A Queensland-first farm machinery simulation unit will be deployed to schools and feedlots across the state as AgForce Training works to boost safety on the land.
The state-of-the-art farm machinery simulator is a creation of Tenstar Simulation, a global leader in virtual simulation technology.
The simulator seed funding was provided by Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA), with the project to run over 18 months throughout Queensland.
“It’s been a long-term dream to bring cutting-edge training technology to producers on farms,” AgForce Training’s General Manager Charlton Campbell said.
‘The simulator allows both new and experienced farm workers to build their skills without clocking up hours on the engine, burning expensive fuel and putting people, stock or equipment at risk.
“It offers coaching on pre-start checks, shutdown procedures, machinery part identification and of course, realistic, everyday tasks in a controlled environment across all commodities.
“It’s a chance to train new farm workers safely as well as offering refresher training on machines that are not used regularly.”
The unit will be transported around the state with the help of purpose-built mobile classroom trailer.
Mr Campbell said the technology offered realistic simulations for operating heavy machinery like tractors, forklifts, front-end loaders and combine harvesters.
“Thorough testing has shown this $120,000 super realistic simulator works effectively, ensuring participants are ready before stepping into real machinery.
“This sort of concept has been used successfully for years in aviation for pilot training and has many useful applications in agriculture.
“For example, the simulations include dealing with hazards like overhead power lines, uneven and wet terrain, unbalanced loads, trailer use, jackknifing, braking distance and many more.
“It’s important to note that this device is not turning ag training into a game but is a high-fidelity simulator that allows us to train scenarios that can’t be replicated safely in the paddock.”
MLA Innovation Capability & Tech Fund Program Manager Joshua Whelan said the simulator had an important role to play.
“This project demonstrates how immersive simulation technology can strengthen safety outcomes while building capability across the red meat industry workforce,” he said.
“By enabling producers and workers to develop skills in a realistic, controlled environment, this initiative helps reduce risk, improve confidence and support more efficient farm operations.
“MLA is pleased to partner with AgForce Training to explore how this approach can be scaled to benefit producers across Queensland.”
“We’re grateful for MLA’s investment in helping us determine whether this technology can benefit producers,” Mr Campbell said.
“It’s an important step towards safer, smarter and more accessible farm machinery training for Queensland producers. “
The simulator will be on site at Loganlea and also at Scots College near Warwick in August, and at BeefEx 2026 in September, with further sites to be confirmed.
AgForce Training is a leading provider of practical, industry-backed training for the agricultural sector. Through their new training innovations, AgForce Training is equipping the next generation of workers with the necessary safety skills and confidence to succeed in modern agriculture.
