INTERNATIONAL FOREST MACHINERY EXHIBITION

APF 2018, by far the largest arboricultural in the UK is only 8 days away.  Taking place on the 20/21/22 September at Ragley Estate, Warwickshire, around 320 exhibitors and 23 000 visitors are expected over the three days of the show.

At least half of all the show visitors are professionals working in the arboricultural and tree care industry.  It is the place to come to check out the latest machinery and equipment in action and see if it can do what the glossy brochures claim and compare every major manufacturer’s equipment working side by side under realistic conditions.  Around £50 million of equipment and 2.5 miles of working machinery will be on show. Every woodchipper and MEWP manufacturer or retailer will be there showing their machines in action.

Husqvarna and Stihl will be demonstrating their latest models and developments in computerised and cordless technology.  Their technicians will be on hand to help and advise on any technical issues you might have.

In the Forest Worker Zone you can get free professional development coaching  (worth over £60 per hour),advice on career development and experts will advise on general chain sharpening and chainsaw maintenance.  FISA will be running daily demonstrations of the latest tree felling techniques, especially dealing with diseased Ash and Lantra will be demonstrating the latest climbing techniques and offering help with any safety and training issues.  NPTC can give advice on certification matters.  The Arboricultural Association and the Consulting Arborist Society will offer help with all professional matters.  There are many training companies exhibiting where you can get advice on a wide range of training courses.

When it comes to new kit you really will be spoiled for choice with all the big name suppliers exhibiting whether you are in the market for some new trousers, the latest climbing kit, a new rope or a new saw.  There will be many new, innovative products on show.  With all the competition in one place you can be assured of very keen prices and secure a great deal.

When you want a break from shopping how about trying your hand at poleclimbing?  Husqvarna are once again sponsoring the World 25m poleclimbing Championships with over £4000 in cash prizes and Husqvarna equipment to be won.  There are both Expert and Tree Surgeon classes depending on your level of experience.  Details and entry forms can be found on the Competitions and Events page of the website.

Stihl Timbersports returns to the APF this year with its six disciplines including the mighty Hot Saw with its chain speed of 240 Km per hour, that’s 140 miles an hour!

If you have ever fancied doing more than just cutting branches with your saw then  take some time to watch Europe’s top 25 chainsaw carvers in action in the A W Jenkinson and Tilhill Forestry European Championships

With UK tree health such a major issue at the moment there will be a series of seminars led by the Forestry Commission with the latest news, research and bio security measures on subjects including, Xyella fastidiosa, OPM and Ash dieback.

Tickets will be available on the gate at £22 but you can save a lot of money by buying online in advance.  A one day ticket is £18, a two day ticket £30 and if you buy 10 or more the price is just £16 each.  Online tickets sales close on Sunday 16th at 5pm.  There really is too much to see and do in one day so why not stay over?  There is an on-site campsite just 400m from the show at just £15 per person per night. 

Full details of exhibitors and events can be found on the website www.apfexhibition.co.uk or email: [email protected] Tel: 01428 723545