Suståne supports sustainability goals of Mjölby Golfklubb

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Suståne supports sustainability goals of Mjölby Golfklubb: GEO Certified and described as an ‘outstanding role model for sustainability in golf’, Sweden’s Mjölby Golfklubb provides an interesting mix of nine holes played on open former-farmland and nine holes in dense parkland – all maintained to the highest environmental standards. An important part of this is a nutritional programme orientated around organics – more specifically, 6-2-4 Turf Revival® and 5-2-4+Fe from Suståne.   

Sustainability is a priority across many aspects of the club operation, a philosophy shared and implemented by Course Manager Peter Ihrebrink and the greenkeeping team of four. The work to protect and develop nature and community, while being sympathetic to water, energy and material resources has seen Mjölby highly ranked in a number of global golf club awards, including in the ‘International’ category of the highly prestigious ‘Golf Environment Awards’.

Suståne supports sustainability goals of Mjölby Golfklubb

Suståne supports sustainability goals of Mjölby Golfklubb

“We had been using organic fertilisers for a number of years before making the switch to Suståne – a decision we made after thorough discussion with our local distributor CropHealth AB” describes Peter. “After conducting soil analysis we settled on a programme of two or three applications of Suståne 6-2-4 Turf Revival® during the main growing season, followed by one application of 5-2-4+Fe to provide an extra boost of nutrients and long-lasting slow-release nitrogen as we head into the winter months.”

Suståne Turf Revival® 6-2-4 is designed to replenish the soil with a rich supply of humus and mycorrhizal fungi, to improve the uptake of nutrients and boost overall plant health. Particularly beneficial for us around renovations or intensive maintenance, the mix of macro and micronutrients contributes towards optimal plant establishment and quick green-up, followed by up to eight weeks of uniform growth and colour.

“This is something we have certainly noticed – that we achieve greener grass without the lateral growth creating a healthier turf surface that looks and performs better.” In addition, Peter notes the reduction in disease activity the team have noticed since switching to Suståne. “Overall we have also seen a decrease in disease activity, though the ever-changing climate does mean we are constantly monitoring this.”

He adds, “We really value the advice and close working relationship we have with CropHealth AB who conduct regular soil samples to make sure the programme is on track and delivering the results we expect. We are seeing improvements in the composition of our profile which is giving us the strong foundation we need to support more sustainable grass species and create top-level playing surfaces without the need for artificial chemicals or products.”

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The Workhorse Behind Toberona Stables’ Success

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The Workhorse Behind Toberona Stables’ Success: For Paul Nolan and his team at Toberona Stables in Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford, the Avant 423 compact loader has proven to be an indispensable asset in managing their busy equine operations.

Specialising in training racehorses, Toberona Stables accommodates over 60 horses in training, with an additional 50-60 horses on-site for resale. The farm transitioned from sheep and tillage farming to a full-fledged racing yard just a few decades ago, and the Avant 423 has been essential to their ongoing success.

The Workhorse Behind Toberona Stables’ Success

The Workhorse Behind Toberona Stables’ Success

“We’ve been doing this for 30 years now,” explains Paul. “We used to farm sheep and do tillage, but we decided to make the switch to horses. We are now a full horse farm with a training yard, focusing exclusively on racehorses.” With such a busy operation, efficiency is key, and the Avant 423 has become essential in helping the team streamline daily tasks.

The Avant 423, a compact and highly versatile compact loader, is used extensively throughout the year at Toberona Stables. The machine’s hydrostatic drive system, with just a forward and reverse pedal, makes it incredibly easy to operate, even for those without prior machinery experience.

“We had heard about the Avant and saw one in action, and we really liked what we saw,” says Paul. “We had another machine here before, and it wasn’t nearly as versatile. It was awkward to use, and compared to the Avant, it didn’t match up at all. Now, we couldn’t imagine managing without the Avant. It’s the best machine we’ve ever had on the farm.”

The Avant 423’s compact size makes it ideal for manoeuvring in tight spaces, such as in the stables or along narrow pathways, yet it packs enough power to perform a range of tasks efficiently.

“We use the Avant for a whole range of duties,” Paul notes. “We use it for feeding the horses, pulling trailers with hay, loading barrows with wood chips or shavings, and sweeping the yard. It does a lot of hours every day and is used 365 days a year without fail.”

One of the standout features of the Avant 423 is its versatility, made even more efficient by its range of attachments. Paul and his team use several attachments to tackle the different tasks required on a horse farm.

“We have a brush, a bucket, and a grab,” explains Paul. “The grab is great for mucking out the stables. The brush attachment is a game changer—it sweeps the entire yard and deposits everything into the dung heap. It doesn’t leave anything behind.”

Before acquiring the Avant, the team used other equipment, such as road sweepers, but none proved as effective as the Avant’s brush attachment.

“Before, one man would need a whole day to sweep the yard,” Paul recalls. “We had brushes on the back of the tractor, but they didn’t work half as well as the Avant. It does the work of 3-4 men and gets the job done in no time.

