The R&A seeks feedback on Golf Course 2030 initiative

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The R&A seeks feedback on Golf Course 2030 initiative: Greenkeepers and golf club managers now have an opportunity to influence The R&A’s Golf Course 2030 programme, through a survey designed to identify drivers and needs for future sustainable turf management. 

Greenkeepers and golf course managers can take the five-minute survey here.

The R&A seeks feedback on Golf Course 2030 initiative

The R&A seeks feedback on Golf Course 2030 initiative

Golf Course 2030 aims to help golf courses to mitigate the impact of climate change, resource constraints and regulation on course condition and playability, according to The R&A GC2030 Project Manager, John Kemp. It promotes sustainable golf course management practices to ensure the best possible playing conditions for golfers.

“As part of the ongoing development of Golf Course 2030, we need views and feedback from industry stakeholders to assess the impact of what has been offered by the project so far and what is required for the future. That will ensure it continues to provide practical support to course mangers and clubs,” he says.

“Golf Course 2030 supports golf facilities, greenkeepers and industry advisors with essential information to make more informed everyday business decisions on how they manage their turf.

“It is essential that we identify how useful the guidance and resources provided by Golf Course 2030 have been, as well as their influence in helping golf courses and turf managers to make necessary changes in their practices and identifying future needs to inform business development.”

Find out more about The R&A Golf Course 2030 initiative

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Magic million for JCB

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Magic million for JCB: JCB has marked a major manufacturing milestone with the production of its one millionth engine.

Production started in 2004 at JCB Power Systems in Foston, Derbyshire, and expanded to JCB India in 2010 with the opening of a dedicated plant in Ballabgarh, Delhi. From three engines a day 20 years ago, JCB now produces around 500 a day, becoming a world leader in the design, development and manufacture of diesel engines and is now pioneering development of hydrogen combustion engines.

Magic million for JCB

Magic million for JCB

Today JCB Chairman Anthony Bamford paid tribute to the JCB teams around the world who have played a part in the engine’s success. Lord Bamford said: “To have made one million engines in 20 years is quite some achievement. This really is a significant moment for our teams around the world, a real achievement. The JCB engine is very well respected around the world for its reliability and very well appreciated by our customers. JCB machines work in dirt and hot and cold climates, and from the moment they go to a customer, they are working hard and doing a full day’s shift. The engine really is the beating heart of that reputation for reliability.

“It was a major decision at the time to make our own engines and I was directly involved in that; it has paid off and I’m very pleased we made the decision. As we hit the milestone of producing one million engines, the time is right to acknowledge the part my played father in the design, not only of this engine, but other engines which he designed with other people in the past. My father died in 2001 so our engines were running as prototypes by that time, and he had a lot to do with it. I’m thankful he was involved in this engine so many years ago.”

JCB Power Systems’ engines have been instrumental in helping set world records – firstly when the JCB Dieselmax streamliner, powered by two JCB engines, became the fastest diesel-powered car in the world in 2006 when it reached a speed of 350.092mph on the Bonneville Salt Flats, USA – a record that still stands. In 2019, JCB’s Fastrac tractor stormed into the record books as the world’s fastest tractor with a speed of 135.191 mph – thanks to JCB’s 7.2 litre, 6-cylinder Dieselmax engine.

A team of more than 150 engineers is currently engaged in developing hi-tech hydrogen combustion engines for use in JCB machinery as part of a £100 million investment. More than 120 engines have come off the production line so far and many machines powered by these super-efficient engines are currently undergoing evaluation.

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Hampden Park chooses Toro lithium machines

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Hampden Park chooses Toro lithium machines: Electric mowing has arrived at Hampden Park, Scotland’s national stadium, bringing everything Stephen Bache, Head Groundsman, could want from the next generation of turfcare technology.

It was a case of when not if this new way of mowing would arrive at Scotland’s national stadium in Glasgow, and as a long-term Toro machinery and irrigation customer, it’s no surprise the brand trusted to deliver the cutting-edge technology is Toro.

Reducing emissions is a key part of almost all sustainability strategies and with the industry being encouraged to unite in a bid to reduce environmental impact, choosing battery-powered or hybrid machines is one small but significant step now that can result in a huge impact later.

