INSIDE AGRI-TURF

In this festive episode of 'Inside Agri-Turf', I recap highlights from recent episodes.

This is episode 135, and I thank all those who tune in and listen to a stellar line-up of guests in increasing numbers, and to all guests over the past five years, thank you for your contributions, wisdom and experiences.

The podcast will return towards the end of January - after we have completed a house move.

Below are the time-links to all the extracts in this episode - all the full versions can be found on the Inside Agri-Turf website

00:00 Welcome to the Festive Episode

02:12 Keith Christian

04:14 Robin Lennie Rewind

06:10 Geoff Webb

07:30 Dr Mark Moore

10:28 Mark Earles

16:48 Anna Jones Rewind

19:47 Stephen Howarth

22.15 Jane Craigie

24:10 Martin Hamer

Inside Agri-Turf is devised, recorded, edited and published by Chris Biddle

"I don't want to upset farmers who buy my tractors - or butchers who buy my beef cattle"

A view from both sides of fence on the current farmers stand-off with the Government over inheritance tax from Martin Hamer, National Sales Manager for AGCO's Fendt tractor brand - and a farmer himself and active member of the National Farmers Union.

Martin shares his concerns about keeping the public onside during any demonstrations or disruptive actions. He discusses the possible involvement of Jeremy Clarkson - and how the breaking up family farms would be harmful to the variety of agriculture in this country and the value of a well-tended countryside.

LINKS.

Fendt tractors

National Farmers Union

Agricultural Engineers Association

Inside Agri-Turf is devised, produced , edited and published by Chris Biddle

Chris discusses the ongoing standoff between the farming community and the UK government over inheritance tax and its potential impact on British food production.

Guests Stephen Howarth, an agricultural economist, and Jane Craigie, a leading agri-food marketeer, share insights on current market trends, the effect on tractor and machinery registrations, and the broader ramifications for the agricultural supply sector.

The episode also explores the emotional and financial strain on family farms and the role of supporting industries in mitigating these challenges.

02:12 Introducing the Guests

03:13 Stephen Howarth

16:20 Jane Craigie

38:44 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview

LINKS

Agricultural Engineers Association

Jane Craigie Marketing

Podcast website

Inside Agri-Turf is devised, produced, recorded and edited by Chris Biddle

In this rewind of an episode published in January 2023, Chris talks with Anna Jones, a journalist and founder of Just Farmers. Anna discusses her background, growing up on a family farm on the Welsh border and her career in journalism, including working on the BBC's Countryfile.

The conversation explores her motivations behind founding Just Farmers, an organization dedicated to providing media training to farmers, and her book 'Divide,' which addresses the disconnect between urban and rural communities.

Anna sheds light on the challenges and successes of bridging these communities, the impact of public perceptions on farming, and the importance of honest, human storytelling in the media.

The interview also touches on contemporary issues facing farmers, including food prices, self-sufficiency, and the influence of public figures like Jeremy Clarkson and George Monbiot on the industry's image.

LINKS

JUST FARMERS website

CLICK for Divide on Amazon

Inside Agri-Turf is devised, produced, edited and published by Chris Biddle

Chris Biddle continues his conversation with David Kirschner, who discusses the challenges of promoting this niche yet crucial industry and the steps taken to secure better funding for apprentices.

He details a critical meeting at Pershore College in 2018 where he outlined the industry's needs, reflecting on the progress made despite initial funding hurdles. Kirschner also highlights the role of social media and technology in advancing the industry's visibility and career opportunities.

The conversation is a deep dive into the meticulous effort required to secure necessary resources and recognition for a sector often overshadowed by more well-known industries.

A Perfect Storm: David refers to the supporting document he wrote for the formal application for increased funding for Apprentices in Land-Based Engineering. READ IN FULL

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Photo: David receiving the 2017 Service Dealer Outstanding Contribution award presented by Trish Biddle

LINKS

Landbased Engineering Training and Education Committee (LE-TEC)

Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA)

British Agricultural and Garden Machinery Association (BAGMA)

Institution of Agricultural Engineers (IAgrE)

We are Landbased Engineering

Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE)

In this two-part episode, Chris is in conversation with David Kirschner, a seasoned agricultural engineer and consultant in the land-based engineering industry.

