Kubota Zero-Turn ticks every box for Windsor Holiday Park

Kubota Zero-Turn ticks every box for Windsor Holiday Park

Kubota Zero-Turn ticks every box for Windsor Holiday Park

Gareth Hagan, Owner of Windsor Holiday Park, knows the importance of creating a strong first impression for his guests. That’s why, when it comes to the maintenance of the lawned areas of the site – nestled just outside of Newcastle, County Down – nothing less than a ‘bowling green’ finish is acceptable. Delivering that, alongside significant efficiency and safety benefits and so much more is a ZD1211 from Kubota.

Windsor Holiday Park is proudly a five-star, AA Gold-rated resort, family owned and operated by Gareth, his wife and two children. The commitment to quality extends well beyond hospitality – it’s evident in every blade of grass across their 7-acre site. “The presentation of the grounds is what creates either the right or wrong first impression of someone’s holiday which is why we put so much emphasis on this being perfect” he explains.

Kubota Zero-Turn ticks every box for Windsor Holiday Park

Kubota Zero-Turn ticks every box for Windsor Holiday Park

“I’ve grown up in the industry and was familiar with Kubota, so turned to Laird Grass Machinery when we needed to replace our previous mower. The team at Laird are absolutely first-class. They knew exactly what we needed and, while we knew the specification of the ZD1211 was going to be spot on, its performance has truly exceeded all expectations.”

“We’ve cut our mowing time by 50%.” Gareth expands, “The productivity of this machine is outstanding, and we can navigate between the statics and glamping pods with such ease that the whole job can be done in just half a day in good weather.” The manoeuvrability of the ZD1211 has also made the day-to-day work much safer and simpler. “Before, we had to reverse in and out of pitches, which isn’t ideal with guests and children moving around. Now, we can turn on the spot, so we’re always forward facing with full line of sight.”

From Kubota’s recently expanded Zero-Turn mower range, the ZD1211 prioritises efficiency with a 60” cutting width and hydraulic-lift deck. Its suspension seat means greater comfort and less operator fatigue – something Gareth and his team of wardens appreciate. “Gone are the days of sore backs… The seat is like nothing else on the market, you could literally have it in your living room!”

To reduce the transportation of clippings around the site, Gareth opted to equip the ZD1211 with Kubota’s mulching kit. “We don’t have capacity to lift grass so this keeps both the site clean and the guests happy.”

He concludes, “We’ve now used the ZD1211 for two seasons and the machine continues to impress. The presentation is consistently where we need it to be, the comments we’ve had from guests are incredibly positive and the back up support we’ve had from Laird is second to none – it just ticks every box.”

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Geoff Webb to step down as CEO of the GMA

Geoff Webb to step down as CEO of the GMA

Geoff Webb to step down as CEO of the GMA

The Grounds Management Association (GMA) has today announced that Chief Executive, Geoff Webb, will step down from his role in March 2027, after 21 years leading the organisation.

Geoff Webb to step down as CEO of the GMA

Geoff Webb to step down as CEO of the GMA

Geoff, who has overseen a period of significant growth and transformation for the association and the wider grounds management profession, will remain closely involved with the organisation as a Strategic Advisor to the GMA following his departure as CEO.

Since taking on the role two decades ago, Geoff has played a central role in elevating the profile of grounds management, strengthening professional standards and supporting the development of thousands of grounds professionals and volunteers across sport and amenity sectors.

Under his leadership the association has expanded its membership, developed industry-leading education and training programmes, and strengthened partnerships across sport, government, and the wider facilities sector.

The GMA Board has begun the process of identifying Geoff’s successor and will announce in due course.

Geoff Webb said: “It has been an enormous privilege to lead the Grounds Management Association over the last two decades. During that time, we have seen the profession grow in recognition, capability, and influence.

“I remain deeply committed to the sector and I am pleased that I will continue supporting the GMA and its members as a Strategic Advisor following my time as CEO.”

Martyn Ward, Chair of the GMA Board said: “Geoff has played an instrumental role in shaping the modern grounds management profession. His leadership over the past two decades has positioned the GMA as the leading voice for the sector.

“We are pleased that Geoff will continue to support the organisation in a strategic advisory role following his tenure as CEO.”

Geoff will remain CEO until March 2027, ensuring continuity for the organisation and its members during the leadership transition.

Further announcements regarding the next Chief Executive will be made in due course.

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