Turf News is the perfect place for professionals working within the UK’s vibrant turf industry – keeping you up-to-date with topical news, latest market developments and much more across all areas of the industry.
NEWS ARTICLES
STIHL GB Launches Competition for Britain’s Biggest Fan

STIHL GB Launches Competition for Britain’s Biggest Fan

/in , /by

STIHL GB Launches Competition for Britain’s Biggest Fan

STIHL GB has launched the ‘STIHL 100 Fan Award’ competition as part of its global centenary celebrations. The exclusive Instagram competition, which closes on 26th June, turns the spotlight on the brand’s loyal fans and invites STIHL enthusiasts to compete for the title of ‘STIHL’s biggest fan’, with big prizes to be won.

STIHL GB Launches Competition for Britain’s Biggest Fan

STIHL GB Launches Competition for Britain’s Biggest Fan

How to enter STIHL’s 100 Fan Award competition

To enter, participants must share a photo or video on their Instagram page showcasing their passion for the STIHL brand. Entries must tag @stihlgb and use the hashtag #biggestSTIHLfan to be in with a chance of winning.

Entries can feature anything from vintage tools, creative projects and restoration works, to tattoos or stories that demonstrate a passion for the world’s best-selling petrol chainsaw brand.

Once the competition deadline has passed, a panel of judges will review entries based on creativity, skill, and passion, with one winner and five runners-up to be announced in early July.

STIHL 100 Fan Award competition prizes 

The winner of STIHL GB’s 100 Fan Award will receive a limited centennial edition MS 500i, the brand’s flagship high-performance petrol chainsaw. Runners up will each receive a STIHL merchandise bundle worth at least £100 RRP.

The winning entry will also progress to a worldwide competition, where three global winners will receive an all expenses paid trip to STIHL’s HQ in Germany, which includes attendance at the 2026 STIHL TIMBERSPORTS® World Championship.

A century of STIHL 

The 2026 competition is part of a range of initiatives taking place across STIHL’s global network to mark 100years of craftmanship, innovation, and community. Since 1926, STIHL has defined the global standard for battery and petrol-powered forestry, landscaping, and home gardening equipment.

Built to make work in nature easier, STIHL began as a one-man operation in a Stuttgart workshop. Today, the family-owned company celebrates its centennial by continuing to lead innovation across both petrol and battery-powered technologies.

For more information about the competition, including all terms and conditions, please visit: https://www.stihl.co.uk/en/100-years-fan-award

Find out more about STIHL’s historic milestone here: https://100.stihl.com

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

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

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram 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

Alternative approach to maintenance at St Ives Golf Club

Alternative approach to maintenance at St Ives Golf Club

/in , /by

Alternative approach to maintenance at St Ives Golf Club

St Ives (Hunts) Golf Club in Cambridgeshire has taken a significant step forward in its long-term turfcare maintenance and sustainability strategy with the introduction of five Toro Turf Pro 500 autonomous mowers.

Alternative approach to maintenance at St Ives Golf Club

Alternative approach to maintenance at St Ives Golf Club

Course Manager Rob Duff explains how the investment will help increase the mowing programme, improve efficiencies and support sustainability goals.

“We wanted to increase our mowing frequency while maintaining consistent quality, but the reality is that routine tasks like fairway mowing can be costly and time-consuming to deliver,” he says. “This technology gives us a smarter, more efficient way to maintain high standards while managing workloads and keeping costs under control for our members.”

The move to autonomous mowing is transforming daily operations, allowing the team to maintain the fairways continuously throughout the week.

“The robot mowers give us the ability to cut grass seven days a week, 365 days a year,” Rob continues. “Now, when we arrive at work on Monday mornings, the fairways have already been cut. It gives us a head start, freeing up valuable staff time. But really the biggest benefit for golfers will be the extra attention we can now give to areas that previously had less focus especially during peak growing periods.”

While initially deployed on fairways overnight, Rob is already exploring broader applications for the technology. “We’ve started using the mowers on clubhouse lawns during the day, and we’re looking at extending their use to first cuts of rough and larger surrounds. It’s exciting to see how far we can push the capability of these machines.”

With nearly three decades at St Ives, Rob says autonomous technology is an important step forward for the club – and the industry – especially when it comes to meeting sustainability objectives.

“We’ve had solar panels installed and the power from those charges the mowers, meaning we are effectively charging them at no cost while also reducing both fuel use and emissions,” he explains.

The installation of the robotic mowers was completed in just three days, supported by Toro distributor Reesink Turfcare and was “straightforward,” says Rob.

