The Beba family’s John Deere model B, being shown by Gordon Carson, at work in 1949 and featuring farmworker Peter Moules (seated).

A unique exhibit for a one-of-a-kind tractor

Rather than a brand, the specially-themed class focuses on a tractor ‘concept’ originating from the 1930s in the USA, where the machines were traditionally three-wheeled to straddle rows in the field and were often set high off the ground to clear crops like maize or cotton.

The wide range of tractor makes qualifying for this class, like Allis Chalmers, Massey-Harris, Fordson, John Deere and Farmall to name a few, promises to attract entries never exhibited at the show before, says Paul Ducksbury of the show’s organising committee.

“Many of the tractors we’ll see will be classic ‘row crop’ configuration, with two small wheels in front, spaced together to create a tricycle tractor,” he explains.

Paul himself is bringing five exhibits – a 1947 Fordson, two International Harvesters and two John Deeres – and has high hopes of the range of vehicles that will be on display in this class.

All the way from Minnesota, USA

One of the furthest-flung entries for this special class at the Newark Vintage Tractor & Heritage Show is from Larry Roers of Minnesota, USA, who has teamed up with Worcester-based vintage tractor importer Richard Keel to bring over a 1966 Ford 4000 Rowcrop (4200) specially for the event – and will be flying over to attend in person.

According to Richard, the tractor was made for North American market and features a longer wheelbase than UK counterparts, higher clearance for row crop work, and a flat deck operating platform to let the driver sit much higher to give better visibility.

“When new, it would’ve been used in the production and growing of corn – what we call maize – and soybeans,” explains Richard.

“But advances in both machinery and growing techniques meant tractors like this became outdated within a few years, so they ended up on light duties around the yard.”

A proud Peter Moules, who sadly passed away in 2022, back sitting on the restored model B.

The return of a familiar face

Other entries include a 1941 John Deere model B row crop tractor owned by Wisbech farmer Bryan Beba, and shown by fellow enthusiast Gordon Carson. Gordon, who has exhibited at every Newark Vintage Tractor & Heritage Show apart from the first, says this John Deere is special to him, as it was the one that first got him and Bryan into the world of restoring and showing vintage tractors.

“Bryan’s father had it from new. It then sat in the back of the shed until the late ’90s, when I suggested getting it out and seeing if we could get it going. It was the most expensive suggestion of our lives! Now we have quite a prestigious collection,” he adds.

John Deere

With John Deere the predominant tractor brand in the USA over the last 100 years, it’s not surprising they are a strong presence in this category. Henry and Margaret Dixon from Pembrokeshire will be bringing a 1963 John Deere Hi Crop row crop tractor they bought 20 years ago after spotting it in a dealership while on holiday in South Dakota.

The 92hp tractor, of which only 170 were made, was originally built for working with cotton and sugar cane, and has wide front and back axles for row cropping and carrying a cultivator underneath.

Wyn Mathias’ Allis Chalmers model C undergoing its re-restoration in preparation for this year’s show

A shared joy

Also making the journey from Pembrokeshire will be Wyn Mathias with his 1941 Allis Chalmers Model C. He’s been showing tractors since he was a child, but this will be only his fourth year at the Newark event, making him a relative newcomer.

From new, his tractor was on potato harvest duties in Wyn’s local area, mainly fitted with ‘ridgers’ to open drills for planting the potatoes and covering them up.

“It was bought by my grandfather in a poor state. He stripped the engine but it then got left for several years. Aged 14, I started to take interest in the tractor and my grandfather said if I could get it going, I could have it.”

Take advantage of discounted tickets

For a limited time only, discounted tickets are available for the Newark Vintage Tractor and Heritage Show, on 4th-5 thNovember at Newark Showground.

The post Celebrating the heritage of Row Crop Tractors at Newark Vintage Tractor Show appeared first on Farmers Guide.

What is a Brit Stops host?

Brit Stops is a scheme for motorhomers to explore the UK. When they purchase Brit Stops, they get one year of unlimited stopovers at 1,100+ Brit Stops locations, including pubs, vineyards, aires, farm shops, and other varied businesses too.

Motorhomers are always looking for great places to stop while on the road, and your farm can be one of them, the company says. Brit Stops is a well-established scheme that has been operating for over eight years and has over 26,000 users.

What are the benefits?

By inviting motorhomers to your farm, Brit Stops says you can reach its large audience, based throughout the UK and Ireland. “Our members are always looking for lovely spots to stay overnight and, as most of them are retired couples, they often have disposable income to spend at the farm shop. We also manage our members with a recognised code of conduct, so you won’t have anyone setting up an awning or hanging their washing out!”