The Toro Greensmaster eTriFlex 3370 lithium-ion battery powered ride-on greensmower is the quietest mower there is and there are no emissions, pollution, or hydraulic leaks. Stephen says: “We want to provide the best possible surface for our players in the most sustainable way, but also, we are keen to play our part in the collective effort to make a credible contribution to the sustainable future for the next generations of football players and fans.

“This latest machinery order sees us continue doing that as we welcome battery powered mowers to our stadium for the first time and that is quite a milestone, but to us it was simply the next logical step and I hope we pave the way for others by demonstrating the capabilities and benefits electric mowing brings to responsible pitch management.”

Despite its new status at the stadium, the benefits are already being widely noticed says Stephen: “Toro quality is second to none. I’ve relied on it for 20 years. I know with Toro we’re going to get everything done right, meet the UEFA standards and conform to the rules reliably, first time around. So, I expected the quality of the cut from the eTriFlex to be outstanding and it is, but what’s stands out is just how convenient this method of mowing is.

“We’re an urban site southside of Glasgow with flats and houses neighbouring the stadium. Residents have been known to complain about mowing noise. The quietness of the eTriFlex almost takes you by surprise, a bit like an electric car when you don’t hear it coming up behind you, you genuinely can’t believe how quiet it is.”

Continuing with the benefits of noiseless mowing, Stephen can confirm how much easier it makes time management on match days: “There’s no rush with filming, interviews and broadcaster set up now, they can take as long as they need, and we work around them if needs be.”

Next up, Stephen can alleviate infrastructure concerns: “It wasn’t a problem for us and unless you’re buying a fleet of them, I can’t imagine it would be for anyone else. They use a standard socket and charge overnight, it’s very straightforward.”

The eTriFlex 3370 is part of a wider order from Toro distributor Reesink Scotland that includes electric utility vehicles, pedestrian mowers, a sprayer and the ProStripe known for its famous sports pitch striping effect.

With Stephen’s term in post at Hampden Park stretching back to 2002, he’s overseen many changes to the famous turf and now he’s presiding over a new era of new technology and mowing practises, and one that will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy.

To make a start on the journey towards reduced emissions, visit Reesink Turfcare at reesinkturfcare.co.uk.

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Toro leads the charge to OPE electrification

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Toro leads the charge to OPE electrification: Drawing on a century of expertise and engineering excellence, Toro has launched the Revolution Series, combining the brand’s proven outdoor power equipment (OPE) expertise with pioneering battery technology.

Aimed at groundskeeping, facilities maintenance, gardening and landscaping professionals, as well as municipal authorities, Toro’s Revolution Series delivers a more sustainable product with like-for-like performance with equivalent petrol or diesel machines.

With other significant benefits to the end user – including less direct exposure to carbon dioxide emissions and reduced noise and vibration – Toro has also launched a campaign promoting the benefits of switching to battery-powered outdoor equipment, called ‘Lead the Charge’.

Anthony Nadalin, director of marketing at The Toro Company said: “As one of the world’s leading manufacturers, we have a responsibility to drive decarbonisation in outdoor power equipment. For Toro, this means leading the charge from the front. We are a passionate advocate for this change and through our extensive range of electric-powered equipment, our focus is to meet the growing demands of outdoor maintenance professionals.”

As a global leader in outdoor power equipment, Toro’s ‘Lead the Charge’ campaign also helps highlight the savings that can be made by switching to all-electric OPE, as well as providing clear and accurate information about pricing and performance.

Lead the Charge aims to help owners and operators of commercial OPE to understand exactly what all-electric OPE can now achieve in terms of performance, sustainability and cost savings.

“By presenting all the information in a factual and user-friendly way, we can help landscaping professionals and municipal authorities to make truly informed decisions,” added Anthony. “Our customers have trusted us for over 100 years and our latest campaign, Lead the Charge, is about Toro repaying that trust by giving them the confidence to transition to cleaner, more cost-effective outdoor power equipment.”

The Revolution Series is easy to maintain and cost-effective to run, lowering the total cost of ownership while contributing to greater business efficiency. For further details, visit https://sites.Toro.com/leadthecharge/index.html.

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Origin wins at Sustainability & Biodiversity Awards

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Origin wins at Sustainability & Biodiversity Awards: Origin Amenity Solutions (OAS) proudly announces its success at the prestigious Pro Landscaper Sustainability & Biodiversity Awards 2024, held on 15th October during the FutureScape event.

