Tractor, harvester IT comes of age
Over the last halfdecade, digital technology has appeared to be the “must-have” for tractor and machinery companies, who believe that bringing IT to tractors and farming will offer its customers huge benefits.
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.
Fonterra has cemented its position as the country’s number one cheesemaker by picking up nine NZ Champion of Cheese trophies this year.
New Zealand dairy processors are welcoming the Government’s commitment to continuing to push for Canada to honour its trade commitments.
An educational programme, set up by Beef + Land New Zealand, to connect farmers virtually with primary and intermediate school students has reported the successful completion of its second year.
The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) has welcomed a resolution adopted by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly to declare 2026 International Year of the Woman Farmer.
Waikato herd health veterinarian Katrina Roberts is the 2024 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year.
Horticulture NZ chief executive Nadine Tunley will step down in August.
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