEX is the UK’s biggest event for the grounds care sector.  Register here www.iogsaltex.com/visitor-registration

For the latest industry news visit turfnews.co.uk

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters.

Toro Puts Thorndon Park In Pole Position For Centenary

in , /by

Toro Puts Thorndon Park In Pole Position For Centenary: With its Centenary year on the horizon in 2020, Thorndon Park continues to invest in Toro to ensure it sees in its new century in pole position. 

Toro Puts Thorndon Park In Pole Position For Centenary

The 18-hole golf club in Essex has been using Toro since 2007 and its most recent order consists of three Reelmaster 3575-D fairway mowers and a Workman HDX-D. The machines joined an extensive Toro fleet at the parkland course which appears in the UK’s Top 100 Golf Courses list.

Robert George, course manager since 2005, says these machinery choices were made with preparation for the Centenary in mind. “This will of course be a big milestone for the club. Our members demand a high-level of presentation at all times and with the club’s 100th anniversary coming up we may well make course alterations. The latest Toro order means we’re almost 100 percent Toro, putting us in the best position possible to maintain the course and prepare for any additional jobs a big event such as a Centenary brings.”

This the fourth Toro leasing agreement Robert has arranged, and he says it was the easiest of them all. “We have not had one issue with our Toro machines in all the time we’ve been using them, so this was an easy sell. In fact, this was the first time I didn’t need to go through a competitor comparison, the management board went with my suggestions for renewing based on how well the brand has proven itself.”

So, what led the decision for Robert to purchase three Reelmaster 3575-D fairway mowers? “Purely their speed,” he says. “We can double cut the entire course inside four hours with the RM3575-D. We don’t interrupt the golfers and it makes cutting the fairways an easy job for everyone.”

This ease of use and nifty movement of the RM3575-D may have something to do with the fact that it is one of Toro’s most lightweight machines, weighing 500lbs less than comparable four-wheel Toro mowers.

And while the quality of the machines has been evident in their reliability and the results they produce, Robert continues to remain impressed with the service and back-up he receives from Reesink Turfcare and rep Richard Freeman, saying he “can’t fault” them.

Robert concludes: “My job is as much about the course condition and presentation as it is about customer satisfaction. With Toro I know that we will not only get the job done, but we will get it done efficiently and to the standards our discerning members expect.”

For more information, visit: reesinkturfcare.co.uk

For the latest industry news visit turfnews.co.uk

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters.

Gabba Groundsman Kevin Mitchell To Step Down

in , /by

Gabba groundsman Kevin Mitchell to step down: Long-serving Gabba curator Kevin Mitchell, who has prepared pitches at the Australian cricket fortress for over 30 years, has said he will step down after the series-opening Ashes Test.

Gabba Groundsman Kevin Mitchell To Step Down

The Brisbane venue has long been acclaimed for the quality of its pitches, which invariably offer pace and bounce for fast bowlers, turn for spinners and the possibility of big totals for batting sides.

‘I’d taken a step back from the physical side of work and engaged in more of a guidance role with the team to see out my contract while helping to recruit my successor,’ Mitchell told Brisbane’s Courier Mail.

‘I want to thank the grounds team for their continual efforts to meet the high standards required and maintaining the culture of having great pride in producing quality playing surfaces.’

Queensland sports minister Mick de Brenni paid tribute to Mitchell for laying the foundation for some of Australia’s most dominant performances.

‘Kevin truly is an icon, and to have kept producing an absolute world-class deck on a ground that’s used all year round has taken a particular talent. So, absolutely, very, very big shoes to fill,’ he said.

Mitchell learned under the wing of his father and former head groundsman Kevin Mitchell Snr, who tended the grounds from 1975-89 before being succeeded by his son.

‘The great West Indies side were out in those days with the four big quicks and Clive Lloyd, Viv Richards and the like… and I just thought, “what a great place to work,”‘ Mitchell said in comments published by state broadcaster ABC.

‘The Gabba is a famous, iconic, historic stadium, and you feel that responsibility to create something that Queenslanders are proud of. You have to love the job – it’s a big part of your life.’

Australia have not lost a Test at the Gabba since 1988, when they were beaten by West Indies, and only two of the last 13 matches have been draws – a sequence that has seen the ground garner the nickname ‘The Gabbatoir’.

Australia play the Ashes series opener on November 23, four years after thrashing England at the same venue by 381 runs when left-arm seamer Mitchell Johnson took nine wickets.

England opening batsman Jonathan Trott’s struggles against the short ball at the Gabba saw him promptly exit the tour with a stress-related illness and Australia went on to whitewash England 5-0.

To read the original article, click here

For the latest industry news visit turfnews.co.uk

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters.

Amateur Sports Pitches Can Win A Premiership Makeover

in , /by

Amateur Sports Pitches Can Win A Premiership Makeover: Amateur sports teams across the country are in with the chance to be able to renovate their pitch to premiership standards!Amateur Sports Pitches Can Win A Premiership Makeover

“Pitch to Play” has been launched by Allett and the Institute of Groundsmanship (the IOG) to find the amateur pitch that is most in need of a makeover, and will award the chosen club with some top of the range groundskeeping equipment worth £3,000, plus a bespoke pitch maintenance programme from the IOG.

Pitch to Play is open to any amateur sports team in the UK that has an under 18s team, no matter what sport.

Allett and the IOG want to recognise the hard work that amateur groundsteams and volunteers are undertaking across the country, often with limited resources and equipment. Pitch to Play champions amateur groundstaff and gives them the opportunity to renovate the pitches that they look after, whilst brightening the future for their club.

Leigh Bowers, sales director at Allett, said: “We know that there is nothing worse than trying to play on a poor-quality sports pitch, and appreciate the hours of hard work that groundsteams and volutneers put in. We are eager to help transform the winner’s grounds into something that not only their team, but also their community, can be proud of.”

“Allett lawnmowers are the best in business for professional groundskeepers. Our machines are used on some of the top premiership pitches and the most famous sports grounds around the world. Pitch to Play gives grassroots teams the chance to win equipment to renovate their pitches which will reap benefits for seasons to come!” he added.

The winner of Pitch to Play will receive £3,000 to be used on the purchase of a new Allett lawnmower to help maintain the pitch to a professional, premiership standard. The runners up will win £500 towards the club kitty and third place will win £250. All prize winners will also receive a tailor-made maintenance programme from the IOG to help maintain the pitch for the future, along with a new kit and pitch side sponsorship.

If you think that your pitch needs some TLC, then visit www.pitchtoplay.co.uk to enter and send in at least three photos, showing why your club deserves to win.

The closing date is 1 November 2017.

For the latest industry news visit turfnews.co.uk

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters.