Wolverine X2 - a tough beast built for NZ farmers
Yamaha has increased its offering of side-by-sides with the introduction of the Wolverine X2 Utility.
Rarely a week goes by without a report on a quad crash, prompting howls from experts for better rider training.
Meanwhile riders can soften the blows by wearing safety helmets. Though more farmers seem to be wearing them, many don't, citing issues of weight, ventilation and the struggle to communicate effectively with workers and dogs.
Now, Yamaha and helmet maker Shark at Fieldays launched to the world their 'X16', said to be the first fully certified helmet developed specifically for quad, side-by-side and ROV users.
Low weight of 1200g is achieved with a composite fibreglass shell, durable and proof against knocks onfarm.
Meeting ECE 22-05 and DOT safety standards, the helmet has many features to improve its usability onfarm.
An easy set-and-forget buckle outperforms the traditional double 'D' ring design; large cooling vents promote air flow; large earpads make communication easy; and inserts can reduce noise.
Accessories deal with dust, wind and flies, and a peak and neck guard keeps off the sun.
All units are Bluetooth ready: they have recesses for earphones and a Bluetooth communications controller. A removable easy-clean inner liner makes cleaning easy.
At Fieldays, Yamaha ATV and ROV marketing man Lance Turnley showed a pair of prototype examples. The helmets will go on sale towards the end of the year, he says.
A vet is calling for all animals to be vaccinated against a new strain of leptospirosis (lepto) discovered on New Zealand dairy farms in recent years.
Two major red meat sector projects are getting up to a combined $1.7 million in funding from the New Zealand Meat Board (NZMB).
Angus Barr and Tara Dwyer of The Wandle, Lone Star Farms in Strath Taieri have been named the Regional Supreme Winners at the Otago Ballance Farm Environment Awards in Dunedin.
OPINION: The distress that the politicians and bureaucrats are causing to the people of Wairoa and the wider Tairāwhiti is unforgivable.
Dairy
Rural banker Rabobank is partnering with Food Rescue Kitchen on a new TV series which airs this weekend that aims to shine a light on the real and growing issues of food waste, food poverty and social isolation in New Zealand.