bundaberg demo day a success!

BUNDABERG farmers were given a look at a selection of machinery brands not often seen in the area, with the Conag Equipment field demonstration last month.

Held on a farm on Moore Park Road, the two-day demonstration provided an opportunity for farmers to see Valtra tractors in action, along with Househam spray equipment and a selection of tillage equipment presented by Fieldquip.

On display was the Valtra T162, which is part of the T Series Direct models. The T Series offers a variety of hydraulic and transmission options with its Classic, HiTech, Versu and Direct model variants. Based on the latest technology, T Series tractors are suited to farmers as well as contractors or forestry specialists.  Each model can be customised for a wide range of different requirement profiles.

The Valtra T Series combines traditional high performance with incomparable flexibility and comfort. Direct models have a new and extremely easy-to-use stepless transmission that is designed and built in-house by Valtra. Both new transmissions are based on tried and tested modular components.

Valtra Direct models are equipped with the Nordic continuously variable transmission. The Nordic CVT transmission is controlled in most situations with the drive pedal and speed management on the patented ergonomic Valtra ARM armrest. The reliable CVT is designed to be effective in both very high and low temperatures for fast starts in the Nordic cold and heavy pulling in the Mediterranean heat. Four work areas offer equal efficiency at low and high speeds.

A proven and easy to use power shuttle unit guarantees productivity in both driving directions. When using the front loader, a hydraulics assistant automatically increases the engine speed to improve loading performance, while the turbine clutch function helps keep a firm grip on the ground. Direct models offer optimum precision of movement for total control. To make driving as easy as possible, all the main control buttons and switches are located on the Valtra ARM driver’s armrest.

Although the brand may not be a common name within machinery sheds throughout Queensland yet, Valtra is a renowned for its reliability, versatility, longevity and Scandinavian heritage. The Househam Cotton Boss self-propelled sprayer also impressed field demonstration goers, particularly those from the horticulture sector in the Bundaberg region.

THE reach and accuracy of the Cotton Boss Air Ride 3000 (AR3000) model was being displayed at the demonstration. This model is the most popular with Househam operators, both contractors and farmers. The AR3000 is powered by a 170hp six cylinder engine and has numerous boom options. The new panoramic cab offers one of the best operator visibilities in the market.

The AR3000 is also available with hydraulic adjustable axle as an option. It boasts fully hydrostatic four wheel drive with low medium and high ranges with primary hydrostatic braking and automatic parking brake. Steering is also 2/4 wheel hydrostatic meaning the vehicle can turn in the tightest of areas, within 7m. Active self-levelling load compensating air suspension allows for a smooth ride over the roughest country. The sprayer itself consists of a 3000L tank, a 240L external wash tank, a four-cylinder 270L /min ALTEC pump putting the liquid through multi-stage filtration with flushing pressure filter.

The boom on display had a reach of 24m, and was hydraulic folding, with an impressive fold-up speed. It can be altered between three or four spray lines, four section air controlled with pressurised recirculation system. The AR3000 has a minimum spray height of 65cm and a maximum spray height of 2.5m. Based in the United Kingdom, Househam sprayers have a strong reputation among vegetable growers in Tasmania and are finding new clients throughout Australia.