GroundsFest 2024 is set to be an unmissable event for anyone looking to enhance their knowledge and skills in the land-based industries. With a comprehensive education programme spread across four seminar theatres, including practical sessions, there’s something for everyone. The seminars are free to attend, and visitors can earn up to 12 CPD points by attending the sessions.
Seminar Theatre 1, sponsored by Lantra, kicks off on 10th September with a range of sessions designed to tackle the latest challenges and innovations in the amenity sector. Highlights include:
- OCR Regulations – All You Need to Know by The Amenity Forum.
- A Year in Edgbaston – Gary Barwell from Warwickshire County Cricket Club.
- Challenges and Opportunities in the Amenity Sector, featuring experts like Professor John Moverley (Lantra), Jim Croxton (BIGGA) and Alisdair Mason (LanGuard).
- How Hybrid Grass is Powering More Play in Grassroots and Professional Sports by SIS Grass.
- Integrated Turf Management for Grassroots by Mark De Ath from Origin Amenity Solutions.
On 11th September, Seminar Theatre 1 continues with sessions like Reducing Glyphosate in Amenity Settings and The Benefits of Volunteering to Progress Your Career.
Seminar Theatre 2, sponsored by Dennis and SISIS, will feature equally engaging content on 10th September, such as:
- Sustainable Seed Solutions for Landscaping and Sports Turf by Stuart Yarwood from DLF.
- The Future of Amenity Weed Management by Sean Faulkner from Kersten UK Ltd.
- Boost Your Turf: How Silicon Supercharges Grass Growth by Kate Williams from Orion Future Technology.
On 11th September, don’t miss Water Management for Grassroots Football by Kelly Clack, An Introduction into Playground Standards and Inspections by Jon Dalton from The Play Inspection Company, and Understanding Gravity-Fed Chippers: How To Ensure Your Customer Gets The Right Solution by Andy Wain from HANSA.
Explore The Landscape Zone
The Landscape Zone will host a series of seminars across two days, addressing key issues and trends in landscaping and garden design. On 10th September, look forward to:
- Birmingham: The City of 1000 Green Spaces by Ryan Suddall from Fira Landscape.
- Building a Successful Landscaping Business, featuring insights from Herman Pobrati and Ben Parkinson.
- Prioritising Pollinators—a vital discussion on supporting declining pollinator populations.
On 11th September, seminars like Enhancing Biodiversity: The Role of Landscapers and Garden Designers in Shaping Sustainable Ecosystems by Noel Brock, and How to Incorporate Sustainable Water Management into Everyday Gardens will provide practical tips for creating eco-friendly outdoor spaces.
Practical Training Sessions by Grounds Training
GroundsFest 2024 also features practical training sessions designed to give hands-on experience in key areas:
Tuesday, 10th September 2024
- Training 101 for Managers: An informative session for grounds managers covering workplace training, current legislation, and planning training for your organization.
- Calibration Station: Knapsack Sprayers: A practical session demonstrating the calibration process and maintenance of knapsack sprayers, with delegates encouraged to participate.
- Launch of Lantra Robotic GPS Line Marking Course: Learn more about the new Robotic GPS Line Marking Course.
Wednesday, 11th September 2024
- Health and Safety Workshop: A talk to raise awareness of Health and Safety legislation within the industry.
- Introduction to Pedestrian Mowers Cylinder: Introduction to the Lantra competency course, covering legislation, risk assessments, and equipment familiarisation.
- Introduction to Handheld Machinery: Overview of the Lantra competency courses, including relevant legislation, risk assessments, and equipment handling.
These sessions, along with many others, offer an invaluable opportunity to learn from experts, earn CPD points, and stay at the forefront of industry trends. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the field, GroundsFest 2024’s education programme has something to offer everyone.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of the industry’s must-attend event. Register now for free at www.groundsfest.com
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