Friday, 30 May 2025 12:55

Shearing legend hooked on CanAm

Written by  Mark Daniel
Sir David Fagan says that once you try a CanAm, you don’t go back. Sir David Fagan says that once you try a CanAm, you don’t go back.

Sir David Fagan, world-renowned competitive sheep shearer with 642 shearing titles worldwide and a knighthood to his name, now runs beef and dairy operations near Te Kuiti with wife Wendy and son Jack.

Farming in the region brings its share of challenges, especially the unpredictable climate, extended droughts and hilly terrain.

In light of these challenges, Sir David relies on a fleet of Can-Am side-by-sides, including a XMR Defender HD10, a Defender HD10 and an XT Defender HD10 Limited.

Having discovered the Can-Am brand after being encouraged by his local dealer to take a Defender test drive, Sir David was impressed by the superior design and performance of the Can-Am side-by-side, allowing himself and his family to get necessary tasks done around the farm, from carrying equipment to moving stock.

The enclosed cab ensures that everyone stays warm and dry during the area’s cold winters.

And ever practical, Sir David keeps a toolbox and a selection of tools under the front seat for any maintenance jobs around the farms.

The Visco-Lok autolocking front differential, which is customisable for different terrains, helps maintain control in slippery or uneven conditions on his undulating property.

Performance is also important, and Sir David knows the Can-Am Defenders are more than capable of handling any tasks in tough New Zealand conditions and can be relied on.

Recognising the importance of regular maintenance and valuing the relationship he has with his local dealer, he appreciates the fact that the 200-hour service intervals mean there’s less down time between visits.

“Once you try a Can- Am, you don’t go back,” says Sir David, who is optimistic about the future of farming, citing the essential role farmers play in food production and New Zealand’s agricultural exports.

Sir David Fagan is a rural ambassador of Can-Am and will be appearing on Can-Am’s Fieldays site (G66-68) throughout the event.

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