Paul also credits Ferrybridge, the authorised Avant dealer, for providing exceptional service and support. When Ferrybridge first became an Avant dealer, Paul was the first to purchase an Avant machine in the area, and he has never looked back.

“Service is crucial, especially these days when it’s hard to get people round for repairs or maintenance,” Paul says. “Having a good dealer like Ferrybridge has been a blessing. Any issues we’ve had have been resolved within a day, and their service is always first-class. We know we can always count on them.”

The Avant 423 isn’t just about feeding horses and cleaning stables. Paul’s team also uses it for specialised tasks like maintaining the gallops, which are crucial for the horses’ training.

“We use an electric sprayer, which we put in the bucket on the Avant,” says Paul. “We use it to spray the sides of the gallops to control weeds. It’s so easy to drive along with the Avant and spray.”

The Avant 423 has proven itself as a vital tool at Toberona Stables. Its combination of power, versatility, and ease of use has made it the go-to machine for a variety of tasks that keep the yard running smoothly. For Paul and his team, the Avant is more than just a piece of equipment—it’s an essential part of their daily operations.

For more information, please visit www.avanttecno.com/uk

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Husqvarna signs deal with DP World Tour

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Husqvarna signs deal with DP World Tour: Husqvarna, a global leader in outdoor power products and cutting-edge robotic mowers, has signed a partnership with the DP World Tour – Golf’s Global Tour – as it becomes an official partner to the Amgen Irish Open and the Betfred British Masters.

The multi-year partnership will see Husqvarna’s brand and products, including its CEORA®, Automower® 580L EPOS®, Automower® 550 EPOS® and Automower® 535 AWD EPOS® feature across on-course and digital branding, product showcases in tournament villages and hospitality platforms at the two events – which make-up part of the Tour’s iconic “Back 9”- a series of its most historic events.

Husqvarna signs deal with DP World Tour

Husqvarna signs deal with DP World Tour

Beyond the two staple tournaments, Husqvarna also becomes a Corporate Partner to the BMW International Open on the Tour’s European Swing until the end of the 2027 season, as it strengthens its footprint across the golfing landscape.

Max Hamilton, Executive Commercial Director of the DP World Tour, said: “We are delighted that Husqvarna have continued to bolster their significant investment into the game of golf with the DP World Tour. As an organisation that is at the top of its game in the field of grass maintenance, and that is already supporting many of the best clubs in Europe and across the world, it is a perfect fit for Golf’s Global Tour, where leading talent from around the world get to compete on some of the best stages in golf.”

Samantha Donnelly, Senior Marketing Manager at Husqvarna said: “As world-leaders in the space of robotic mowers, we’re committed to helping people make time for what matters through our cutting-edge innovation. Whether that’s our professional range that opens more time for greenkeepers, or our residential models, that automatically cut the lawn to perfection – great for golfers looking to spend more time with their family, or out on the course

We’re also committed to supporting the game of golf, so we’re incredibly excited to see our connection to the game growing – whether that’s through the courses we supply, or those we partner with. We’re thrilled to announce this partnership, as we take our next step in the sport.

The relationship marks Husqvarna latest commitment to the industry and future in the sport, as it builds on partnerships with some of the game’s most decorated names – including Europe’s most successful golfer and host of the Betfred British Masters, Sir Nick Faldo.

The collaboration with Husqvarna and Sir Nick Faldo looks to build a foundation for the future of golf – including course maintenance, but also for the game itself, with the brand supporting the growth of the Faldo Futures initiative via donations and beyond from May 2025.

The Faldo Futures initiative, which boasts alumni such as five-time major champion Rory McIlroy, is designed to introduce young players to the game of golf, alongside an advanced education program built to enhance their skills.

Sir Nick Faldo said: “As host of the British Masters for nearly 3 years now, it’s an event that’s close to my heart – so it’s brilliant to see Husqvarna partnering with this iconic tournament. What its technology is doing for golf courses is truly changing the game – I’ve heard firsthand how greenkeepers now have more time to spend on other areas of the course, such as the greens, which is driving a real improvement for players. Husqvarna’s support for Faldo Futures is increasingly important too – it’s an initiative that supports young golfing talent, so we’re incredibly proud of it. Having brands such as Husqvarna help foster its growth, is brilliant for the future of the game”

Husqvarna’s long history in providing golf courses with world-leading mower technology, including some of the globe’s most iconic venues, has helped revolutionize course maintenance, while helping reduce emissions and costs associated with the upkeep.

Hero innovations such as the Husqvarna CEORA™s and Automower® 550 EPOS, automatically cut back the rough and other key green spaces on the course, around the pre-planned routes mapped by the greenkeepers – opening more time to perfect the upkeep of the greens, as the brand continues to set the scene for the future of golf course maintenance.

