June 7, 2004

Changing to Challenger!

Steve Brodie of Marian, with the new investment for his slashing contracting business, a Challenger MT465 tractor.

Steve Brodie was so impressed when he saw the design and low set body of the new Challenger tractor series – he bought one.

Mr Brodie operates a state-wide contract slashing business with 98 percent of his work through Sunwater.
He and wife Barbara run seven tractors and employ six men slashing irrigation channels throughout the state, including at Kinchent Dam.

It was while he was in Emerald that Mr Brodie first spotted the Challenger tractor in the Hastings Deering yard.
“It looked like it was sitting low to the ground and well balanced and that suits the work we do,” Mr Brodie said.

“With irrigation channelling you’re up and down banks and gullies and nooks and crannies.”

On returning to Mackay Mr Brodie contacted Hastings Deering who organised a demonstration of the MT465 Challenger.

“I was impressed, particularly with the forward reverse shuttle operation – you just flick a lever, no gears, and you go from forward to reverse – its very simple and quick,” he said.

“I’m the boss and I got to drive it the first day but now everyone wants to have a go.”

Hastings Deering sales representative Bob Holhzeimer sold the Challenger tractor, the first to be sold in Mackay, to Mr Brodie.

“The Brodies are contractors and operate a lot of equipment, and they came to us looking for machinery that would be suitable for their specific line of work. He (Steve) signed up subject to a successful application of his needs – he watched how it operates and he is happy with it,” Mr Holhzeimer said.

Story courtesy Sonia Ball, Bush Telegraph, The Daily Mercury, Mackay.

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