70 | Farm tracks taking a hammering Kelly Deeks The broad range of services offered by Taranaki contractor Greig Gibbons Contracting means a variety of options and solutions for local farmers as they’re faced with tight economical times. Greig Gibbons Contracting is a diverse 10-yearold business which specialises in agricultural work and earthworks for farmers and builders around Taranaki. Greig says for the past couple of years the company has been busy digging new effluent ponds as farmers keep up with new irrigation requirements, as well as track maintenance works as the consistently wet weather creates muddy ground and plays havoc with cow lameness. “The rain has been a lot heavier and more consistent lately, and the tracks are getting destroyed,” he says. “If farmers have a budget to spend, that’s probably where they are best to spend it because their tracks keep the farm moving and the cows milking.” Greig Gibbons Contracting uses different products on tracks to suit different requirements. Plain gravel provides traction and reduces muddy messes, lime fines are highly compactible and help to keep track intersetions dry, and StockRock provides a smooth and even, hard wearing surface which cements well and is easy on cows’ hooves. “It’s expensive to lay but it packs down firm with a bouncy feel. It performs well in these unprecedented rain events because of the way it cements together and absorbs and displaces water.” Grieg Gibbons Contracting is adding plant every year to maintain an up-to-date fleet and to minimise down time from break downs and repairs. Having added a new baler last season, this year’s big purchase was a new Massey Fergusson 8S tractor, a step up from the company’s MF8680. Greig has used Massey Fergusson tractors for many years citing their reliability and fuel efficiency as good fits for his operation. With fuel consumption a significant factor in contracting work, Massey Fergusson tractors provide the right balance between fuel economy and the horsepower needed for the job. RURAL SERVICES » Greig Gibbons Contracting “The rain has been a lot heavier and more consistent lately, and the tracks are getting destroyed. If farmers have a budget to spend, that’s probably where they are best to spend it because their tracks keep the farm moving and the cows milking.” The MF 8680 had great size and power for baling and mowing, as well as a spacious cab, comfortable seating, and intuitive controls. “Our new MF 8S was something we were all excited about, and the technology in it is a great thing for us going forward.” Greig Gibbons Contracting is a small team of four using modern and reliable gear to provide a friendly and punctual service. The team prides itself on its communication, and knows farmers like to deal with good-natured contractors especially when they’re busy. “Our standards are pretty high and we make sure every job is perfect when we leave.” BDO TARANAKI ARE PROUD TO SUPPORT GREIG GIBBONS CONTRACTING
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