Melbourne’s Showgrounds hosted the second FutureAg expo in August, with a trade show complemented by a conference
After switching from May to August, there was a noticeable increase in crowds during FutureAg’s opening day.
The event, powered by leading German event Agritechnica, featured a wide range of agricultural technology from both local and overseas companies.
This technology, which includes everything from satellite navigation systems to mapping programs, aims to be a showcase of the innovations which will shape farming’s future.
It is complemented by a range of popular agricultural machinery such as tractors and telehandlers from various manufacturers, with more than 100 exhibitors inside the hall.
Here are some of the machinery highlights during the event:
Merlo telehandler
The Multifarmer 44.9 was one unit which Merlo chose to display at FutureAg.
Supported by several key members of its Australian team, Merlo was there to tell customers about the unique Multifarmer features which combines the benefits of tractors and telehandlers.
This particular unit offers a 9m lift height, 4,400kg maximum lift capacity and 170hp engine, and has the greatest lift height of what Merlo offers locally within the Multifarmer range.
Comfort, efficiency, performance and safety are the four areas which Merlo says has been crucial to the machine’s development.
JSG lubricants
Lubricants provider JSG Industrial Systems displayed a range of its products, particularly those designed for smaller machinery.
This included the Automatic Electric Cartridge Pump, which takes the hassle out of lubrication by providing small amounts of grease throughout the day to machinery while it is operating.
It is just one example of an automated system which JSG has the know-how to provide, and which can prevent major problems through undergreasing or overgreasing valuable machinery.
Other items on display were the OCL-M oil chain lubrication, and the SKF Lincoln Power Luber.
New Holland tractor
While the manufacturer may not have had a formal stand at FutureAg, New Holland’s T7.300 tractor was still on display after being introduced at last year’s event.
The T7.300 was introduced to offer a heavier and bigger framed tractor with more power but the same manoeuvrability.
This unit delivers 280hp rated power and a maximum of 300hp, with its 6.7L engine making it well equipped to handle big jobs.
It was also upgraded with New Holland’s Precision Land Management Intelligence that provides features such as IntelliSteer autosteering, IntelliTurn and ISOBUS compatibility.
MusterFire protection
An array of real-world fire suppression systems were being showcased by MusterFire.
These included compact foam systems, which can easily attach to machinery and provide an instant source of protection from issues such as overheating.
Different options are available for everything from tractors to harvesters to slashers, with some integrated systems providing fault alerts and monitoring to prevent issues.
MusterFire also gave visitors the option of booking a free fire risk assessment for their machinery and properties.
Allynav robot
Alllynav displayed its Aries300N orchard spraying robot, which is also suitable for the likes of vineyards and forestry sites.
This hybrid fuel-electric robot incorporates GNSS satellite navigation, autonomous driving and obstacle avoidance to deliver accurate and consistent spraying.
Its crawler chassis and compact design help with precise turning and comfortable operation of slopes of up to 30 degrees.
Remote control operation and real-time monitoring makes this a safe and efficient option for tricky spraying jobs.
Spread-a-Bale range
British made products were also represented thanks to Spread-a-Bale.
Designed as a new, efficient and safe way to spread straw, the machines also took centre stage during the tech demos and showed how a bale can be discharged within one minute and with minimal dust.
The company says its machines can spread all types of round and rectangular bales with up to 50 per cent straw saving and 75 per cent labour saving.
Low maintenance and running costs are highlighted as benefits, along with improved health due to minimal dust and an easy-to-operate design.
Landforce leveller
Landforce had the Sports model of its laser land leveller on display.
This was one of multiple machinery types which the Indian manufacturer showcased, along with disc harrows.
The land leveller uses a guided laser beam throughout the field to deliver even results and improve the land’s capability.
A heavy-duty frame is backed up by a host of features including a long scraping blade.
Robotti robot
The Robotti from AgroIntelli is described as an autonomous implement carrier which is designed for both horticulture and general farming.
It enables precise and accurate planting, with high capacity and efficiency enabled by the autonomous operation without a driver.
Soil, plant and operational data are also documented, giving farmers all the information they need about the machine’s performance.
It helps to reduce soil compaction, while safety features such as virtual fencing and radar obstacle detection are also included with farmers notified of any triggers.
Hangcha telehandler
Hangcha displayed one of its new additions – an X Series diesel telehandler.
This unit has a 4,000kg lift capacity and offers operational modes such as four-wheel crab steer, two-wheel front steer and four-wheel circle steer.
There is a maximum speed of 35kmh, along with a full-proportional joystick, ergonomic suspension seat and 17cm display that provides real-time monitoring.
The telehandler range complements an array of forklifts with Hangcha is known for and which was also on display.
Hanwo tractor
The 754-B tractor from Hanwo caught the eye for many visitors.
This 75hp unit is powered by a Quanchai diesel engine offers 4WD operation and 12 forward and reverse gears.
Front and rear counterweights boost traction and balance, while dual-speed PTO and two rear hydraulic remotes make it ideal for implement connections.
A full cabin with suspension seat and ergonomic layout makes it a comfortable tractor for users.