Visitors should not be under any obligation to buy, but the company has found that nine out of 10 Britstoppers end up spending some money with its hosts. They’ve saved their campsite fees and usually need to top up the fridge or have dinner. Depending on the time of year and how many spaces you have available, you might see anywhere from 1–10 motorhomers a week, which can really drive extra custom, Brit Stops suggests.

How do I become a Brit Stops host?

Becoming a host is easy. There are no fees or contracts and the sign-up is simple. A detailed entry on the Brit Stops website/app is free to hosts. No facilities are needed and it costs you nothing. All you have to do is offer Brit Stops members a one-night free stopover in your car park.

Sign up to become a Brit Stops host.

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Rivermead Minx Candy VG89 scooped the prestigious interbreed championship.

Rivermead Minx Candy VG89 scoops interbreed championship

Riding on a tide of success, having won her class at UK Dairy Day in 2022, Rivermead Minx Candy VG89 scooped the prestigious interbreed championship. Exhibited by Emily Davis, this home-bred Jersey cow had her third calf just three weeks ago and is already yielding 33 litres/day. Sired by Stonyrun Aus Tbone Minx, she was placed as champion Jersey at Dairy Expo earlier this year too.

“Jerseys are our passion, and to reach the top is amazing,” said Emily Davis. “It’s the first time we’ve won at this show, and it’s just fantastic.” Emily also enjoyed success with the family’s other home-bred entrants, winning the National Jersey Championship, reserve champion and reserve honourable mention.

Based near Tiverton, Devon, the Davis family milk 230 cows, and all share the Jersey passion, including Emily, her brothers, sisters and parents.

Reserve interbreed title bestowed on Thuborough Freda 610

Thuborough Farms’ Holstein senior cow, shown by Roland Ley, took the reserve interbred title. Another home-bred, Thuborough Freda 610 is rated EX95 and is yielding 48 litres after having her fourth calf in March. Roland has never previously won the breed championship at the Dairy Show, despite a string of previous successes. “So to get breed champion and reserve interbreed is a great result.”

Before her success at the Dairy Show, Freda won the breed and interbreed championship at the Devon County Show and was breed champion at the Royal Cornwall Show. “She’s got a really good udder and is very youthful despite being a fourth-calver,” said Roland. “She has a lovely balance and moves really well.”

Hosting the Guernsey National Show

The Dairy Show 2023 played host to the Guernsey National Show, which was won by the Greenslade family’s Greensfield Dandy Dan Butterfly. “It means a lot to us,” said exhibitor Emma Greenslade. “We work quite hard with our breeding, and we bred both her and the sire behind her – Greensfield Dandy Dan. His dam won at UK Dairy Day and here, and now we’ve done the double again.”

UK Dairy Day and the Dairy Show were Butterfly’s first two shows, and she claimed the breed championship at both. “She’d never been shown before – I dragged her out of the shed a week before Dairy Day. She’s just so quiet,” said Emma.

The family milk 100 cows near Cullompton, Devon, and this second-calver; who calved in August, is giving 25 litres/day.

The other breed champions were: Ayrshire Rosehill Madison Jelly VG87, Dairy Shorthorn Churchroyd Bronte Wildeyes 63, and British Friesian Greenway Solo Billie Jo.

Full results from the competitions can be found on The Dairy Show’s website.

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Suffolk event showground Stonham Barns Park held its very first Land Rover Show on Sunday 8th October, having invited the public and motor clubs to pre-register a host of vehicles for display alongside exhibitors.

A colourful sea of classic and modern Land Rovers greeted ticket holders, celebrating the iconic 4×4 manufacturer with a unique and wide ranging display of models. Seemingly, at least one example of every model that Land Rover ever produced was present to be admired by enthusiasts of all ages.

@farmersguide_ The Land Rover Show at Stonham Barns, Suffolk, today provided the perfect Sunday outing Seemingly, at least one example of every model the manufacturer ever made was present to be admired by visitors of all ages – including an immaculate 1949 Series 1 #LandRover #FarmVehicle #Defender #4×4 #UKFarming #RangeRover ♬ Born to Be Wild (from “Easy Rider”) – Movie Soundtrack All Stars

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Before even reaching for a rodenticide, the best practice is to carry out environmental management such as proofing buildings and tidying the site, then explore non-chemical control methods such as utilising natural predators or using instant-kill traps.

When chemical control is required, many don’t realise that bait rotation is vital to long-term success. Laurence Barnard comments: “Effective rodent control isn’t just about choosing the right bait. Of course, factors such as speed of control, potency, and palatability are incredibly important, but it is critical to alternate your baits.

“The reason for this is two-fold – some of the biggest challenges facing farmers are rodenticide resistance and bait shyness.”