OAS won the Sustainable Product (Soft Landscaping) of the Year award for its innovative Carbon4Grass range of grass seed, a product designed to help tackle the dual challenges of environmental sustainability and high-performance landscaping.

Origin wins at Sustainability & Biodiversity Awards

Origin wins at Sustainability & Biodiversity Awards

The Pro Landscaper Sustainability & Biodiversity Awards celebrate excellence across the landscape industry, recognising companies and products that lead the way in sustainability, biodiversity enhancement, and environmental innovation. This year’s ceremony brought together key stakeholders, professionals, and sustainability advocates from across the sector, making it a landmark event for the industry.

Carbon4Grass from OAS was highlighted for its significant contribution to environmental sustainability. This is a pioneering range of grass seed mixtures where each specification is specially formulated to lock carbon from the atmosphere into the soil while providing high-quality surfaces, making it an invaluable tool for those aiming to meet their carbon reduction and sustainability goals. The innovative blend of grass species promotes soil health, supports strong ecosystems, and helps reduce overall carbon footprints in both urban and rural landscapes. Carbon4Grass is tailored for use across all landscape and amenity environments, making it versatile and impactful in enhancing green spaces.

The FutureScape event, where the awards were announced, is one of the most important trade shows in the UK landscaping calendar, attracting over 200 exhibitors and thousands of visitors. The awards recognise the crucial role that sustainable products and practices offer in today’s environmentally conscious world​.

“It’s a privilege to receive this award for our Carbon4Grass range. Sustainability is a key focus at Origin Amenity Solutions, and this recognition shows that our efforts are making a tangible impact. We’re committed to developing products that enhance the health and performance of landscapes and contribute to the environment in meaningful ways. This award is a testament to our team’s hard work and dedication to driving positive change in the sports, amenity, and fine turf sector.”

The Carbon4Grass range was praised for its innovation in addressing the environmental challenges of modern landscaping. It provides long-term solutions to issues such as soil degradation, water retention, and carbon capture. Its sustainability-driven design supports the preservation and restoration of ecosystems, reinforcing OAS’s reputation as a leader in environmentally focused products and programmes.

The Pro Landscaper Sustainability & Biodiversity Awards continue to highlight trailblazers in the industry, spotlighting those committed to shaping a greener, more sustainable future. OAS’s achievement highlights and recognises it as a supplier committed to sustainability innovation.

For more details about the Carbon4Grass range and Origin Amenity Solutions, visit www.originamenity/com

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J & R appointed Powerland dealers

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J & R appointed Powerland dealers: BOSS ORV is pleased to announce the appointment of J & R Agricultural Engineering Ltd. as Powerland dealers. Based in the Looe area of South East Cornwall, J & R were appointed in April 2024 as dealers for the BOSS distributed Corvus Off-Road Vehicles.

The dealer has over thirty years in the industry as a tractor and machinery sales and repair business, latterly incorporating ATV and UTV sales and service. They will now add the Powerland Tachyon all-electric ATV to their line-up.

J & R appointed Powerland dealers

J & R appointed Powerland dealers

“It is a natural extension for Jonathan Philp and the J&R team to sell Powerland,” says Neil Everett, BOSS ORV’s National Sales Manager. “They will provide coverage across Cornwall and South Devon for this exciting new electric ATV.”

The Tachyon is claimed to be one of the fastest ATVs in the world. It offers all the benefits of conventional off-road utility vehicles while ensuring no damage to the environment. The manufacturer says they have the aim of inspiring more companies to fundamentally change the way they operate for a more sustainable future. The Tachyon is a fully electric (Li-ion) road-legal ATV with tractor homologation. Direct drive hub motors help the vehicle achieve up to 50hp and 210Nm of torque at each wheel. Features include a vehicle diagnostic app, 12v lighter socket, 5v USB socket and 4×4/4×2 driving modes.

“We’re very pleased to be appointed as Powerland dealers,” says J&R’s Jonathan Philp. “The Tachyon allows us to offer our customers a real environmentally friendly alternative to fuel-powered ATVs.”

For more information on Powerland you can call 01785 561046 E-mail: sales@bossorv.co.uk Web: www.bossorv.co.uk

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Kubota (UK) announce two strategic appointments

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Kubota (UK) announce two strategic appointments: Kubota (UK) are delighted to announce two strategic appointments – bolstering knowledge and strength both internally and across the dealer network.

