Easier to identify their local Spreadmark operator

MEDIA RELEASE

20 January 2009

Farmers will find it easier in future to identify their local Spreadmark operator according to the Fertiliser Quality Council (FQC).

Spreadmark accredited operators are trained, their vehicles checked and procedures audited to ensure the fertiliser is spread exactly where the farmer wants it.

As of January 2009 the fertiliser bin on the truck will have a unique number and there will be a substantial sign on the truck. In addition there will be a single test computer program to ensure spreading standards are the same throughout the country.

FQC executive director, Kevin Geddes, said the initiatives were good news for farmers.

“Farmers not using Spreadmark accredited spreaders risk both wasting money and losing any advantage the fertiliser may provide,” he said. “Now with the easy identification of a Spreadmark operator there is no excuse to use fly by nighters.

“Spreadmark operators are well trained, their trucks have had their spreading patterns checked to ensure they spread evenly and their procedures are audited to be able to guarantee quality control.

“That is a major investment by the spreading operator and a huge asset for the farmer.

“The days of spreading unevenly, over the neighbours paddocks and in waterways, are over - courtesy of the Spreadmark scheme - and now farmers will be able to better identify their Spreadmark operator,” Kevin Geddes said.

ENDS

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