Diesel Dirt and Turf making a comeback in 2021

After a tumultuous year of postponement and ultimately cancellation, The National Diesel Dirt and Turf Show is determined to push ahead in 2021 with a bigger and better event with more exhibitors, a new venue and a gamut of new product launches in store.

The 2021 event will be held at the Sydney Dragway in Eastern Creek, NSW, from April 9 to 11. Like past years, the event is completely free to attend, but

Organisers say visitors can expect to see all the latest products and technology relevant to the construction sector on show, including landscape materials and equipment; site preparation equipment; earthmoving equipment and attachments; GPS tracking and more.

Event gold sponsor, Komatsu, will be showcasing its new backhoe loader - the WB97R-8. This new release offers two-wheel steering, a powershift transmission, a high level of standard specifications and optimum operator visibility, Komatsu said.

“With a long tradition and well-established experience on the worldwide market, Komatsu has renewed its image with the Dash 8 series, and introduced a new model in an always competitive BHL scenario” said Komatsu Australia National Sales Manager for Utility, Carl Grundy.

“The operators’ needs are at the centre of attention with this new WB97R-8, with higher standards the basis of its development.”

Norm Engineering will be showcasing its Silage Grab that has been designed as a two in one attachment for agricultural, forestry, land, and waste management. The grab/stick rake combination allows users to clean up properties, clear fire breaks and manage feedlots, waste and recycling.

Once fully opened, the silage grab can be used as a stick rake or dozer to clear and move silage, animal feed, logs, debris, rubble, and rocks. The strong serrated edges on the tynes allow the grapple arm to firmly grab and carry various materials and hay bales, Norm Engineering said.

In addition to machinery manufacturers and dealers, construction related services such as recruitment companies, training institutions and insurance companies will also be exhibiting at the show. One of them is specialist recruiter, Just Automotive Recruitment.

Commenting on the status of industry employment, Jason Sultana said 2020 was a roller coaster year for employment in the industry, not unlike most other sectors.

“We all saw our fair share of upheaval and change during 2020. The employment market in the automotive, plant and heavy machinery sector was not immune to the fallout from COVID-19.

“There was a definite dip in recruiting activity during the March to June 2020 period, though from June onwards, vacancies rose again and our phones were running hot.”

Sultana added the competition for quality staff was extremely high, with companies going above and beyond to hang on to their employees.

“We found many employees were counter offered and elected to stay put during the uncertainty of lockdowns, hotspots and the changes to the JobKeeper program,” he said.

“We have also seen renewed interest from numerous customers regarding looking to employ overseas candidates due to the continued lack of local supply of qualified blue-collar employees.

“2021 has certainly started on a more positive note, candidates seem far less nervous and more willing to consider new opportunities, opening up the market even further as we move into the rebuilding stage post-COVID.”

Location: Sydney Dragway, Eastern Creek, NSW

Dates: April 9 to 11, 2021

Admission: Free

Opening times: 9.30am to 5pm everyday

More info: dieseldirtandturf.com.au