Queensland’s turf industry revelled in the first Paddock to Pitch field day this September which was a showcase of technologies, new equipment, and great innovations.
The day, held at All Turf Solutions at Tamborine in south-east Queensland (QLD), was an opportunity for turf growers and turf users to interact directly, checkout new genetics and machinery, and discuss upcoming projects and plans for the future.
The growers that attended found the day informative and a good chance to interact face-to-face with other turf professionals, which they haven’t had much opportunity to do over the past 18 months
Joining forces to host the day was Turf Queensland (TQ), Sports Turf Association Queensland (STAQ) and the Golf Course Superintendents Association of Queensland (QGCSA).
Also attending was TurfBreed who were the event’s major partner and proudly displayed their premium turf varieties in a front of house marquee.
According to QLD’s Business Development Manager, Daniel Pieper the day saw industry and growers come together and “… kick a few tyres, walk a few paddocks and generally catch-up with old and new friends that are integral to the turf grower community”.
“Importantly the day help to create innovation by us listening to passionate sports turf experts talk about what was relevant in their field.
“I feel that Turf QLD acted on the grower community’s appetite to meet in an informal environment to discuss the industry.”
Also in attendance was Steve Hampton representing LawnPride who has recently partnered with TurfBreed to supply premium lawn care products through the new myhomeTURF online shop.
“Many of the landscape suppliers and even people looking at turf for their own homes were keen to hear about myhomeTURF’s Lawn Care Guides and Resources, particularly being able to purchase products directly from the lawn care articles,” TurfBreed’s Senior Research Scientist for TurfRND Dr Andrew Fletcher said.
“Growers were very receptive to the concept of myhomeTURF and grower branded online stores as they are keen to maintain a relationship with customers after delivery and receive profits from sales without having to stock or handle any product.”
TurfBreed was also part of the speaker line-up with Andrew discussing TurfRND and plans for the future in the research program.
“TurfBreed is committed to having the best new genetics available and providing growers and clients with accurate scientific data on turf performance, so they know they are growing and selling the best turf possible,” Andrew explained.
Demonstrations were also held throughout the day to showcase machinery and allow attendees to see them in action.
As All Turf Solutions was in the process of renovating the paddock where the Field Day was staged, vendors were afforded the unique opportunity to put their machinery to work on the ground with mowing, dethatching, cultivation and top-making displays.