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Having conversations about mental wellbeing is crucial

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Having conversations about mental wellbeing is crucial: Working in this industry is demanding, both mentally and physically, a fact that cannot be ignored. With all the current uncertainties about the future, people’s ability to manage the everyday challenges – from rising prices, increased job insecurity and longer health care waiting lists – is being put to the test.

This uncertainty has, without question, impacted the mental wellbeing of many. In Perennial’s recent comprehensive Wellbeing Research Report 2025 due out mid-May, almost 83% of people within horticulture scored low or average for their wellbeing using a recognised scale 1

Having conversations about mental wellbeing is crucial

Having conversations about mental wellbeing is crucial

Whether florists, garden centre employees, nursery staff or gardeners, greenkeepers and landscapers, both the employed and self-employed are experiencing issues in their daily lives that need to be tackled.

It is essential therefore, that for long-term success across the industry, open conversations about mental wellbeing in the workplace are held and efforts made to identify concerns and put solutions in place.

There are many ways that both employers and employees can raise awareness and take action. To help start the conversation and make sure everyone feels supported and knows that help is on hand, Perennial has developed a number of free resources and tools including:

Free Mental Wellbeing Webinars

Designed with Mental Health First Aid England to help organisations understand more about mental wellbeing and give people the skills and knowledge on how best to support their colleagues in the workplace. There are 2 x different sessions running throughout May – November 2025.

  1. Support your team by having confident conversations about mental health – aimed at Managers, Supervisors or Team Leaders
  2. Do we need a Mental Health First Aiders in our workplace? – aimed at HR and business owners

Free Mental Wellbeing Resource pack

The charity has developed tools and services to help people during life’s challenges which can all contribute to a person’s mental wellbeing. Details of these are included in the pack which can be downloaded and shared within your organisation

Access to Perennial’s MHFA Ambassador Network

Exclusively for people in horticulture who are trained as a Mental Health First Aider, the network meets virtually once a quarter to share knowledge, ideas and best practice

“The horticulture industry is wonderful, but it does have its challenges. We need to support each other in our workplaces to ensure that everyone can access the advice and support they need for positive mental wellbeing.”

Clare Downs, Head of Preventative Services, Perennial

Take action today and start the conversation within your workplace.

Book your place on one of the free webinars and find out more about all the resources above by visiting perennial.org.uk/workplace-wellbeing

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Women in Golf awards return to Foxhills

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Women in Golf awards return to Foxhills: The Women in Golf Awards is delighted to announce that the fourth annual ceremony will take place on November 27th 2025 at Foxhills.

The awards make a return to the Surrey venue following the resounding success of the 2024 event, that included golf tuition and networking opportunities followed by the gala awards ceremony in the evening. With plans to expand the event for 2025, and the overwhelmingly positive feedback from the 2024 awards, Foxhills was a natural choice to host once more.

Women in Golf awards return to Foxhills

Women in Golf awards return to Foxhills

“We couldn’t have been happier with the 2024 awards,” said co-founder of The Women in Golf Awards, Nicole Wheatley. “The team at Foxhills were fantastic to work with and the venue itself provided everything we needed for a wonderful day of networking and celebration. The last 12 months has seen the awards evolve further, and I’m delighted that we can work with Foxhills once again to deliver even more opportunities for everyone who attends.”

2025 has seen the Women in Golf Awards hold its first education day for past winners and nominees in collaboration with Bernhard Academy and Colt, Mackenzie, McNair. The event that was funded via sponsors contributions to the awards’ Women in Golf Fund, provided educational and networking opportunities while contributing to an insight paper identifying factors that prohibit women considering golf as a career.

“In addition to the golf, networking and celebrations that have previously been part of the awards, we are going to expand the educational opportunities on offer,” continued Nicole. “The generosity of our sponsors has allowed us to grow the Women in Golf fund and add personal and educational development opportunities on the day of the awards. The event is becoming a real vehicle for change in the industry and I’m very proud to be helping provide more opportunities for women to progress in their careers.”

“Since 1978, when the club hosted the third ever edition of the Women’s Open, Foxhills has had a strong affinity to supporting women’s golf, so we’re beyond thrilled to host the Women in Golf awards for a second year running, in 2025,” added Marcus Weatherburn, Director of Membership at Foxhills. “The 2024 event was such a positive experience for everyone at the club. To be in the room with so many inspiring women was a real privilege, and to know that we’d helped to make the event such a special occasion was hugely satisfying. Having heard Nicole’s plans for 2025, we’re delighted to be able to provide facilities for every aspect of the day and can’t wait to welcome everyone to Foxhills in November.”

As in previous years, the Women in Golf Fund will provide a number of free tickets for women working in the industry, who might not otherwise be able to attend. These are allocated via a ballot accessed through the website www.womeningolfawards.co.uk.  There will also be a limited number of subsidised tickets available to purchase later in the year. Women interested in these tickets can sign up for priority access on the website.  The 2025 sponsors and awards categories will be announced at the end of July with nominations open from Mid-August.

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