David shares his extensive experience, from his early career as an apprentice in tractor servicing to influential roles with several tractor brands including Massey Ferguson, Renault and Fendt.

He discusses the evolution and challenges within the industry, including the pivotal We Are Land Based Engineering campaign, the launch of the LTA scheme, and the impact of the Richard Report on apprenticeships.

David also touches on his personal battle with health issues and his relentless commitment to improving the sector's professional standards - mostly behind the scenes and out of the limelight.

LINKS

Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA)

We are Landbased Engineering

Inside Agri-Turf is produced, edited and published by Chris Biddle [email protected]

Chris Biddle welcomes Mark Earles of Makita UK, the President of the Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA), to Inside Agri-Turf, where they delve deep into the intricacies of the agricultural engineering sector. The conversation begins with a reflection on how the industry has evolved over the years, particularly in light of recent challenges and opportunities, such as the ongoing sustainability discourse.

Mark shares insights from his early career, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in engineering roles. He recounts his pathway from aircraft engineering to the outdoor power equipment market, illustrating how diverse experiences shape one's professional journey.

The discussion opens with the critical role of agricultural engineers in ensuring food security and the necessity for a renewed appreciation for farmers and engineers alike.

LINKS

Agricultural Engineers Association

We Are Landbased Engineering campaign

European Garden Machinery industry Federation

Dr Mark Moore, the Director of Government Affairs for AGCO Corporation in Europe and President of the Institution of Agricultural Engineers (IAgrE) shares his inspiring journey from a modest academic background to a key position with a global farm machinery corporation.

He discusses the critical role agricultural engineers play in addressing the challenges of feeding a growing global population, emphasizing the need for innovation and collaboration across the food production chain.

Mark's experiences, including overcoming a life-threatening illness and his extensive work in precision farming, highlight the importance of practical knowledge and adaptability in the industry.

Throughout the conversation, he underscores the necessity for engineers to work closely with farmers, policymakers, and various stakeholders to create effective solutions for sustainable agriculture which is the theme of the upcoming IAgrE Conference.

LINKS

Institution of Agricultural Engineers (IAgrE)

IAgrE 2024 Conference: 'What we want from Agricultural Engineers' 6 November

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Inside Agri-Turf is produced, edited and published by Chris Biddle [email protected]

Chris Biddle is in conversation with Geoff Webb, the Chief Executive of the Grounds Management Exhibition (GMA). The episode spotlights the GMA's upcoming SALTEX trade exhibition, highlighting its significance to the turf management industry.

First, they pay tribute to Derek Walder, rightly referred to as Mr SALTEX. Now in his late 80s, Derek is retiring this year having worked on and managed 42 editions of the trade show.

Geoff talks about the ongoing evolution of the show and its role in connecting important stakeholders from government bodies, leading sporting bodies and influential buyers to suppliers and those working in an increasingly important sector.

The discussion also touches on the increasing pressures faced by grounds teams as the demands of modern sports grow, emphasizing the need for adequate resources and support for these professionals. With a focus on innovation and education, this episode showcases how the GMA and SALTEX continues to be a pivotal platform for the industry's future.

LINKS

Grounds Management Association (GMA)

2024 SALTEX

Grounds Management Framework

Inside Agri-Turf is produced, edited and published by Chris Biddle [email protected]

In this 'Views from the Long Grass' feature, Chris and Keith Christian discuss the proliferation of turfcare shows such as SALTEX, BTME and now Groundsfest and ask whether this is overkill for a small industry.

Keith shares his experiences from decades in the sector, including memorable moments and insights into what makes an effective trade show.

The episode also touches on possible changes and considerations for future events, balancing indoor and outdoor formats, and the importance of ‘pressing the flesh’ at these events.

Inside Agri-Turf is devised, recorded and edited by Chris Biddle [email protected]