STIHL introduces new SGA 30 battery-powered sprayer

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STIHL introduces new SGA 30 battery-powered sprayer: STIHL has expanded its sprayer offering with the launch of the SGA 30, a sprayer designed to combine operator comfort with consistently precise liquid application. Purpose-built for groundskeepers, landscapers and gardeners, the new model eliminates the need for manual pumping, ensuring steady pressure delivery that makes light work of spraying tasks.

Delivering a working pressure of 1.5 to 2.5 bars, the SGA 30 uses the STIHL AS System battery and features a 5-litre tank capacity, whilst enabling users to tailor output depending on the application, whether applying fertilisers across lawns or pesticides to specific plants. This adjustability helps to ensure effective coverage while cutting down on unnecessary product use.

STIHL introduces new SGA 30 battery-powered sprayer

STIHL introduces new SGA 30 battery-powered sprayer

Practical features are built in to make everyday use easier. The adjustable nozzle provides the flexibility to alternate between fine misting and direct spot treatments, while the telescopic lance ensures operators can reach awkward or elevated areas with minimal effort. For further convenience, the sprayer shuts off automatically when the tank is empty or inactive, conserving energy and supporting longer battery life.

Ease of use is at the heart of the SGA 30’s design, with straightforward pressure controls, an intuitive ON/OFF switch and a clear battery charge indicator. Weighing just 2.1 kg without the battery, and 7.1 kg when filled with liquid and battery in place, design remains lightweight, with a carry strap and handle , to keep users working efficiently and comfortably for longer periods.

To learn more about the STIHL SGA 30 battery-powered sprayer, visit www.stihl.co.uk.

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Syngenta appoints Pete May as new Technical Manager

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Syngenta appoints Pete May as new Technical Manager: Syngenta has appointed Pete May as the company’s new Technical Manager for Turf & Landscape in the UK and Ireland.

Pete brings an important blend of practical skills and experience of turf management, alongside a solid technical knowledge of turf plant science and research.

Syngenta appoints Pete May as new Technical Manager

Syngenta appoints Pete May as new Technical Manager

In his role of Technical Manager with Lawntech for the past 10 years, Pete has pioneered the development of effective Integrated Turf Management (ITM) strategies for the sector – dealing with increasing challenges of disease, pest and weed control in quality fine turf surfaces.

He also established an R&D and trials area, carrying out research on seasonal turf responses to different inputs, testing the effectiveness of products and a dedicated programme of wetting agent trials.

An active participant in industry events and training, sharing insights and innovations, Pete is experienced in the delivery of technical training and resources for turf managers and enhancing team knowledge.

Commenting on his appointment, Pete said: “It’s an exciting time to be joining the Syngenta turf team, with the development of new fungicide, herbicide, biostimulant and wetting agent technologies all approaching launch in the UK.”

He will utilise the huge resource of new trials and research data, as well as golf and sports turf user experience, to help create ITM strategies for turf managers that will help to better cope with challenges of climatic changes and increasing player demands. Along with immense experience and knowledge to help deliver solutions in the lawncare sector.

“Building on the solid legacy of Syngenta technical products, coupled with new innovations in decision support data and application techniques, gives a great opportunity to meet and discuss ideas with turf management customers and agronomists.”

Pete has taken over the role of Sean Loakes, who has been promoted to Syngenta Turf Technical Manager for Europe. Sean will continue to support Pete in working with customers and the existing UK turf research projects.

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Tobermory Golf Club invests in new Jacobsen equipment

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Tobermory Golf Club invests in new Jacobsen equipment:  An island golf club with just 70 members has made a major investment to safeguard the condition of its much-loved nine-hole course. Tobermory Golf Club, a longstanding community hub on Mull, has purchased a new Jacobsen PGM 22 pedestrian greens mower and a caddy trailer to help its small volunteer-led team manage the steep hilltop layout.

The machines were sourced through Jacobsen’s Scottish dealer, Fairways GM at Inchinnan.

Tobermory Golf Club invests in new Jacobsen equipment

Tobermory Golf Club invests in new Jacobsen equipment

The investment comes as Greens Convener John Wilshire approaches a remarkable milestone — next May marks 50 years of working association with the club. Now semi-retired and working around 15 hours a week, he coordinates a small multi-skilled team who each contribute part-time hours to course upkeep.

“Our course sits on a hilltop and drains incredibly quickly, even after really heavy rain,” John Wilshire said. “Now we’re in mid-November, we’re cutting maybe twice a week at most, but in summer the workload is much higher.”

Multiple jobs are a way of life in Tobermory, and the greens team reflects that.

“Most of our greens mowing is done by one of our team who is also the local baker,” he added. “He’s in the bakery from 4.30am to 8.30am, then comes up to cut the greens. In summer that can be four or five times a week; at this time of year it’s about twice as the growth tails off.”

The PGM 22 will be used exclusively on the greens and supported by the club’s existing tees mower. The older greens mower remains as a backup, while a 20-year-old Jacobsen is still used after sanding to protect newer kit from abrasive conditions.

Fairways GM’s Area Sales Manager, Stuart Cameron demonstrated and delivered the new PGM 22 and caddy trailer, ensuring the team were confident with the setup ahead of next season.

The Jacobsen combination is expected to make day-to-day work on the slopes much easier when the 2026 cutting season begins.

“The new trailer makes it much simpler for anyone cutting the greens to load and unload the mower,” said John Wilshire. “Our previous trailer was higher and far less convenient — this one is like a little caddy.”

