As we rummage through the Christmas leftovers, most of us don’t have to think too hard about our next meal. But have you ever wondered how food production can keep up with the rapidly growing world population?

An important part of the answer is: the tractor. Tractors were developed in the late 19th century, but it was not until Ford introduced the mass-produced “Fordson” tractor in 1917 that tractors became more widely accessible to farmers and graziers. Their safety, versatility and efficiency was enhanced by Harry Ferguson’s “three-point hitch” which allowed ploughs and other implements to operate more smoothly and be changed-out more quickly and safely. Obviously, these days, the tractor is central to safe and efficient agriculture.

And the relevance to QER? Well obviously modern agriculture is stubbornly dependent on liquid fuel – mainly diesel. And QER is all about helping offset our nation’s total depenence on fuel and oil imports, making sure that farmers of the future will have an affordable, reliable fuel supply.