Alf Pappalardo’s “Gold Nugget”
Located in the Burdekin region of sunny North Queensland, Marathon Mangoes is a large family run orchard supplying major retailers across Australia and exporting to international markets. What began in the 1990s as a small family planting has grown into a substantial operation of more than 90,000 mango trees across 1,000 hectares of sugar cane and mango production.
The orchard produces popular varieties including R2E2, known for its size and blush, and Kensington Pride, one of the original Bowen mangoes celebrated for its flavour.
With a business of this scale, timing and efficiency after harvest are critical.
The Challenge After Harvest
Post harvest hedging plays a vital role in promoting strong new growth and maintaining orchard productivity. Traditionally, Marathon Mangoes relied on contractors to complete their hedging program. However, rising costs and contractor availability began to create pressure.
As Alf Pappalardo explains,
“So after harvest is the critical time that we want to get in there and hedge as soon as we can to promote that new flush.”
When contractor delays combined with wet weather during harvest, the team needed a more reliable solution that gave them control over timing and costs.
Discovering DTE Equipment
After researching tree pruners and hedgers online, Alf connected with DTE Equipment and discussed the specific requirements of their orchard. Based on their needs, the recommendation was the Greentec QuadSaw LRS 2402, mounted to their existing front end loader.
“It has absolutely exceeded all our expectations.”
About the QuadSaw LRS 2402
The QuadSaw LRS 2402 is a heavy duty hydraulic pruning and hedging attachment designed for commercial orchards and agricultural applications.
Key Specifications and Features:
- 2.4 metre working width for efficient coverage
- Four carbide tipped circular blades
- Capable of cutting branches up to 21 cm thick
- High blade tip speed for a smooth, clean finish
- Hydraulic drive system
- Compatible with loaders, tractors, telehandlers and excavators using suitable carrier frames
- Breakaway protection system to reduce risk of damage
- Designed for strength, durability and low maintenance
The high blade speed delivers a very clean cut, which supports healthy regrowth and professional orchard presentation. The integrated protection systems help prevent damage if obstacles are encountered, reducing downtime and repair costs.
Real World Performance on Farm
With the QuadSaw mounted and ready, Marathon Mangoes was able to hedge on their own schedule. The machine delivered the performance promised and quickly demonstrated its value.
Alf reflects on the return on investment:
“I think we’ve paid for this saw in this one season of hedging.”
The team now has the flexibility to move straight into hedging after harvest, rather than waiting on contractor availability. The attachment is quick to mount, efficient to operate and suited to the demands of large scale orchard work.
Long Term Value for Orchard Businesses
For commercial growers, equipment investment decisions must make financial sense over the long term. By bringing hedging in house, Marathon Mangoes expects significant savings over the coming years.
“The cost savings that we’re going to have with this particular machine over the next 5 and 10 years is going to be quite a sum of money.”
The reliability, cutting performance and lower operating costs have made the QuadSaw an essential part of their orchard management strategy.
A No Brainer for Orchard Growers
The impact on the business has been significant enough that Alf strongly encourages other growers to consider the switch.
“I’d recommend the quad saw to any guys with orchards. It’ll cut anything. I liken it to finding a gold nugget when you’re out fossicking for gold. I’m like how come I haven’t done this 20 years ago? You know, it’s just, it’s just the no brainer for us and our business.”
For orchard operators looking to reduce contractor reliance, improve timing and lower long term costs, the QuadSaw LRS 2402 offers:
- Professional quality pruning results
- Greater operational control
- Reduced contractor expenditure
- Efficient use of existing machinery
- Strong, durable construction built for Australian conditions
