Massey Ferguson sent out the call and two of its local technicians answered it, and they were selected to take part in Massey Ferguson Master Mechanic Challenge, the world’s first tractor reality show.
Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape is ably represented by Francois Beer of Beer Trekkers, who declares he can fix any high horsepower MF tractors. He says: “Growing up on a farm, and now being in a farming business, lets me understand both sides of the spectrum – from the farmer’s perspective to the importance of offering best-in-class product support. My 15 years’ experience as a mechanic and the ongoing training I receive have prepared me for this challenge.”
Established by his father, Beer Trekkers has given Francois exposure to Massey Ferguson since an early age. He decided to enter Master Mechanic because he is familiar with the brand and has been working on the tractors for a few years. “I have liked Massey Ferguson from a young age,” says Francois.
He says that he initially studied architecture, but slowly realised his passion was with Massey Ferguson tractors. Francois began working at Beer Trekkers on completing his mechanical engineering studies 15 years ago.
“Massey Ferguson has stood the test of time,” he said. “Everyone knows Massey Ferguson; every farm has an old Massey Ferguson on it.” According to Francois, Master Mechanic showcases the technology behind the brand. “It is not just about the old tractors; there is new technology and new tractors.”
Stiaan Redelinghuys from Hennie’s Trekkers in Malmesbury, Western Cape says he has worked on Massey Ferguson tractors for the past decade. This means he has a wealth of experience that will stand him in good stead in the competition. “I am a man of few words. The work I have done speaks for me. What is more, I have never lost a number 13 spanner!
Stiaan says he took a chance entering Master Mechanic, and was surprised to receive to a call informing him he is a contestant.
“They were clearly impressed by my video,” he added. Born in Tulbagh and schooled there, Stiaan moved to Robertson in 2006. On matriculating he started working straight away at Hennie’s Trekkers, where he still is today. “I am proudly Hennie’s Trekkers.”
He notes Massey Ferguson does relatively well in the field. The brand has gained traction over the last couple of years, to the point where it is a significant contributor to Hennie’s Trekkers’ turnover. The increased market share enjoyed by the brand is especially noticeable on the high horsepower side, as these tractors are competitively priced, points out Stiaan.
Get behind your local technician and watch these two guys battle it out on Master Mechanic, Season 2. Six technicians from all over South Africa battle it out in three teams of two for a grand prize of R100 000 and a trip to France. Follow social media and watch this world-first tractor reality show.
Please find below the social media links. MFMaster-Mechanic
MFMasterMechanic
Masseymastermec
MFMaster-Mechanic
@mfmastermechanic
