The latest free GroundsFest Academy event once again proved a huge success, this time focusing on Irrigation Maintenance in partnership with Origin Amenity Solutions (OAS).
Held at the impressive Throws Farm Research and Technology Centre in Great Dunmow, Essex – the heart of OAS’s research and development activity – attendees were treated to a day packed with hands-on learning, expert demonstrations, and practical advice. The facility, which boasts trial areas, greenhouses, and advanced turf analysis equipment, provided the perfect backdrop for a day dedicated to improving irrigation knowledge and techniques across the turf and amenity sectors.
Practical and Interactive Sessions
The CPD-accredited event guided participants through the fundamentals of irrigation systems, installation best practices, troubleshooting, and the latest innovations in irrigation technology.
Sessions were designed to be practical and interactive, allowing attendees to get hands-on experience and take away knowledge that could be directly applied at their own sites.
Peter Robin from Origin Amenity Solutions, who led several sessions, said: “My purpose today was to help people understand how to make their irrigation systems better.
“A lot of sites have old systems that aren’t performing as they should, leading to issues like dry patch and poor turf uniformity.
“With a better understanding of hydraulics, people can make small tweaks that make a big difference.”
The event attracted a wide range of attendees from across the UK — from schools and sports clubs to golf courses and local authorities — all eager to build their knowledge and share experiences.
Invaluable Event
Christian Bath, Grounds and Gardens Supervisor at Haileybury School, attended to build confidence in maintaining both new and ageing irrigation systems: “We’ve recently had a new system put in alongside an old one that’s not working so well.
“Today really helped me understand the troubleshooting side — how to identify problems at the source and resolve them without unnecessary disruption.
“These events are so valuable because they encourage networking and show that others are facing the same challenges.”
For Joshua Weir, Greenkeeper at Llantrisant & Pontyclun Golf Club, the accessibility of the
Free Education For The Industry
GroundsFest Academy stood out: “Being free opens it up to a much wider audience because not every club or individual can afford to travel or pay for events.
“I’ve got a book full of notes and once I explain how well the day went, I’m sure my boss will send me to more Academy events.”
The sentiment was echoed by Esteve Sanchez, Groundsperson at Fulham Football Club:
“Right now, at Fulham FC we have are having a massive extension of irrigation, and so it is good to enhance our irrigation knowledge.
“I think this is a brilliant initiative from GroundsFest – these Academy events help bring the industry together and build knowledge on several different topics.”
John Hall from Hertfordshire Bowls agreed: “Today was a fantastic learning curve. We’ve gained a much better understanding of the systems we use and how to eliminate problems.
“Networking with others has been educational in itself – it can even help you save money by understanding how to do things better.”
Reflecting on another successful event, Bradley Tennant, Director of Education at the GroundsFest Academy, said: “We’ve had a really good mix of people attend today, from football and golf clubs to bowls clubs and landscaping companies.
“It’s fantastic to see the diversity in the industry and the enthusiasm to keep learning. It’s been another brilliant day for the GroundsFest Academy – and we’ve got an exciting 12 months ahead, so watch this space!”
With each event continuing to attract strong numbers and positive feedback, the GroundsFest Academy is firmly establishing itself as one of the most valuable free learning resources in the grounds care and landscaping sectors.
This gives professionals and volunteers at every level the chance to expand their skills, share knowledge, and strengthen the future of the industry.
For more information, please visit www.groundsfestacademy.com
