Tag Archive for: conference

New GMA Conference Set To Bring The Sector Together

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New GMA Conference Set To Bring The Sector Together: The Grounds Management Association (GMA) is thrilled to announce a major new addition to the industry calendar: the GMA Conference 2026 – a full day of practical learning and big industry conversations.

Hosted at the iconic Edgbaston Stadium in Birmingham on Thursday 12 March, the landmark event will bring together leading experts and experienced practitioners from across the UK and beyond for an immersive programme designed to inform, inspire, and connect.

New GMA Conference Set To Bring The Sector Together

New GMA Conference Set To Bring The Sector Together

What to expect

Backed by Platinum Sponsor ISEKI, and industry organisations such ICL, Origin Amenity Solutions, Reesink UK, Agronomic Services Ltd, SGL, MJ Abbott and Premier Pitches, the 2026 programme offers real-world sessions with immediate takeaways:

  • Expert Speakers: Hear from industry leaders including: Ruth Mann (Head of Integrated Crop Technologies, Agrii), Tony Hanson (Environmental Solutions International), Daniel Ratling (Grounds and Estate Manager at Whitgift School), broadcaster Mark Clemit, Chris Hunter (GMA), Will Brierley & Mark Ferguson (All England Lawn Tennis Club), and John Lawrence (Edgbaston Priory Tennis Club), with more names to be announced soon.
  • Practical Sessions: Gain actionable insights with real-world case studies, including:
    • A behind-the-scenes look at Lord’s full-scale pitch renovation
    • Strategies for future-proofing facilities under new water regulations
    • Workshops on soil health, workforce development, and leadership skills
  • Interactive Panels: CPD-rich discussions tackling the challenges and opportunities shaping the sector right now.
  • Soft Skills Matter: Build leadership, communication and team management skills to complement your technical expertise. These sessions will ensure you leave not only with technical know-how, but also the interpersonal skills essential for long-term success.

Attendees can build their own agenda to focus on the skills and knowledge most relevant to their career whilst accessing the latest research and emerging best practice – a snapshot of where grounds management is heading.

Networking runs throughout the programme with plenty of time to connect and meet new peers. A guided tour of Edgbaston’s world-class facilities will offer a rare behind-the-scenes look at excellence in action.

After the conference, delegates are invited to stay for the GMA Industry Awards, the annual celebration of the people and achievements driving standards across the sector.

The conference will complement other GMA educational events throughout 2026, offering a wider programme of learning opportunities for grounds professionals at every stage of their career.

Sarah Hunter, Head of Events at the GMA, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be launching a dedicated conference for the sector in 2026. Grounds professionals operate in a fast-changing environment, and there’s a real appetite for events that combine practical learning with the chance to connect with others facing similar challenges.

“One of the real strengths of this programme is that delegates can tailor their day by choosing the sessions and speakers that are most relevant to their role. This conference delivers exactly that – flexibility and depth. We can’t wait to welcome everyone to Edgbaston for what promises to be a standout day.”

Full programme details will be announced soon, but you don’t need to wait to secure your place. Register your interest now to be among the first to get early access for this must-attend conference.

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Bernhard Academy launches Turf Equipment Technicians Conference

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Bernhard Academy launches Turf Equipment Technicians Conference: The Bernhard Academy is excited to announce the launch of its first-ever Turf Equipment Technicians Conference. The dedicated one-day event is designed to support and celebrate the vital role of turf equipment technicians, equipment managers, and professionals in greenkeeping and grounds maintenance.

Taking place on Tuesday, 23 September, at the Bernhard Academy located within Bernhard and Company’s manufacturing headquarters in Haverhill, this industry-focused conference is officially endorsed by the Turf Equipment Technicians Organisation (TETO) and aims to deliver specialist education and training tailored to the unique needs of turf equipment professionals.

Bernhard Academy launches Turf Equipment Technicians Conference

Bernhard Academy launches Turf Equipment Technicians Conference

Conference Programme Highlights

  • The importance of being sharp – A presentation by Steven Nixon, Managing Director of Bernhard and Company, highlighting the importance of education in supporting the dedication of turf professionals.
  • Cutting Unit Adjustment – Led by Stuart Hall, Customer Services Manager for Bernhard and Company, and former Equipment Manager, offering hands-on tips and techniques.
  • Electrics Fault-Finding Masterclass – Hosted by Barry Drennan, Programme Leader for Technical and Equipment Management at Bernhard Academy.
  • Effective Communication Techniques – An interactive session led by Phil Helmn, Programme Leader for Agronomy, Leadership, and Management.
  • Manufacturing Facility Tour – An inside look at the process behind Bernhard’s market-leading grinders.
  • 2025 US Open Insights – A special session with James Breeze, recipient of the Bernhard Academy Technical Support Volunteer Initiative, discussing his experiences at Oakmont Country Club in Pennsylvania, hosted by Phil Helmn.