Tackling resistance and boredom

Farmers should utilise rodenticides that contain either cholecalciferol or flocoumafen as the active ingredient, as there is no known resistance to either active. Ideally, usage should be rotated between the two to prevent any possible future resistance developing.

Switching between two highly palatable rodenticides will ensure they remain an attractive food source, encouraging rodents to continue feeding.

Laurence adds: “Of course, the rodenticide used must be highly palatable and potent. However, product stewardship is essential to ensure the future-proofing of effective solutions on the market and safeguard the pest management toolbox.”

How often to rotate baits

It is recommended that rodenticides should be changed every three to four months as best practice, with a minimum of every six months, to ensure a long-term, successful pest management programme.

Ideally, farmers should switch between rodenticides with a different active ingredient to ensure an effective treatment. BASF offers a range of resistance-busting rodenticides, such as the award-winning cholecalciferol-active Selontra and the highly powerful flocoumafen-active in Storm Secure and Storm Ultra Secure.

Neither Selontra nor the Storm products have any known resistance, and both offer a fast, effective solution to allow farmers to rotate their baits throughout the year without unknowingly contributing to rodenticide resistance or behavioural issues.

Top tips for an effective rodent programme

The best way to deal with rodents is to prevent them becoming active in the first place, so ‘rodent-proof’ your sites now to protect profits this winter.

Particularly at this time of year when temperatures begin to dip, rats and mice will be looking for warm harbourage where food sources are readily available, making buildings where animal feed or crops are stored very appealing.

1. Keep site clean and tidy. It may seem simple, but keeping sites tidy should become a regular part of any farmer’s maintenance routine. Keep pallets and sacks to a minimum as these make for the perfect harbourage, and remove any rubbish or unwanted stores of straw and hay as soon as possible to give rats and mice less time to move in.
2. Cut back vegetation and bushes around buildings. Rats fear open spaces, so by trimming back shrubbery by at least 1m around all buildings on land, they will be less inclined to cross an open yard to enter a building. This also allows farmers to readily observe any rat burrows, and gives natural predators more chance of spotting the pests too.
3. Rodent-proof buildings. Mice can get through gaps of 6mm and rats can get through gaps of 10mm. So carefully inspect any buildings, stores or outhouses for wear and tear in walls, piping, doors and windows. Use a hardwearing material like metal sheeting to prevent rodents from re-entering through any compromised areas, as rats can chew through everything from wooden posts to dry walls.
4. Inspect buildings for signs of an existing infestation. Visible footprints at ground level or on ledges, smear marks along ledges, walls or cables, damage in structures and equipment from gnaw marks, and droppings are all tell-tale signs of activity. Don’t forget to look at electrical wires and cabling – many farm fires have been caused by rodents chewing through electrical wires.
5. Store animal feed and grain safely. Taking measures to prevent animal feed or grain from being contaminated and consumed is an important step. Rats can carry up to 45 dangerous diseases which can pose a serious health and safety issue. Ensure stores are thoroughly cleaned and inspect every inch for any entry points or damage where rodents may enter and clean up any food spills immediately.
6. Monitor for activity. Using a Monitoring Paste will help farmers spot rodent activity before an infestation can get out of hand. It also means any rodents in the area will become more familiar with the object, reducing neophobia when the monitoring baits are replaced with rodenticide. An alternative monitoring method is to leave a patch of sand along a suspected rat run overnight and look for paw marks in the sand the next day.

Further expert advice is available and additional advice on BASF’s specialty rodent control solutions can be found on its website.

The post Rotate your bait: the key to a successful rodent programme appeared first on Farmers Guide.

The winning 1970 David Brown 880 exhibited by Neil Reid in 2003 retuning for the show’s 20th anniversary this year.

A British heritage to celebrate

Looking forward to the event is local farm contractor and vintage tractor collector Paul Ducksbury, who has been involved in the show since the start, living just 14 miles north of the Newark showground.

Paul says: “Little did we know what a success the show would become when we were planning the first one in 2003; it’s gone from strength to strength.

“The George Stephenson Hall was added to the facilities in 2006; then tractors from other shows were nominated in a ‘People’s Choice’ class, creating a really diverse range of exhibits. Now, two decades later, the event is seen as the pinnacle of the year – the highlight at the end of the season.”

For Paul, one of the most memorable classes in the event’s history was ‘100 years of Fordson’ in 2017, to which he took 34 tractors. “The first Fordson was built in the US in 1917, and manufacture this side of the Atlantic started just two years later in 1919 in Ireland, before moving to Dagenham in 1923. Having the whole range on display in 2017 was quite a sight,” he says.