John Davis has taken up the position of agricultural and groundcare dealer manager for the south and south west of England, while Matt Wilson joins the marketing team as groundcare product and key account manager for the UK and Ireland.

Kubota (UK) announce two strategic appointments

Kubota (UK) announce two strategic appointments

Passionate about farming and machinery, John has worked in the industry since leaving school, where he enrolled in an apprenticeship scheme with former dealer Tincknells, some 30 years ago. He joins Kubota following eight years with a specialist manufacturer and brings with him considerable experience gained during his most recent role working with self-propelled crop spraying equipment.

“I’m looking forward to being challenged with continual dealer development and brand-building, to introduce Kubota to a much wider audience in the agricultural and groundcare sectors,” said John. “Kubota is a company that is growing and we’re seeing increased interest from the industry for Kubota tractors, loaders, telehandlers and groundcare machinery. It’s a great time to be involved with such a well-respected, global manufacturer.”

Meanwhile, Matt Wilson joins the Kubota (UK) marketing team with more than 20 years of industry knowledge having gained dealership, distribution and manufacturing experience with a variety of businesses involved in the amenity, golf and turf sectors. Matt’s desire for market and product information will be instrumental in his role to further develop the groundcare portfolio, together with working alongside Kubota’s European groundcare product management team.

Matt explains, “I have always wanted to work for a top-tier manufacturer, and joining Kubota is certainly a highlight of my career to-date. Ethically, Kubota’s core disciplines, family values and its honourable nature are values that are close to my heart.”

“There is strong demand for Kubota’s groundcare products, in particular the products from the recent acquisition of Gianni Ferrari.” He adds, “Who wouldn’t want to work for such a well-respected brand, with equipment that sets the industry standard for build quality and reliability?!”

Commenting on the recent appointments, Kubota’s agricultural and groundcare sales manager Tim Yates said: “John’s knowledge provides us with a great opportunity to continue supporting dealers and build on the growth already achieved in the agricultural and groundcare markets. It’s great to have both him and Matt on the team; whose in-depth industry knowledge gives us a strong foundation on which to continue supporting the groundcare sector with market-leading products.”

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Toro’s most popular machines now available

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Toro’s most popular machines now available: Reesink Turfcare, UK distributor of Toro fine turf machinery, is letting customers know that the vast majority – 95 percent – of its popular Toro models are now in stock and available for immediate delivery, with that figure set to reach 100 percent very soon.

Jon Cole, Divisional Business Manager, Reesink Turfcare, says: “We want to thank our customers for their patience and understanding through this post-pandemic period of lingering supply issues and the extended lead times the industry has endured. We appreciate and very much share the frustration this may have caused and value their loyalty to the brand which saw them prepared to wait.

Toro’s most popular machines now available

Toro’s most popular machines now available

“The good news is the wait is over and lead times on machines are tumbling. While extended lead times remain on a very small number of products, through careful planning we are in a position where we can mitigate the effect of these lead times on our customers. We have been working tirelessly through our extensive back orders and are now in a position where we have very nearly caught up. This has left us in the fortunate position of having 95 percent of our most popular machines back in stock and ready for dispatch.”

Examples of some of the most popular machines now available include but are not limited to the Toro Greensmaster TriFlex 3420 hybrid and all-electric eTriflex 3370 greensmowers, the lightweight Reelmaster 3575-D fairway mower and the ever-popular Reelmaster 3100-D Sidewinder. There are also entire ranges of equipment now in stock including all pedestrian greensmowers, all Groundsmaster models – from the 3500 all the way up to the Groundsmaster 4700, and the full Toro Workman range.

Jon concludes: “We are just waiting on a few remaining lines to have a complete line up meaning the wait is well and truly over. With the extended lead times there has been a huge amount of business booked for 2025, which again we are extremely thankful for. With this in mind and to continue with the good news, we are able to offer a range of finance options to suit the customers budget and buying cycle, giving customers the tools to either bring their deliveries forward or take advantage of the available stock to get the machines and fleet deals they want quickly.”

More machines mean that demo fleets across the country are expanding and there is now a wide range of machines available for customers to access and test onsite prior to purchase. Customers can contact their local Reesink representative or dealer to find out more, arrange an onsite demonstrations and place orders.

