In this festive episode of 'Inside Agri-Turf', I recap highlights from recent episodes.This is episode 135, and I thank all those who tune in and listen to a stellar line-up of guests in increasing numbers, and to all guests over the past five years, thank you for your contributions, wisdom and experiences.The podcast will return towards the end of January - after we have completed a house move.Below are the time-links to all the extracts in this episode - all the full versions can be found on the Inside Agri-Turf website00:00 Welcome to the Festive Episode02:12 Keith Christian04:14 Robin Lennie Rewind06:10 Geoff Webb07:30 Dr Mark Moore10:28 Mark Earles16:48 Anna Jones Rewind19:47 Stephen Howarth22.15 Jane Craigie24:10 Martin HamerInside Agri-Turf is devised, recorded, edited and published by Chris Biddle
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SELLER AND BUYER featuring Martin Hamer, tractor salesman - and farmer
"I don't want to upset farmers who buy my tractors - or butchers who buy my beef cattle"A view from both sides of fence on the current farmers stand-off with the Government over inheritance tax from Martin Hamer, National Sales Manager for AGCO's Fendt tractor brand - and a farmer himself and active member of the National Farmers Union.Martin shares his concerns about keeping the public onside during any demonstrations or disruptive actions. He discusses the possible involvement of Jeremy Clarkson - and how the breaking up family farms would be harmful to the variety of agriculture in this country and the value of a well-tended countryside.LINKS. Fendt tractorsNational Farmers UnionAgricultural Engineers AssociationInside Agri-Turf is devised, produced , edited and published by Chris Biddle
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SPENDING AND SUPPORTING (Part One) with Stephen Howarth and Jane Craigie
Chris discusses the ongoing standoff between the farming community and the UK government over inheritance tax and its potential impact on British food production.Guests Stephen Howarth, an agricultural economist, and Jane Craigie, a leading agri-food marketeer, share insights on current market trends, the effect on tractor and machinery registrations, and the broader ramifications for the agricultural supply sector. The episode also explores the emotional and financial strain on family farms and the role of supporting industries in mitigating these challenges.02:12 Introducing the Guests03:13 Stephen Howarth16:20 Jane Craigie38:44 Conclusion and Next Episode PreviewLINKSAgricultural Engineers AssociationJane Craigie MarketingPodcast websiteInside Agri-Turf is devised, produced, recorded and edited by Chris Biddle
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FARMERS AND THE MAINSTREAM MEDIA with Anna Jones (Rewind)
In this rewind of an episode published in January 2023, Chris talks with Anna Jones, a journalist and founder of Just Farmers. Anna discusses her background, growing up on a family farm on the Welsh border and her career in journalism, including working on the BBC's Countryfile. The conversation explores her motivations behind founding Just Farmers, an organization dedicated to providing media training to farmers, and her book 'Divide,' which addresses the disconnect between urban and rural communities. Anna sheds light on the challenges and successes of bridging these communities, the impact of public perceptions on farming, and the importance of honest, human storytelling in the media. The interview also touches on contemporary issues facing farmers, including food prices, self-sufficiency, and the influence of public figures like Jeremy Clarkson and George Monbiot on the industry's image.LINKSJUST FARMERS websiteCLICK for Divide on AmazonInside Agri-Turf is devised, produced, edited and published by Chris Biddle
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PUNCHING ABOVE OUR WEIGHT with David Kirschner (Part Two)
Chris Biddle continues his conversation with David Kirschner, who discusses the challenges of promoting this niche yet crucial industry and the steps taken to secure better funding for apprentices. He details a critical meeting at Pershore College in 2018 where he outlined the industry's needs, reflecting on the progress made despite initial funding hurdles. Kirschner also highlights the role of social media and technology in advancing the industry's visibility and career opportunities. The conversation is a deep dive into the meticulous effort required to secure necessary resources and recognition for a sector often overshadowed by more well-known industries.A Perfect Storm: David refers to the supporting document he wrote for the formal application for increased funding for Apprentices in Land-Based Engineering. READ IN FULLPost a Review: You can post a review of this episode on our website CLICK HEREPhoto: David receiving the 2017 Service Dealer Outstanding Contribution award presented by Trish BiddleLINKSLandbased Engineering Training and Education Committee (LE-TEC)Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA)British Agricultural and Garden Machinery Association (BAGMA)Institution of Agricultural Engineers (IAgrE)We are Landbased EngineeringInstitute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE)
Inside Agri-Turf speaks to those at the sharp-end of the farm and grass machinery industry which ranges from powerful 500hp farm tractors to lawnmowers for the home, via equipment used in the upkeep of golf courses, cricket and football grounds, parks and open spaces, forests and the care of the countryside.
As new technology and robotics come increasingly on-stream, we will talk to manufacturers, dealers, industry representatives and end-users in order to report on this fast-moving, innovative and essential sector that often flies under the radar of public recognition.
South Africa