Another favourite exhibit of his was a unique adaption of a Minneapolis-Moline tractor which he saw on display in 2004. “It wasn’t the original tractor, but two tractors joined together by the owner John Hayward of Bilsthorpe near Newark, to give it four-wheel drive and 100hp. The Minneapolis-Molines were only manufactured for a short time in the UK between 1946 and 1949, so it was an unforgettable sight.”

(Front L to R) B Hollingworth, x, G Riley, A Johnston, D Green, E Dodds, B Main, J Main, P Clements. Back LtoR R King, M Hart, L Dodds, T King.

Welcoming familiar faces (and engines!)

While Paul lives close to the show, it also attracts regular competitors from further afield. One such example is the Reid family, who run a hydraulic engineering business in Arbroath, some 350 miles from the site – yet they are keen enthusiasts who have made the journey to Newark every year since the show started.

In 2003, Neil Reid took a 1970 David Brown 880 Selectamatic and won ‘best David Brown’ and the ‘Concours 1965-78 Classic’. The tractor has returned many times over the years, winning the ‘Heritage Machinery Shield’ in 2007 and ‘best David Brown’ again in 2011 – and it’s making a triumphant return this year to feature in the 20th anniversary display.

Another vehicle which is returning to the showground after its first appearance at the very first show is an International Farmall H, owned by Dan Bartle. “This tractor was bought by Joseph Camm Farms, Retford in 1948 and used as their main tractor for specialist row crop work in the springtime,” explains Dan.

“After many years of service, the tractor was loaned out to the local agricultural museum and put on show to the public. After a few years, the museum unfortunately closed, leaving the tractor abandoned. The original owners contacted me and my uncle in 1998 to rescue the tractor, along with a Fordson N tractor which the farm owned too.

“Both tractors were recovered and restoration began,” he notes. “My uncle restored the International Farmall, replacing many parts, as well as importing the correct replacement tyres from the USA. He took this tractor to a lot of local rallies including the first Newark tractor show in 2003. I inherited this tractor back in 2022 and now have both tractors.”

Another show stalwart contributing to the anniversary this year is James Hardstaff, a farmer from just north of Nottingham. He, too, is bringing a tractor that featured in the very first show.

“It was a prize-winner then – a 1954 Fordson Major County Four Drive. I originally bought it from a scrap yard just south of the Dartford Tunnel back in 1998,” he says. “It took me four years to restore, then I showed it during the 2003 season, ending up at the first vintage tractor show at Newark. I’m pleased to be bringing it back this year for the 20^th anniversary display.”

For a limited time only, discounted tickets are available for the Newark Vintage Tractor and Heritage Show, held on 4th-5th November at Newark Showground. Visit the show’s website to purchase your tickets and to find more information.

The post 20th anniversary for Newark Vintage Tractor & Heritage Show appeared first on Farmers Guide.

Convenient online courses for farmers

“Our experience is that attending courses in person often proves challenging for a variety of reasons for farm staff, but there is an ever-increasing demand for quality training to meet milk buyer/Red Tractor requirements,” says Pete O’Malley, vet at Synergy Farm Health. “There is a lack of quality online training available for the production animal industry – but there is definite demand for training farm staff in subjects like youngstock health, medicine training, and downer cows. This doesn’t necessarily have to be delivered one-to-one, they can be studied at the individual’s convenience.”

The courses – which are bite-sized modules of video learning followed by an online test at the end – have taken some time to create, and the first to become available is Safe Use of Veterinary Medicines in Cattle. This will soon be followed by Safe Use of Veterinary Medicines in Sheep, care of the downer cow, cattle handling, lameness management, and youngstock health management.

Trainees can undertake the courses in their own time, and once successfully completed, receive a certificate and DairyPro points, which can be used for their Red Tractor assurance. “We know that farmers have difficult working hours and limited travelling time,” says Mr O’Malley. “Hopefully this online training overcomes those obstacles.”

Carefully designed training for farmers and farm workers

Rhian Baker at FAW Bakers, Rushywood Farm, Somerset, has already been using the system for training farm staff. “The Synergy Farm training platform creates an easy way to train our staff and keep a record of their progress, using the MCQ assessments to assess operator knowledge,” she explains. “We use it both as a part of an induction process and for refresher training. Since rolling the training out it has received positive feedback from our team.”

Mr O’Malley hopes that the training will help farmers across the UK and further afield. “We have carefully designed our learning platform to be video-based, accessible from either a computer or your phone, incorporating subtitles and translation tools to ensure our training is accessible to as many people as possible.”

Synergy Farm Health is a proudly independent veterinary practice, delivering high quality healthcare and specialist advice for farm animals, through its experienced and locally based teams. The team includes several nationally-recognised specialists, and embraces the latest technology and innovation to provide a first-class service. As well as vet and vet technician services, the firm provides medicines, training and events, sampling and laboratory facilities and research and consultancy.

