Feed pad with rubber matting hailed as game changer
For Otago farmers Michelle and Rogan Borrie, a newly constructed feed pad on one of their three farms has been a game changer.
The need for a portable shearing/ clipping machine that could be used in stockyards prompted David Short to invent the Handypiece back in 2008.
Offering the main benefit of working anywhere without mains power, Handypiece allows users of all abilities to keep on top of those dirty jobs, resulting in better animal health and efficiency. Cleverly designed, the brushless motor means the battery lasts longer, making it possible to crutch from 300-400 sheep with a single charge.
The Handypiece Pro has the added feature of variable speed from 2600 – 3500rpm, allowing dagging, crutching and trimming cows’ tails at a midspeed of 2800rpm, while those wanting a superior cut while shearing can run at the maximum speed. In the case of alpaca shearers, they can use a traditional, slim handpiece, while reducing the speed to that of a clipper.
Being a traditional handpiece, the device takes all standard combs & cutters of any brand the user prefers, yet is still available at a reasonable price. The Handypiece also can be customised for left-handed users, or alternatively assembled with the cord exiting from the middle of the motor, meaning the unit can be used by both left, and right-handed operators.
During the National Fieldays the kit will feature two 6 amp/hr lithium-ion batteries, a battery charger, heavy-duty leather belt, holster and pouch, alongside a 5m extension cord and carry bag.
South Waikato farm manager Ben Purua’s amazing transformation from gang life to milking cows was rewarded with the Ahuwhenua Young Maori Farmer award last night.
Bankers have been making record profits in the last few years, but those aren’t the only records they’ve been breaking, says Federated Farmers vice president Richard McIntyre.
The 2023-24 season has been a roller coaster ride for Waikato dairy farmers, according to Federated Farmers dairy section chair, Mathew Zonderop.
Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) director general Ray Smith says job cuts announced this morning will not impact the way the Ministry is organised or merge business units.
Scales Corporation is acquiring a number of orchard assets from Bostock Group.
Family and solidarity shone through at the 75 years of Ferdon sale in Otorohanga last month.