When the club later needed help, Service Manager Stewart Mulholland stepped in without delay.

“Service Manager Stewart Mulholland came over to the island to assist us,” John Wilshire said. “He cleared up a bit of confusion with the bottom blade and took us through the correct procedures.”

Still serving as Greens Convener, Club President and clubhouse caretaker, John has now stepped back from full-time duties. “I used to look after the whole course myself, but after reaching retirement age I now just do bits and pieces.”

Tobermory Golf Club continues to welcome members, visitors and golfers from around the world, drawn by its dramatic views over the Sound of Mull and its friendly welcome.

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Bionema advances Innovate UK–funded BiofilmTech® programme

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Bionema advances Innovate UK–funded BiofilmTech® programme: Bionema Group has announced major progress in its Innovate UK–funded BiofilmTech® programme, following early breakthroughs that point to a new generation of biological fertilisers capable of supporting multiple plant functions from a single integrated microbial system.

Today, most biological fertilisers are typically based on single strains with narrow, single-benefit claims such as nitrogen fixation or stress support. BiofilmTech® is being developed to move beyond this approach. Bionema’s early work indicates that its multi-microbe platform — combining several beneficial organisms — could offer broader, more reliable benefits for growers. Although specific mechanisms remain confidential pending patent filings, early results suggest stronger nutrient availability, improved crop resilience, and consistent root activity across different soils and climates.

Bionema advances Innovate UK–funded BiofilmTech® programme

Bionema advances Innovate UK–funded BiofilmTech® programme

A key area of interest is BiofilmTech®’s potential to support crops even under cooler conditions, where many commercial biologicals struggle to perform. This capability, together with the multi-benefit profile under development, positions BiofilmTech® as a promising next-generation alternative to conventional fertiliser programmes.

The timing is significant. With tighter fertiliser regulation, rising production costs, and increasing pressure to reduce emissions, global demand for more dependable biological nutrient solutions continues to grow. Agricultural companies are actively seeking technologies that can deliver broader functionality and more consistent field performance, without relying solely on single-mechanism microbial products.

Dr Minshad Ansari, CEO and Founder of Bionema Group, said:
“BiofilmTech® is being designed to do far more than today’s single-strain products. Our early findings suggest a new type of biological fertiliser that supports plant health in several ways at once. We believe this could open a meaningful new opportunity for the industry, and we welcome early discussions with global partners as we move into the next stage of development.”

Supported by an Innovate UK grant, Bionema is now advancing BiofilmTech® toward more extensive field testing, scalable formulation pathways, and preparation for commercial evaluation. The company is opening strategic conversations with international fertiliser and crop-input companies interested in co-development, licensing, and regional deployment opportunities ahead of anticipated market readiness in the coming years.

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New Era For GMA Leadership

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New Era For GMA Leadership: The Grounds Management Association (GMA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Martyn Ward as Chair of the Board of Directors, and Neil Stubley as Vice Chair, ushering in a new era of leadership for the Association.

The GMA also extends its sincere thanks and best wishes to outgoing Chair David Carpenter, whose strategic guidance has been instrumental in shaping the Association’s direction over the last two decades.

New Era For GMA Leadership

New Era For GMA Leadership

Martyn Ward, Partner at Ward and Hagon Management Consulting LLP, brings over 40 years of experience in sales, marketing and executive leadership. His career includes senior roles at Foster’s Brewing Group/Courage, Alliance UniChem/Boots, and SSL International, where he served as Regional Managing Director. A strategic and collaborative leader, he offers deep expertise in business development and stakeholder engagement, making him a valuable asset to the GMA Board.

Joining him as the newly appointed Vice Chair is Neil Stubley, Head of Grounds and Horticulture at The All-England Lawn Tennis Club – a well-respected figure in the industry. His practical experience within grounds management makes him a strong complement to Martyn’s strategic vision. His appointment as Vice Chair reflects his longstanding commitment to the grounds management profession and the GMA’s mission.

Neil Stubley commented: “I’m proud to take on the role of Vice Chair and support Martyn and the Board in continuing the GMA’s vital work. Together, we’ll focus on strengthening the industry, supporting our members, and ensuring the value of grounds management is recognised across all sectors.”

As the GMA bids farewell to David Carpenter, the Board expresses its appreciation for his years of service. David has spent the last seven years as Board Chair, and prior to that supported the GMA as an independent Board member. David’s leadership has helped foster a strong, inclusive community and laid the groundwork for future growth and innovation.

Martyn Ward added: “I’m honoured to take on the role of Chair at such a pivotal time for the GMA. I look forward to working with Neil, the Board, and our members to build on the strong foundation laid by David and drive continued progress across the sector.”

Geoff Webb, CEO said: “I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to David Carpenter for his invaluable contributions over the past seven years as Chair. Throughout times of challenge, David’s quiet yet confident leadership has been a steadying force and should not be underestimated.

“We’ve also seen the GMA grow steadily, thanks to the support of dedicated individuals like Geoff Burges and James Wright, who now conclude their time on the Board. Their efforts have helped position us strongly for the future.

“Looking ahead, I’m confident that Martyn Ward and Neil Stubley will be a dynamic pairing, well-placed to build on the solid foundations laid so far and to support the executive team as we move forward.”

The GMA remains committed to supporting its members and promoting excellence in grounds management. With this new leadership team, the Association is poised for continued innovation and impact.

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