Synergy will be officially launching the online training at the Dairy Show on 4th October. Staff will be on hand to give live demonstrations and answer any questions producers might have. More information can be found on the Synergy website.

The post Vets launch online training for farmers appeared first on Farmers Guide.

Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster is the pickup version of the Grenadier SUV.

Take advantage of new products

The machinery market is ever evolving, as farmers attempt to do more with less and find equipment which has multiple functions. “It’s great that so many exhibitors find the show the best place to launch their new products,” says show organiser, Elizabeth Halsall.

Visitors to Midlands Machinery Show will be able to see the new Valtra Q Series

Chandlers – the Fendt 728 tractor, the Valta Q series and the Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster

On the Chandlers stand, there will be three new pieces of kit for visitors to see – the Fendt 728 tractor, the Valta Q series and the Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster pickup. The Valta offers improved precision technology and driver comfort, while winner of Tractor of the Year 2023, the Fendt 728 includes a new six-cylinder engine, optional 60in track width and a new generation of the Fendt Cargo front loader.

The Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster is the pickup version of the Grenadier SUV; with its similar boxy looks it has been designed as a double cab to seat five people. Stretched by 305mm compared to the SUV, it has a maximum payload of 760kg.

New VDR 900 VF Technology tyre

VDR 900 VF Technology tyre

BA Bush and Son will be unveiling the new VDR 900 VF Technology tyre, which is designed to handle 40% more load than a conventional radial tyre, or the same load at 40% lower pressure. The VDR 900 also features stronger lugs with a larger contact patch to give better traction, which decreases slippage, reduces fuel consumption and increases overall productivity.

“The VDR 900 benefits from Ascenso’s unique Mudbreaker technology, which consists of a vertical cleat on the lug which breaks down the soil and stops it sticking to the tyre,” notes Matt Smith at BA Bush and Son. “This not only enhances the tyre’s self-cleaning ability but also allows for better grip in the field.”

Husarya stone picker

New to the UK market is the Husarya stone picker, which removes stones with a diameter of 2.5-50cm, has a working depth of 20cm and is up to 5.5m wide. It launched in Poland to address a common problem in both Poland and the UK – to remove stones from fields prior to cultivation.

“It’s exciting to have such a range of new products at the show, once again demonstrating the innovative nature of agriculture,” says Mrs Halsall. “One of the brilliant things about the show is that it brings together the relevant people, businesses, and organisations to create two focused and dynamic days.

The Fendt 728 tractor can be seen at the Midlands Machinery Show.

Fuel management from MeritAgCheck

A vital cog in farming operations is fuel, and a new app from MeritAgCheck aims to help farmers keep a handle on fuel management by tracking and monitoring fuel consumption.

The details

Registration and parking are free but pre-registration is required for the Midlands Machinery Show, which runs from 8th-9th November at the Newark Showground. NRoSO and BASIS points are also available for attendees.

Register your attendance.

The post New products in abundance at Midlands Machinery Show appeared first on Farmers Guide.

The new 600 Vario series tractors are designed to compete for a large market share in one of the most popular and competitive market sectors, where tractors with power outputs from 150–200hp meet the needs of arable, livestock and mixed farms and many operate with front loaders.

Fendt’s new models fill the gap between the current 500 Vario and the 700 Vario Gen 6 series. The gap relates more to model numbering than power outputs, as there is already a crossover between the most powerful 516 Vario with up to 163hp, and the current entry 714 Vario with 144hp. However, the new 700 Vario Gen 7 line-up, announced last year, starts at 203hp and Fendt has already confirmed that the 714 Vario and 716 Vario models will be discontinued in late 2024 – coinciding with early deliveries of the new 600 Vario.

The Fendt press event attended by Farmers Guide allowed the completely new 600 Vario tractors to be put through their paces – including pulling a 6m cultivator in hard, dry conditions.

Introducing the 600 Vario

There are four new 600 Vario models starting with the 164hp 614 Vario. They all use Fendt’s Dynamic Performance design strategy which compensates for parasitic losses including powering lights, air conditioning, power steering and other tractor systems to ensure full power is available at any speed and for any application.

Model line-up

Fendt 600 Vario          Hp (max incl Dynamic Performance)

614 Vario                     164

616 Vario                     184

618 Vario                     204

620 Vario                     224

Power is from a brand-new AgcoPower 4-cyl, 5-litre engine. The Core 50 power unit is described by Fendt as ‘little brother’ to the 6-cylinder Core 75 fitted in the new 700 Vario Gen 7 tractors. The Core 50 has hydraulic tappets to reduce maintenance requirements (services every 500 hours), an electronic wastegate turbocharger which contributes to the flat torque curve, and it is future-proofed with synthetic fuel compatibility. The new engine has also been designed to operate on methane if models fuelled by the gas are offered in future.

