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DLF to deliver hands on educational experience at BTME

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DLF to deliver hands on educational experience at BTME: DLF Seeds are set to inspire and educate visitors at BTME 2026 with the launch of the brand new interactive ‘DLF Seed Lab’. Building on the success of previous years, the Seed Lab has been designed to bridge the gap between theory and practice – offering greenkeepers, grounds staff and turf professionals the opportunity to deepen their understanding and get hands-on with different turf grass species.

Complementing DLF’s Seed Identification Course at the Continue to Learn education programme, visitors to stand 124 will be able to see examples of managed turf and plants from key turf grass species. Seed samples and identification displays will also highlight the distinguishing characteristics of all major turf types, while live demonstrations will showcase the principles of seed quality and purity.

DLF to deliver hands on educational experience at BTME

DLF to deliver hands on educational experience at BTME

Together with expanding knowledge, a stop by the DLF Stand will also form part of the BASIS trail, enabling visitors to build points as part of their BTME visit.

In addition, the technical team will be discussing the latest developments in the DLF Disease Watch programme – steering cultivar and breeding programmes to develop more effective and sustainable seed solutions to tackle disease patterns across Europe head-on. One of many notable successes from this programme has been the development of DLF 4Turf tetraploid ryegrass, with improved drought and disease resistance combined with improved colour and fast establishment making them an ideal choice for turf managers looking to improve surface quality and reduce input costs.

Visitors are invited to find out more about 4Turf and all the latest updates across DLF’s market-leading Johnsons Sports Seed, Masterline and MM seed ranges together with the extensive native and high-impact wildflower collections when BTME returns to Harrogate Convention Centre on 20th to 22nd January 2026. Whether your aim to is improve your seed ID skills, explore new mixtures or be the first to learn about the latest advances in seed technology, stand 124 is one not to miss!

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Greenkeepers selected to support PGA Tour’s flagship event

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Greenkeepers selected to support PGA Tour’s flagship event: The British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) and Premium Partner John Deere have revealed the five greenkeepers who will head to TPC Sawgrass to join the agronomy team for The Players Championship 2026.

With its famous island green and stunning Florida setting, the Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass is considered among the most spectacular golfing challenges in the world, and the chosen BIGGA members will be completely immersed in the hosting of the PGA Tour’s flagship event, with flights, accommodation and other costs included.

Greenkeepers selected to support PGA Tour's flagship event

Greenkeepers selected to support PGA Tour’s flagship event

While there, the greenkeepers will work alongside more than 100 turf professionals from across the globe and gain experience of elite championship agronomy, which they can bring back to their home venues.

The scheme is open to full BIGGA members over the age of 21 and the trip takes place from 6-16 March 2026.

Chris Meacock, Division Sales Manager for Golf and Turf at John Deere, said: “We always receive a large number of quality applications from greenkeepers who want to invest in their own personal development by being part of the tournament preparation for such a prestigious event. This year was no different, and we are delighted to have selected individuals who are so enthusiastic about being part of the TPC Sawgrass volunteering team.

“I’m very proud of the long-standing partnership John Deere has with BIGGA to make this happen. Over the past decade we have been able to support the progression of more than 60 greenkeepers, and we know the experience forms a valuable part of their future careers.”

BIGGA CEO, Jim Croxton said: “The TPC Sawgrass Volunteer Initiative is one of greenkeeping’s most exciting opportunities and we are incredibly grateful to John Deere for making it possible. Every year the members who earn the right to take part grow their networks, make friends for life and get an insight into the stating of one of golf’s most exciting and high-profile events.”

The 2026 BIGGA volunteers are:

  • Tiffany Mills, Ryston Park Golf Club
  • Stephen van Rhyn, Beaverbrook Golf Club
  • Andrea Sozio, Carnegie Club at Skibo Castle
  • Paul Gater, Caldy Golf Club
  • Adam Matthews, Minchinhampton Golf Club

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Baroness brings extensive mower line-up to BTME

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Baroness brings extensive mower line-up to BTME: Baroness is set to make a commanding return to BTME 2026, showcasing the very best in Japanese engineering and turf care technology.

Sharing stand 624 with Kubota once again, visitors can expect to see the full spectrum of golf course mower and maintenance solutions – all delivering the industry-leading cut quality, superior durability and long-term value the Baroness brand is synonymous with.

Baroness brings extensive mower line-up to BTME

Baroness brings extensive mower line-up to BTME

On show for the very first time in the UK or Europe will be the ELM56 – a lithium-battery powered prototype of the popular LM56 pedestrian mower. The high-capacity lithium-ion battery offers quiet, efficient operation, while the nickel-chrome-molybdenum alloy cutting cylinders with hardened bedknives guarantee a consistently professional quality of cut. Fully-gear driven for low-maintenance performance and with one-touch operation, the ELM56 provides exceptional control and manoeuvrability for a premium finish on greens, tees, tennis courts and cricket pitches.

