This week brought a new subject and a new trainer for me — AHCMOM315 Operate Chemical Application Machinery and Equipment with Tony O’Rielly.
Our theory session placed strong emphasis on the critical importance of safely handling chemicals. It really made me stop and think about how I’ve used chemicals in my own home garden — and I’m already planning some changes to ensure safer practices.
The biggest challenge of the week was getting back on a tractor for the first time in more than 40 years! As someone who doesn’t usually drive manual vehicles, getting used to the clutch and gears was a little daunting at first. But with Tony’s guidance, I was soon chugging along confidently. I’m proud to say I successfully demonstrated all the required skills!
This week’s practical focused on treating weeds with pesticide, and next week we’ll be learning how to disperse fertilisers. It just goes to show — you’re never too old to learn something new!