224hp from a brand new 5.0-litre, 4-cyl engine. Conventional cooling is used.

id low engine speed concept

Like larger Fendt models, the 600 Vario series utilises the id low engine speed concept to maximise efficiency and save fuel. Maximum power is at only 1,900rpm and the flagship 620 Vario develops its impressive maximum 950NM of torque across a wide rev range from 1,200–1,600rpm. The Fendt 620 Vario gains the mantle of the industry’s most powerful 4-cyl tractor, and compared to other makes and models the revs are extremely low.

Fendt UK marketing manager, Ed Dennett told Farmers Guide that the power and torque characteristics of the new 600 Vario series are like those of competitors’ much larger 6-cylinder engine models.

Exhaust emission regulations are met using SCR (AdBlue) only, with DPF and a DOC, and there is no EGR. The design maximises efficiency and avoids high operating temperatures. AdBlue consumption is quoted as 6.5% relative to the volume of diesel.

The cooling pack is compact and neat to maximise forward visibility, and a conventional belt-driven fan layout is used rather than the concentric hydraulic-drive design of latest larger models. Viscous drive matches the cooling power to the requirement. For the most demanding applications, a hydraulic blade pitch adjustment option can be specified. This also allows the air flow to be temporarily reversed to blow loose debris and dust from the air intake grill and cooling system. Its operation can be managed through the FendtONE terminal so that it activates automatically at timed intervals or at each headland turn, for example.

Production starts in July.

With VarioDrive

Like the larger models, the 600 Vario features VarioDrive transmission and a new T150 version of the gearbox has been developed for the smaller tractors. Using one pump supplying oil to two separate drive motors, it automatically adjusts power distribution between the front and rear axles, and 4wd is automatically engaged whenever it provides an advantage. A single operating speed range from 0–50kph means there is no need for users to select field or transport working modes, and at higher road speeds the drive to the front wheels completely disconnects to avoid losses through the system. A benefit of delivering drive independently to the front and rear axles is that, during tight turns, the front wheels can be accelerated to pull the tractor around in the steering direction. The result is an incredibly tight turning radius of only 10.2m on 540/65R30 front tyres.

The system also avoids front wheel lead issues as the speed of each axle is matched, whether turning or travelling in a straight line. Tyre wear is reduced and less power and fuel are wasted, especially during loader operations on hard surfaces.

Visibility to the front is excellent through the panoramic curved screen. The dashboard display can show essential performance information, field maps, camera views or Isobus-connected implements.

Lightweight and versatile

The 600 Vario models all share a 2.72m wheelbase – 6cm shorter than the 700 Vario Gen 6, and the same as the older 820 Vario. With a front linkage and PTO, the 600 Vario models weigh 7.7t unladen, but have an impressive 13.5t gross vehicle weight allowing them to be heavily ballasted for maximum traction to make the most of the impressive pulling capability, or to carry large implements including high-capacity spreaders and sprayers.

Standard tyres are 650/65R42 at the rear and 540/65R30 at the front. Fendt VarioGrip central tyre inflation is an option, capable of inflating the tyres by 1Bar in under five minutes. Ed commented that it wasn’t previously an option for mid-sized models, but that 80% of 800 Vario and 900 Vario tractors sold in recent years have been specified with the system.

The 600 Vario models can be ballasted to 13.5t. Standard wheel and tyre equipment includes 650/65R42 tyres at the rear and 5,40/65R30 at the front.

Impressive hydraulics

The new models boast impressive hydraulic capability. The standard pump supplies 152 litres/min, but an optional upgrade to 205 litres/min is available. A maximum of five hydraulic spools can be specified at the rear and power-beyond is an option. Like the new 700 Vario Gen7 models, the new 600 Vario can be equipped with a dedicated valve block with three oil supply outlets for the front loader, leaving other valves available for implements. Two additional spools can be fitted at the front. Capability to tip large trailers and work with complex implements is ensured with up to 65 litres of oil available for use off-board.

Many 600 Vario tractors will be bought for loader work. A new Cargo 5.90 front loader has been designed specially, with 3.46t lift capacity and 4.5m maximum lift height. Load weighing is an option.

New front loaders

New front loaders have been added to the range for the 600 Vario tractors. The most powerful Fendt Cargo 5.90 loader lifts up to 3.46t and has a maximum lift height of 4.5m. It is available with a weighing function.

An optional 3L joystick can be added to operate the loader, enabling three hydraulic functions to be performed simultaneously – and making it especially suitable for silage grabs. It also includes shift buttons for forward and reverse, allowing loader and driving control using only one hand while the other operates the steering wheel.