Also making a re-appearance at Harrogate Convention Centre in January will be the LMB12. The all-electric, lightweight design of the LMB12 promises to redefine the mowing experience on steep bunker edges or ornamental areas where the compact footprint combined with ease of operation and low noise pollution is essential for optimising both presentation and safety.

Working up through the range, another highlight promises to be the LM551B – a mid-weight five-unit fairway mower which allows you to create the ideal configuration to suit your course conditions. Equipped with 22” & 26″ units along with a range of optional accessories, this highly versatile machine effortlessly follows contours to maintain consistent cut quality while also delivering improvements in fuel efficiency and operator comfort.

Visitors looking for a high-output rotary mower for large spaces will also find the solution on stand 624 in the form of the five-deck GM2810A.

Complementing one of the shows biggest mower line-ups will be a number of maintenance machines including the Baroness TDA1600 aerator and Agrimetal GR660 roller. Providing an industry leading 66” roll width and equipped with the robust, low-maintenance synchro belt drive system, the GR660 enhances smoothness and playability, improving greens speed and providing a professional finish for top-tier course presentation.

Whether you’re looking to improve cut quality, increase productivity or optimise course condition, Baroness’ offering – supported by Kubota’s power units and performance – delivers the complete package from tee to green, making a stop by stand 624 a must when BTME returns on 20th – 22nd January 2026.

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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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Transitioning from tanks to tractors with John Deere

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Transitioning from tanks to tractors with John Deere: From frontline tank repairs to supporting farmers at harvest, Chris Giles has carved out a career in the civilian world by transferring his military engineering skills to John Deere’s dealership network.

After serving in the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME), Chris was unsure of his next step until he attended an open day about the John Deere Military Hiring Programme.

Transitioning from tanks to tractors with John Deere

Transitioning from tanks to tractors with John Deere

Today he is a Technical Communicator and Certified Dealer Instructor at the Tallis Amos Group Leominster depot, and his journey is about to come full circle as he prepares to explain military personnel have the ideal skillset to resettle,

Chris will be one of the speakers at a John Deere Military Hiring Programme webinar taking place on 3 December at 7pm.

“In terms of the kit, going from tanks to tractors is a completely different world,” says Chris. “The hydraulics, for example are completely different.

“But there wasn’t much of a transition when coming to the John Deere brand, as the level of high readiness is the same. The kit needs to be fixed and out the door as soon as possible, much like in the army.

“While the machinery is different, the basics of the work are the same. You’re looking to apply that pre-existing training and knowledge to a different kind of machine.”

Chris joined REME as a vehicle mechanic in 2012, working extensively on tank engines and transmissions before moving into several front-line units from 2015. Stationed in Hereford, he was deployed around the world repairing everything from quads to heavy armour.

He attended the John Deere open event for military technicians at Langar shortly before the pandemic and met a John Deere employee who had also served as part of REME. After putting him in contact with the right people, Chris made the decision to pursue a career at John Deere.

After completing his training and work experience at the Tallis Amos Group Leominster depot, Chris began employment as a technician but has since progressed to a Technical Communicator and Certified Dealer Instructor role. He explains that at first he worked in the workshop diagnosing issues, servicing and repairing crucial kit like combines and tractors, but now he helps technicians from the office and across different depots in the dealership network and trains the new staff who are coming through.

“As a Technical Communicator, if the technicians go out to a job and struggle to diagnose it or need extra information, then they’ll get in touch with me as I have access to the information or people that are needed, and then I’ll pass that information back to the technicians,” he says.

“As a Certified Dealer Instructor, I deal with the new technicians that are coming through and doing their training, including the level one and two training that the Military Hiring Programme applicants will receive, which is all online. I mainly teach electrics, hydraulics, and the service advisor side.”

Open to servicemen and women who are looking for new careers after they leave the armed forces, attendees of the online event on 3 December will have the opportunity to listen to Chris and others who have been through the John Deere Military Hiring Programme.

John Deere’s ground-breaking resettlement programme for military service personnel offers new career opportunities working on some of the world’s most advanced agricultural and professional groundscare machinery.

Members of the armed forces have been identified as ideal candidates for their unique skill sets and the experience they bring to technician roles within UK and Ireland dealerships. Many have already worked with some of the systems and products John Deere use on their agricultural and turf machinery, making the transition straightforward.

Those who enrol onto the programme are put into contact with an individual from the John Deere network who has resettled previously. They guide them through the next steps which includes free training courses before finding employment with a John Deere dealer.

Interested service members and ex-service members can find out more and apply to the John Deere Military Hiring Programme by visiting www.deere.com/JDMHP.

The online event is free but pre-registration is required at https://jdmhp.eventbrite.co.uk/

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