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Committee for Golf Club Salaries publishes 2025 salary recommendations

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Committee for Golf Club Salaries publishes 2025 salary recommendations: Following extensive research, the Committee for Golf Club Salaries (CGCS) has recommended a 5% increase in the salaries of golf club staff for 2025.

The full CGCS statement can be found on the BIGGA website.

Committee for Golf Club Salaries publishes 2025 salary recommendations

Committee for Golf Club Salaries publishes 2025 salary recommendations

The increases will be added to the salary calculators provided on the CGCS website and take into account the National Living Wage increase, which is set at 5.8% in 2025. The recommendations also take into account the prevailing economic environment and the importance of golf facility staff to the overall industry.

The CGCS salary calculators also consider geographic regions, facility size, core responsibilities, club rating, qualifications and experience, ensuring recommendations can be tailored to individual members of staff.

Research is also taking place to enable the creation of calculators for addition golf facility roles including assistant manager and equipment manager or chief mechanic.

The CGCS is comprised of representatives of the British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) and the Golf Club Managers’ Association (GCMA) alongside independent golf club experts.

As in previous years, the CGCS states that these recommendations are intended to ensure golf facility staff are suitably paid and valued by their employer in today’s turbulent economic environment. The CGCS has no power to compel golf facilities to adopt these recommendations, but with the securing of new and competent staff becoming ever more difficult, the committee asks venues to seriously consider adopting the recommendations.

Alongside salaries, golf clubs are also urged to ensure that suitable attention and resource is given towards the growing concern that is mental health and wellbeing, as well as providing adequate opportunities for career pathway support, training and development. If any employer or golf club committee member would like to learn more about what BIGGA or the GCMA can provide in these areas, please do not hesitate to get in touch. Contact details are on the various associations’ websites.

Head to the CGCS website for more information and to explore the salary calculators, guidelines and principles of good pay.

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Campey Turf Care Systems wins award

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Campey Turf Care Systems wins award: Campey Turf Care Systems’ impact on the world stage, has been recognised by the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce (GMCC) with the 2024 Global Star Award.

The Macclesfield-based company received the accolade during the GMCC Excellence Awards at Manchester’s Albert Hall, with its outstanding achievements in innovation and global business growth making it a standout candidate.

Campey Turf Care Systems wins award

Campey Turf Care Systems wins award

As sport has grown globally, so has the demand for high-quality surfaces. Campey has developed with an ethos of solving the challenges turf professionals face in the UK, and by applying that worldwide, they have built a reputation as a leader of innovation.

The GMCC Excellence Awards showcase and celebrate business achievements and resilience, highlighting businesses, leaders, and teams that have demonstrated success within their industries and communities in Greater Manchester.

Speaking about the recognition, Managing Director Julia Campey said, “Winning the Global Star Award is a testament to our entire team’s hard work and dedication. We are proud to represent the turf industry on the global stage, and this award highlights our commitment to continually delivering exceptional service and driving innovation in the turf care industry.”

Campey’s place as the winner was secured due to its history, progress, and innovation in the global turf market. Campey Turf Care Systems, established in 1986 by Richard Campey, has provided sports turf professionals with industry-defining machinery for 38 years.

Richard Campey detected an untapped market need. He realised that a specialist supplier of high-quality, purpose-built equipment could enable turf managers to meet the in-creased demands placed on modern sports turf surfaces.

From FIFA World Cups to Wimbledon, and Salford City FC to Manchester United, there is rarely a tournament or event played on turf that hasn’t been prepared using a Campey machine.

What initially started out as a business offering sports turf maintenance work within the North West of the United Kingdom has now grown to be one of the UK’s leading independent distributors. Machinery is available from over 70 dealers throughout Europe, Asia, Africa and the USA. Campey continues to strengthen its international presence by establishing Campey Australia and new dealer networks around the world.

Irrespective of the region, Campey Turf Care Systems is not just about providing industry-leading machinery. The company is equally invested in education. It has conducted numerous European roadshows and demo days worldwide, offering country-specific training to esteemed professionals and volunteers, thereby consistently elevating the standard of play.

Campey’s innovative machinery, combined with education and customer service, is what has led to the exponential and continued growth of a family business from Macclesfield, which is now the number one supplier and manufacturer of specialised sports turf equipment in the world.

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