Fendt also demonstrated a new optional steering joystick at the event. This mounts on an armrest on the left side of the driver’s seat and allows proportional and effortless steering from lock to lock by moving the handle from side to side.

The VisioPlus cab is spacious, comfortable and quiet.

FendtONE cab

Fendt has equipped the 600 Vario series with the FendtONE operating concept. This was introduced on 700 Vario Gen6 tractors approximately four years ago and gives operators great flexibility in tailoring the controls and displays to suit personal preferences and the task. A multifunction joystick, 10in digital dashboard and a 12in touch terminal on the armrest are standard and an additional 12in drop-down touch terminal can be added in the cab roof on the right-hand side. Almost any operating information including tractor settings and performance data, GPS field maps and Isobus-implement displays can be allocated to any of the screens, and there is also the option to show the same information on multiple screens or divide the screens into sections each displaying different images or data. There is full compatibility with Fendt precision farming systems including Fendt Guide guidance, Fendt Section Control and Fendt Variable Rate Control, and Fendt Connect telematics are standard.

The FendtONE armrest provides plenty of opportunities for operators to set-up the controls to suit the task and their preferences.

Generous specification

The VisioPlus cab has Cat 2 air filtration as standard, and Cat 4 air filtration is an option. Like larger 700 Vario models, the new 600 Vario has a panoramic curved windscreen providing a clear view of the front loader at maximum height. The low, narrow bonnet allows a superb view to the front, including down to the wheels, and the standard front wiper has a 300-degree sweep area. An optional right-side window wiper sweeps 97 degrees for a clear view to the side.

The air conditioning system is significantly upgraded and quoted cab noise levels of just 68db contribute to operator comfort. There is a choice of seats, including the top specification with integral heating and cooling, four-way lumbar support, adjustable side bolsters, massage functions and a memory function allowing saved user profiles to be stored and retrieved by selecting them on the touch-terminal.

The Kockerling 4m cultivator working hard, dry ground took a lot of pulling, but the 600 Vario had plenty of power and traction.

Test drive – how did the 600 Vario perform?

The two tractors at the press event were the only two 600 Vario tractors manufactured so far in the finished guise, and one of these was due to be cleaned up after the test-drive and prepared for exhibiting on the stand at Agritechnica.

Both tractors were the most powerful 620 Vario model. One was equipped with the new Cargo 5.90 front loader, and the other was attached to a 4m cultivator.

The FendtONE cab is comfortable and well laid out. The top-specification seat with pneumatic suspension was fitted.

The 4m Kockerling Trio cultivator working stiff, dry ground allowed the tractor’s power and traction capabilities to be thoroughly tested. Using the hydraulic top-link, the implement working angle was easily adjusted to vary the working depth of the front row of tines. A working speed of 9.7kph was set on the cruise control, and as the tines were forced progressively deeper into the ground, the engine note deepened as the torque increased and the 224hp 4-cyl tractor coped impressively and maintained the set speed without fuss. The id low speed concept works well, and after each headland turn the engine speed rose as the working load increased, and then dropped back as the Fendt id management system tuned the engine and transmission for maximum efficiency.

At 9.7kph and with the tines pushed deep in the ground, the engine speed varied between 1,390–1,720rpm, and fuel consumption was approximately 37 litres/hour.

Headland turns were completed automatically, including steering to maximise working efficiency. An acoustic warning sounds as the headland boundary is approached and the intended turning direction is displayed on the screen. If this is acceptable, then the operator has nothing to do apart from monitor progress as the implement lifts and lowers automatically and pre-set speeds for working and turning are activated at the relevant times.

Even though the tractor was a pre-production, hand-built example, there were no vibrations or rattles and everything worked well. Monitoring noise levels during operation, the average was 68db, but with the climate control system turned off this reduced to 65–66db – very low for a hard-working 4-cyl tractor.

Testing the tractor at higher speeds up to 40kph on a concrete farm track, the front axle, cab and seat suspension performed well, and the tractor felt stable and secure.

Pictured with the new 620 Vario are (l-r) Ed Dennett, Oskar Dreyer and Simon Landgraf.

What’s the verdict?

The new Fendt 600 Vario enters full production in July 2024, although orders will be taken following the Agritechnica launch.

Premium Fendt features such as VarioDrive are a big attraction, maximising performance, efficiency and productivity while also saving tyre wear and fuel. In terms of comfort, the cab is hard to beat and the FendtONE operating concept makes it a rewarding tractor to drive. Skilled operators have plenty of opportunity to tweak settings to get the most from the machine while those with less experience can utilise the user-friendly technology to help them operate effectively.