Sami Strutt, Education Director at the Bernhard Academy emphasised the importance of education in industry growth: “At the Bernhard Academy, we’re committed to investing in professional development and working collaboratively to advance the turf industry. This conference not only provides vital training but also presents invaluable networking and shared learning opportunities.”

The TETO leadership team added: “We’re thrilled to see Bernhard Academy acknowledge the critical contribution of equipment technicians. This event underscores the value that skilled and educated team members bring to turf care. By endorsing this conference and encouraging our network of technicians to attend, we hope to establish this event as a regular fixture in the industry calendar.”

Steven Nixon, Managing Director at Bernhard and Company commented: “This conference presents a key milestone in our mission to build sustainable learning pathways. Skilled technicians are essential to delivering the elite-level surfaces expected in today’s sports world. It’s vital we continue attracting and training new talent to ensure the industry’s long-term success.”

All attendees will receive:

  • Voucher to complete an online Abrasive Wheel Certificate (IIRSM-certified, aligning with HSG 17 and the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974)
  • Certificate of Attendance
  • BIGGA CPD Credits

BIGGA members are eligible for £50 discount. To claim your code, email hello@bernhardacademy.co.uk with your name and membership number.

For more information, visit: https://bernhardacademy.co.uk/courses/turf-equipment-technicians-conference

To find out more about the wide range of agronomy, technical, mechanical, and leadership programmes on offer at the Bernhard Academy, visit: www.bernhardacademy.co.uk

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Integrated Weed Management Conference 2025

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Integrated Weed Management Conference 2025: The inaugural conference on Integrated Weed Management for the Amenity Sector is to be hosted by Kersten UK on Thursday 5th June in Birmingham’s Highbury Hall.

The conference couldn’t be more prescient with the publishing of the National Biodiversity Strategy & Action Plan in February and the new Pesticides National Action Plan being finally published just last month. The new Pesticides National Action Plan particularly highlights Integrated Management, a sustainable strategy using biological, cultural, and mechanical methods to manage pests including weeds to minimise the reliance on conventional chemical pesticides, and the conference aims to inform and discuss the diverse ranges of weed management practices within the UK Amenity sector.

Integrated Weed Management Conference 2025

Integrated Weed Management Conference 2025

Presentations will include speakers from the Department of Environment Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) on the implications of the new Pesticide National Action Plan for the Amenity sector and from Cambridge City Council on a case study in becoming pesticide free and developing their Herbicide Reduction Plan after declaring a Biodiversity Emergency in 2019.

Parks for London will also be unveiling its Updated Integrated Weed Management Guidance and LANTRA will be launching its new qualification in Integrated Weed Management at the conference.

As part of the conference, attendees will be able to learn about the latest technological advancements in weed control such as various thermal and electrical weed control methods. Manufacturers from across Europe will be present to showcase how “mechanical alternatives can effectively maintain urban green spaces while minimising environmental impact” (UK Pesticide National Action Plan).

Attendees will also be able to participate and answer important questions in an audience-led discussion panel hosted by Bradley Tennant of International Greenkeepers for Hire with panellists including Professor John Moverley OBE, FRAgs, previously the independent chairman of UK Amenity Forum now running JMMSolutions Consultancy, and Nick Mole of Pesticide Action Network UK.

The conference hopes to bring together stakeholders of our amenity spaces, from council parks, streetscene and highways teams to Grounds Maintenance Contractors to exchange expertise and discuss the management of green urban spaces.

Sean Faulkner, the integrated weed management specialist from Kersten UK, who kicks-off the conference with an introduction to Integrated Pest Management says “My hope for the conference is that this will be a fertile ground to share how an integrated pest management philosophy can deliver a cost effective and sustainable weed control solution for the amenity sector.”

Tickets can be found on eventbrite, with early bird registration ending on the 5th May at which time tickets become full price.

Link: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/integrated-weed-management-conference-tickets-1111246049849?aff=oddtdtcreator 

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Students Cultivate Career Insights at Conference

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Students Cultivate Career Insights at Conference: The next generation of horticulturists explored the diverse career paths available to them as Hadlow College hosted its annual Horticulture Higher Education Conference.

Students heard from a range of industry experts, gaining valuable insights into the opportunities their qualifications could unlock. The event opened with a keynote address from Carol Ford of Ford Synthesis, followed by former Hadlow College student Josh Blakey, now a Fruit Advisor at FAST LLP, who shared his experiences at the College and his journey into the sector.

Students Cultivate Career Insights at Conference

Students Cultivate Career Insights at Conference

Holly Russell and Jill Kooijman from Enza Zaden took the stage next, discussing the development of new vegetable varieties. They were followed by Adam Walker from the National Institute of Agricultural Botany (NIAB), who provided an overview of his work in sustainable pest control strategies aimed at reducing environmental impact.

The morning’s programme concluded with a talk from Sarah Calcutt, Chief Executive of City Harvest, a food charity that rescues surplus nutritious food from farms, manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers, redistributing it to over 130,000 people a week through food poverty organisations.