“Once the charging stations were in place, programming was simple: you’re essentially telling the mower where to go and what to do. The rest of it works out for itself.

“The training provided by Reesink’s Digital and GeoLink Specialist, Lee Rowbotham during installation was clear and easy to follow and overall, we’ve been really impressed with the reliability and performance of the mowers, as well as the level of technical and aftersales support from Reesink.”

Julian Copping, Retail Sales for Reesink Turfcare East Anglia who brokered the deal, says: “St Ives is a forward-thinking club and the move to autonomous mowing reflects its ethos to be strategic and smart with its resources and long-term turfcare maintenance plans.”

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

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

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram 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

STIHL launches powerful brushcutters for demanding landscaping operations

STIHL launches powerful brushcutters for demanding landscaping operations

/in , , /by

STIHL launches powerful brushcutters for demanding landscaping operations 

STIHL has launched two new battery-operated brushcutters, engineered to deliver a high-power cutting performance in demanding landscaping environments. Replacing the FSA 135 and FSA 135 R, the new FSA 140 and FSA 140 R offer professionals’ excellent comfort and control for maximum productivity across various cutting tasks.

STIHL launches powerful brushcutters for demanding landscaping operations

STIHL launches powerful brushcutters for demanding landscaping operations

With a mechanical output of 1.0.kW and a large mowing diameter, the machines provide lightweight power for daily commercial use, weighing in at just 4.5KG (exc. battery). Boasting a compact motor and drive, the brushcutters offer a weight reduction of up to 400g compared to previous STIHL models.

The FSA 140 is a bike-handled professional brushcutter fitted as standard with the GrassCut 260-2, the machine can also be used with STIHL’s BrushCut Brush Knife 250 (3mm) and WoodCut saw blades for efficient large-area clearing tasks.

Fitted as standard with the AutoCut C 26-2, the FSA 140 R offers a loop-handle set up, designed for maximum manoeuvrability and precision, allowing users to work comfortably around obstacles and in confined spaces. STIHL’s AutoCut 27-2 and PolyCut 28-2 can also be attached to the FSA 140 R for landscapers requiring more energy-efficient operations.

Both models feature new ergonomic control handles, which provide separate buttons for power activation and three speed levels for ease of use. The new STIHL brushcutters also come with an LED display built in to support clear and easy tool monitoring whilst on the job. When powered with the recommended AP 300 S, the machines deliver a running time of between 22 – 45 minutes.

The FSA 140 and FSA 140 R are designed to support integration with STIHL’s Connected system, a digital fleet management solution that helps professionals keep track of their tools, servicing schedules, and machine use. To further support professionals, the tool’s splash-proof design makes it ideal for use in all weather conditions.

The new designs arrive as STIHL celebrates its 100th anniversary. Since 1926, STIHL has defined the global standard for battery and petrol-powered forestry, landscaping, and residential gardening equipment for professional and domestic users.

For more information on STIHL products, visit www.stihl.co.uk or contact your nearest STIHL Approved Dealer.

Find out more about STIHL’s historic milestone, here: https://100.stihl.com

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

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

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram 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

Florida Golf Club's Quest in Syngenta Docuseries

Florida Golf Club’s Quest in Syngenta Docuseries

/in , /by

Florida Golf Club’s Quest in Syngenta Docuseries

The pursuit of a never-before-achieved level of environmental excellence in global golf is the subject of a new episode of Syngenta’s YouTube docuseries, The Green Report.

Florida Golf Club's Quest in Syngenta Docuseries

Florida Golf Club’s Quest in Syngenta Docuseries

Collier’s Reserve Country Club in Southwest Florida, is vying to become the first ever facility to be recognized with Audubon Platinum Signature Sanctuary certification. The status represents the highest possible acknowledgment of a club’s community-wide commitment to sustainable practices and biodiversity.

In 1994, Collier’s Reserve made history as the first-ever Audubon Signature Sanctuary. Over 30 years later, the club is attempting to break new ground again. The episode follows Superintendent Ken Kleinedler who describes a passion for environmental stewardship that has seen the club become a safe haven for the native Gopher Tortoise.

“At one stage they were on the endangered species list,” Ken explains to host Gary Firkins. Now, Gopher Tortoises and their burrows are a common sight across the golf course, as the club works actively to help the population thrive.

“We teamed up with the Conservancy of Southwest Florida and whenever they need to rehome a local Gopher Tortoise they give us a call. We do that multiple times throughout the year,” Ken explains.

Elsewhere, host Gary Firkins explores the property-wide pollinator program and meets resident bird expert, Brian Beckner, to see how the club ensures native, diverse bird populations flourish.