Many potential buyers will regard a 4-cyl engine producing 224hp with suspicion. However, after putting it through its paces and seeing how well it coped with the heavy draft load, it is hard to see how a 6-cyl tractor of similar power could offer advantages. The 4-cyl engine is smooth, quiet and economical and perfectly matched with the latest T150 transmission.

Farmers Guide also tested the optional steering joystick available for the 600 Vario series, fitted to one of Fendt’s larger tractors. Loading soil from a heap into a trailer, it saved time and effort compared to using the steering wheel and it is likely to prove particularly popular with those buying the tractors primarily for loader work.

The post Machinery Review: Brand new mid-sized Fendt 600 Vario tractors appeared first on Farmers Guide.

Logan Doyle-Tyson is looking forward to competing again for Young Shepherd in 2023.

The English Winter Fair has over a dozen classes specially for school-age competitors, as well as playing host to Young Farmers’ stock and carcase judging championships, and the final of the Young Shepherd of the Year.

Richard Williams, chief executive of the Staffordshire and Birmingham Agricultural Society (SBAS), says investing in competitions for young people keeps both traditional and commercial livestock skills alive.

“We saw a particularly large entry in the Young Farmers’ stock judging events last year, which was very rewarding,” he says.

“There are two competitions: A one-day event specially for the English Winter Fair, organised by Staffordshire Young Farmers on behalf of our committee; and a two-day competition organised by the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs (NFYFC). Together, they attracted well over 200 entrants throughout England and Wales last year, and we hope there will be even more in 2023.”

Over 200 Young Farmers took part in the stock and carcase judging events at last year’s English Winter Fair; it’s hoped even more will take part this year.

While competitors no longer judge the same animals live then dead, as they did when the Young Farmers’ championship was held at Smithfield, the English Winter Fair still offers the chance to evaluate both live animals and carcases because of its purpose-built refrigerated hall.

“Winners will be presented with the original Smithfield trophies during the NFYFC’s presentation of awards for its competition,” says Mr Williams.

Young Shepherd of the Year competition

Another competition which holds its grand final at the English Winter Fair is the Young Shepherd of the Year, organised by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust. Last year’s junior champion Logan Doyle-Tyson, aged 12, started his showing career by helping his sister show Hebridean sheep.

“I started learning at home, then doing young handler competitions at shows,” says Logan, whose family farm in Cumbria. “Our family are members of the Rare Breeds Survival Trust, and it’s good to keep people aware of rare sheep by showing them..

“People like our sheep because they’re black and have horns, and I enjoy it when they come to our pens and ask questions because we’re helping to educate them. Lots of people think they’re goats because of their horns and how they look when they’ve just been sheared.”

Winning last year was a real surprise in Logan’s first year competing. “I couldn’t believe it, I couldn’t speak and my mum was crying – happy tears of course,” he says.

“I was really pleased to qualify again for this year’s final at my first show of the season. I’m looking forward to competing – we make a weekend of it and have lots of fun. I think everyone should try the Young Shepherd competition. Even if you don’t have sheep, get into it by asking friends and other competitors if you can help with theirs.”

Archie Holmes and Owen Good (both 15) from Thomas Alleyne’s High School in Uttoxeter were winners in the Fair’s schools livestock handling competition last year; they’re hoping to repeat their success at this year’s event.

English Winter Fair’s special schools competition

The English Winter Fair’s special schools competition, introduced in 2017 is also going from strength to strength. Students at the Thomas Alleyne School in Uttoxeter compete each year, honing their animal stockmanship and presentation skills.

Justine North, the teacher with responsibility for farm activities at the school, says many of those who take part aspire to have careers in positions like vets, farmers, zookeepers or dog groomers.

As only 10-15% of children who get involved are from a farming background, the livestock handling skills they learn are invaluable in giving them confidence around all sorts of animals, she notes.

“The school actually has its own farm with an array of sheep, goats, cows and poultry, run by farm manager Rosie Deakin-Gallimore, who is instrumental in preparing the students and animals for the English Winter Fair each year,” says Mrs North.

“More than 20 students competed last year in a range of classes. We used to enter the stock classes but it’s hard to win against people who are breeding champion animals for a living. So we focus on the schools’ class, and compete on handling and showing skills, as well as the sausage-making championship.”

Mrs North’s students Archie Holmes and Owen Good, both 15, won the sheep handling class last year. Archie says they first halter trained the sheep, then learned to clip and brush them, which they got confident enough to do at the show in front of other people.

Owen adds: “It was a great day, particularly because we won first prize. We’ll definitely be going again this year to defend our title, and we’ll even try taking part in other classes now we know what’s involved.”

Entries for the English Winter Fair are now open, with entry forms available on the Staffordshire County Showground website and in hard copy from the organisers. Advance discounted tickets for spectators are also available on the website.

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