Universal Spreader goes the extra mile

And for that challenge, he chose the Strautmann MS 1401 Universal Spreader, which is proving its worth.

His business, JK & MA Atkinson & Sons, grows rice, wheat and canola on 250 hectares of land.

They also have a hydroponic tomato farm.

The leaf prunings and vines at the end of the tomato crop provide good green waste for composting, and this is supplemented with chicken manure at spreading time.

Not all spreaders can handle different types of product, but the Universal Strautmann machines can spread a wide range of organic and mineral material from fine compost or crumbly lime to heavy manure.

This is helped by the powder coated side panels and robust plastic floor that gives excellent material flow, plus a moving floor with four high tensile 13-millimetre diameter chains with the strength to pull through a fully loaded wagon.

Mr Atkinson explained the attraction of the Strautmann MS 1401.

“The tandem axle and wide flotation tyres give a comfortable ride and stability, which is important to us when spreading in the paddocks and also on the two kilometre trip to the field,” he said.

“It can carry up to 12 cubic metres so I don’t have to reload.

“The two large 900mm spreading discs, with two horizontal shredders and a hydraulic rear metering door, deliver accurate spreading up to 25 metres, and it’s easy to adjust for different materials.”

While Mr Atkinson has only had the machine for a few months, he is already enjoying the flexibility of spreading when he wants, rather than waiting for a contractor.

“It’s a reliable spreader at a good price point, and it’s got a solid, robust feel with a fully galvanized frame,” he said.

“We will see an improvement in the organic matter in our soil as a result of the consistent spreading, which has got to be good for business!”