Success for Argo tractors
The judges at last year’s Agritechnica event picked the Italian-built Landini Rex 4-120GT Robo- Shift Dynamic as the Best of Specialised category at its Tractor of the Year 2024 Awards.
The Case IH Optum turned heads at Agritechnica in November last year, where it won the Machine of the Year 2016 Award. The first examples are due here this month.
Fitting between the Puma and Magnum ranges and with compact dimensions and lighter weight, the Optum CVT is produced at the St. Valentin factory in Austria.
It utilises the proven FPT 6.7L NEF engine to deliver 270 and 300hp at rated speed.
This rises to a maximum of 313hp as the engine comes under load, at a torque of 1282NM at 1400 rpm. The engine meets the latest Tier4B emission regulations using SCR technology; the tractor is set up to carry 630L of fuel and 96L of Ad-Blue liquid.
The transmission is a carry-over from the LWB Puma range, but with upgrades such as strengthened castings, a new rear axle and double planetary final drives to handle the increased power.
Speed is steplessly variable from 20m/sec to 53km/h, and the active stop feature means the tractor need not be held on the brakes while stationary.
A load bearing sump assembly acts as a backbone, keeping tare weight down; this allows operating weights up to 16,000kg, which helps get the extra power to the ground without compromising the tractor's agility.
A rear lift capacity of 11,058kg combines with the ability to lift 5821kg up front, and a CCLS hydraulic system offers up to 220L/min output; steering and transmission systems are separate.
A new reactive steering system has the steering wheel return to the straight-ahead position after turns, to make high speed work more comfortable, and a headland management function takes care of repetitive tasks in the paddock.
Connectivity with implements is by an Isobus 3 plug-and-play system.
The golden age of orcharding in West Auckland was recently celebrated at the launch of a book which tells the story of its rise, then retreat in the face of industry change and urban expansion.
Everyone from experienced veterinarians and young professionals to the Wormwise programme and outstanding clinics have been recognised in this year’s New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA) awards. As part of a series looking at this year’s rural winners, Leo Argent talked with Ginny Dodunski, winner of the Veterinary Impact Award for raising the profile of the Wormwise programme.
Recently two of New Zealand's top Maori sheep and beef farms held field days as part of the prestigious Ahuwhenua Trophy competition. The two are: Whangaroa Ngaiotonga Trust, northeast of Whangarei, and the proprietors of Tawapata Onenui farm on Mahia Peninsula in southern Hawke's Bay. Reporter Peter Burke attended both field days.
The New Zealand hemp industry is hoping for quick and comprehensive reform of its legislative framework after a recent "historic" visit to sites in Canterbury by a big group of politicians, officials and industry stakeholders.
Resolving rural sector disputes constructively, fairly and with long-term outcomes in mind will top the agenda at a gathering of experts in Hamilton next month.
Among the regular exhibitors at last month’s South Island Agricultural Field Days, the one that arguably takes the most intensive preparation every time is the PGG Wrightson Seeds site.