Lastly, Gary speaks with Club Association Manager, Greg Anderson, who describes the sympathetic development of the club and residential community – and what makes it different.

Mark Birchmore, Global Head of Marketing, Turf & Landscape for Syngenta, said: “Collier’s Reserve is a pioneering example of how residential golf developments can support biodiversity and encourage wildlife to flourish.

“More than that, it demonstrates the role golf courses can play in providing essential safe havens for endangered species and working in partnership with local organizations to make a positive contribution.”

The new episode will be released at 12PM ET / 5PM CET today, and will be free-to-watch for all golf industry professionals and stakeholders on YouTube.

To watch all episodes of The Green Report and for more news, features, videos and case studies on sustainable golf, as well as links to the Changing the Business of Golf podcast, visit Syngenta Golf.

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

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

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram 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

Agrovista fertilisers support Hamilton Racecourse

Agrovista fertilisers support Hamilton Racecourse

/in , /by

Agrovista fertilisers support Hamilton Racecourse

Maintaining a consistent, high-quality racing surface is a year-round challenge at Hamilton Park Racecourse, but Head Groundsman Prentis Russell believes a well-planned nutrition programme, supported by Agrovista Amenity, is helping the track perform at its best.

Agrovista fertilisers support Hamilton Racecourse

Agrovista fertilisers support Hamilton Racecourse

Prentis joined the racecourse around eight months ago, stepping into his first head groundsman role after more than a decade in the industry.

“I spent 11 years at Ayr Racecourse before coming here,” he explains. “It was my first ever job and I just fell in love with racing and the work that comes with it. I’m not from a racing background originally, but once I started, I knew it was something I wanted to do.”

During his time at Ayr, Prentis gained his Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications, which enabled him to progress into management. When the opportunity arose at Hamilton, he was encouraged to take the next step.

“My previous boss said to me, ‘Go for it, it’s your next step.’ And it’s been amazing so far. This is my first head groundsman role, and it’s been a brilliant challenge.”

Hamilton presents a unique test for turf management. Unlike many race courses, its layout includes several different start positions and a testing uphill finish, placing varying demands on the surface throughout the track. The soil profile also differs from his previous role.

“At Ayr, the soil profile was sandy because it’s a coastal course. Here at Hamilton, it’s more clay-based, so it holds a lot more moisture. That means we’re always thinking about drainage and how we manage the surface through the year.”

With a four-person team responsible not only for the racecourse but also surrounding grounds and facilities, efficiency and reliability are key. Since arriving at Hamilton, Prentis has worked closely with Agrovista Amenity technical sales manager Stewart Carbray to build a structured fertiliser programme tailored to the track.

“The relationship with Agrovista started when I came in,” he explains. “Stewart had already been helping the team before I arrived, supplying fertiliser, grass seed and advice. I’ve definitely made use of that knowledge since coming in.”

Prentis now works with Stewart to plan seasonal applications, using a range of fertilisers from Agrovista’s Absolute Premier and Evolution Naturelle ranges to support turf health throughout the year.

Spring and summer nutrition is built around products such as Absolute Premier 12-6-6 and Absolute Premier 20-10-10, mini-granular compound fertilisers designed to deliver balanced nutrient input and consistent growth across large turf areas.

“The products are performing amazingly,” says Prentis. “We’re getting really good coverage and response from them, which is exactly what we need on a surface like this.”

The programme continues into the autumn with Evolution Naturelle Sport Autumn 7-0-21, an organo-mineral fertiliser that provides a gradual nutrient release while supporting soil biology and turf strength heading into winter.

“After racing we applied our autumn feed, which is a slow-release product,” Prentis explains. “It’s worked right through the winter for us. The grass coverage out there is amazing, and the colour is looking really good.”

Hamilton stages 18 fixtures between May and September, after which the team enters a renovation and recovery phase before winter conditions arrive.

“We’ll put the track to bed after the season and try to get as much work done as possible before the weather turns,” says Prentis. “The fertiliser programme really helps keep the turf healthy through that period.”

Beyond the products themselves, Prentis says the support he receives from Agrovista is equally valuable

“Stewart is a massive help,” he says. “If there’s an issue or something I need, I can just contact him, and he’ll always manage to help me out. Whether it’s fertiliser, seed or advice, he’s always able to guide me in the right direction.”

For Prentis, having a reliable partner makes a demanding job a little easier.

“It’s good knowing you’ve got someone you can call for guidance,” he adds. “The products perform well, and the support behind them makes a big difference.”

For more information about Agrovista UK, visit https://amenity.agrovista.co.uk/

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

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

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram 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