Mid West header tour

Mid West farmers got a chance to try out the latest in harvest technology this month, as McIntosh and Son held demonstration days around the region.

Sales staff took the New Holland’s 2010 model harvester, the CR9080, to farms from Binnu to Eneabba.

Geraldton McIntosh and Son sales representative Jamie Bean said the demonstration days were a great way for farmers to get a feel for the latest equipment.

“We are out there showing our customers what we’ve got,” he said.

The CR9080 features a 45-foot front and twin rotor technology, enabling farmers to get the crop off faster than previous models.

It also includes auto-steer technology, with a bigger software memory capacity than the CR9070.

The machine was used at Robert and Ian Kitto’s farm last week, where it took off some of their wheat crop.

Robert Kitto welcomed the opportunity to test the header in his paddocks.

“It’s good to be able to see it work in our conditions,” he said.

Mr Bean said farmers could expect improved features on next year’s machines.

“Next year’s model will be available with cruise control, so the header will drive itself according to the conditions,” he said.

While sales of new machines were down this year, Mr Bean said revenue from second-hand rigs had made up for it.

“Sales have been really good this year — we’ve got no second-hand machines left in the sheds,” he said.