The afternoon session began with Andrew Armitage, Associate Professor in Bioinformatics & Plant Pathology at the University of Greenwich, who set the stage for Billy Stott, owner of Stotts Nursery in Buckinghamshire.

Alan Frampton then spoke about his work at Cambridge HOK, a specialist in vertical farming, glasshouses, and energy solutions. He was followed by Adam Harrison, who shared insights into his role at Thanet Earth, Britain’s leading glasshouse complex and the principal sponsor of the Thanet Earth Centre of Excellence @ Hadlow College.

Rounding off the event was Steve Thomas, founder of Ample Marketplace, a digital platform launched in 2024 that enables farmers to sell excess fresh produce directly to buyers.

Alan Harvey, Hadlow College’s Head of Curriculum for Horticulture and Floristry, says: “I have been involved in delivering the Horticulture courses at Hadlow College for many years and its hugely rewarding to welcome back so many of our graduates to speak at our HE conference. We are also very grateful to many of the sponsors of the Centre of Excellence for also supporting this important event.”

Hadlow College offers a number of Higher Education courses, taught by industry professionals, with a strong focus on practical, job-related skills.

Horticulture students benefit from the Thanet Earth Centre of Excellence @ Hadlow College a groundbreaking partnership between the College, leading industry grower Thanet Earth, and research and innovation organisation Growing Kent & Medway. The Centre is based at the College’s state-of-the-art glasshouse, which is the UK’s first centre of excellence in greenhouse growing.

The College also has its own on-site residential accommodation that was graded as Outstanding by Ofsted last year.

To find out more about studying a Higher Education course at the College visit the University Centre section of the Hadlow College website.

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Campey looks forward to the SFMA Conference

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Campey looks forward to the SFMA Conference: Campey Turf Care Systems is set to exhibit at the 33rd annual STMA conference and exhibition between the 22-25th January 2024.

This year’s event is taking place at Daytona Beach, Florida and will feature Campey’s latest synthetic, hybrid and natural turf grooming products and the Martin Lishman Micro-Spray.

Campey looks forward to the SFMA Conference

Campey looks forward to the SFMA Conference

The key aim of the Micro-Spray is bringing versatility to the groundsman’s armoury. A narrow footprint allows it to fit through most gateways and passageways to tackle hard to reach spraying areas.

A new 150-litre tank version Micro-Spray is available in 2024, with all the current options of a 2.5m six nozzle or 3.5m eight nozzle three-section folding boom and the perfect combination of power, control and responsive handling, with the added benefit of a larger tank. It is suited to all types of sports grounds, golf courses and landscaping work. The comprehensive yet easy to use control box gives the operator more control over the sprayer with changeable motor direction to either walk behind or in front of the sprayer, 12 motor speeds, bout marker selection, a battery level indicator and optional hand lance.

Spray application rates, operating speed, and the pump pressure can be accurately and quickly controlled by the operator, as well as the adjustable boom height and independent shut-off nozzle bodies. All of these features come together to make a versatile sprayer that provides the same exceptional results time and time again regardless of where you’re working.

Other leading products on the Campey stand will be the Campey® Uni-Scratch, UNIRAKE©and the Campey® LM3010 liquid transfer line marker.

The Uni-Scratch is ideal for the professional and effective maintenance of natural and synthetic grass surfaces. The machine has been developed to infill or refill when installing or looking after synthetic grass carpets. It can also be used to remove organic matter on natural grass hybrid carpet pitches when carrying out annual renovations. The Uni-Scratch moves on four supporting rollers, which are adjustable in height to allow the most appropriate working depth. The rotors can be equipped with springs or linear brushes in PPL, with rear linkage to tractors of at least 30hp.

The UNIRAKE© serves a similar purpose by removing organic matter. Still, users can adjust the severity of grooming to remove a varying amount of organic matter or simply stand the sward up to encourage growth. Altering the severity of grooming is quick and easy and can be done in no less than 30-seconds.

Line marking is made simple with the Campey® LM3010 liquid transfer marker. What sets this line marker apart from the rest is that it only marks the leaf/plant and not the soil. This means that when greening out the lines for re-marking, it is easy to remove existing colours and re-line with greater precision and less time.

It is a simple, durable and easy to operate liquid transfer line marker. Marking material is transferred from the 30ltr hopper to the 10cm wide marking wheel by a grooved rubber roller which allows marking up to post or flag. It has pneumatic tyres and an adjustable flow rate giving even and accurate lines. The tubular steel handles can also be adjusted for operator comfort.

Many professional sporting clubs in the UK and Europe have the line marker, such as the Salford Reds. In the United States, sports facilities, including the Philadelphia Union Soccer PPL Park stadium and the New York Mets, a professional baseball team at its Citi Field stadium in Queens, use it regularly.

Throughout the week-long event, Campey product specialists will be available to give advice on machinery and answer any turf related questions.

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