NZ Technicians Honoured at 2026 John Deere Awards in Brisbane
Leading John Deere technicians and apprentices from New Zealand and Australians were recognised at the recent sixth annual JD Technician of the Year Awards, held in Brisbane.
John Deere is rolling out precision ag solutions and updated software for use on more brands and for expanding applications: they are the 4240 Universal Display, AutoTrac Universal 300 guidance solution and updated 18-2 Gen 4 software.
The weather-resistant 4240 Universal Display adds to the Gen 4 display family as an affordable, portable, and durable option for many types of farming operations.
For users who want to do more with their new display, Section Control and Data Sync with John Deere operations center can be added.
The 4240 Universal Display, which replaces the GreenStar 2 1800, is user-friendly in an easy-to-read, high-contrast 213mm touchscreen enclosed in a weather-resistant, IP65-rated shell for ROPS tractors.
Other features of the 4240 include video input and ethernet ports, ISOBUS compatibility, a multi-colour display screen and scalable functionality depending on customer preference: use the display as an implement-only display, or expand display applications to include section control, variable rate applications, wireless data transfer, data sync with John Deere operations center, and remote display access with additional subscriptions.
In addition, John Deere is introducing AutoTrac Universal 300 for use on John Deere and other brands of machines that are not AutoTrac ready, replacing the Universal 200. New features include easy, automatic setup; a smaller, more comfortable steering wheel; and a quieter steering motor in a weather-resistant housing.
AutoTrac Universal 300 complements the new 4240 universal display for open station tractors and other equipment, with set-up achieved by pressing ‘start calibration’ – then drive 100m and the AutoTrac Universal 300 will determine the correct settings for the equipment.
Ravensdown shareholders have elected Jane Montgomery and Kate Acland to the Ravensdown Board for three-year terms, following a closely contested director election.
Federated Farmers says new legislation replacing the Resource Management Act will cut red tape, unlock investment and help grow New Zealand's export-led economy, after the Planning Bill and Natural Environment Bill passed their third reading in Parliament yesterday.
Leading figures from the major political parties will be questioned on their primary sector policies at the Rural Issues Debate at Mystery Creek Events Centre, Hamilton, on 30 September.
OPINION: Have a plan in place now!
Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) says it welcomes the passage of the Natural Environment Bill and Planning Bill, calling the bills a positive step for sheep and beef farmers.
A spate of southerly winds bringing cold temperatures has presented challenges for Taranaki dairy farmers.