One Year On: The Multifarmer Gets a Thumbs Up!

One Year On: Why the Guinans Give Merlo’s Multifarmer the Thumbs Up

Nearly twelve months have passed since the Guinan family of Co. Offaly won the use of a Merlo Multifarmer 34.7 a unique hybrid that combines the strength of a tractor with the versatility of a telehandler. After securing the use of the machine for a year, through a competition run by Agriland and Merlo Ireland, the family has now put it through a full farming year. And one thing is clear: the Multifarmer has more than earned its keep.

A Busy Farm That Demands Versatility
Michael, Concepta and their son Kevin run a busy dairy and mixed farm including:

• 120 Montbeliarde cows

• 200 ewes

• 300 acres

• Plus a contracting business

From loading baled silage to keeping the diet feeder topped up, spreading slurry, and powering attachments, the Multifarmer 34.7 has slotted neatly into the daily routine.

Replacing Two Machines With One
The Multifarmer effectively replaces a tractor and a telehandler and when you look at the engineering behind it, it’s no surprise.

Power and Performance
The MF34.7 is powered by 136 hp Deutz engine giving it the torque and responsiveness needed. The mechanical PTO (540/1000rpm) and Cat II 3-point linkage is rated to 3,000kg and it is homologated to run at 40km/hr on the road. With a maximum lift height of 6.8m and lift capacity of 3.4 tonnes it is more than comfortable to handle and stack silage in tight areas. Equipped with flow sharing and load sensing hydraulics smooth, predictable movement is ensured when multiple functions are used at the same time.

The go‑to machine
With excellent visibility, tight manoeuvrability and a robust build, the Multifarmer quickly became the go‑to machine in every corner of the yard. Kevin points out that "feeding livestock is far easier thanks to the Multifarmer’s visibility and agility which is especially useful on frosty mornings and crowded winter yards."

Tasks now handled by the Multifarmer include:

• Loading and handling bales

• Bedding and feeding livestock

• Yard scraping

• Transport using the pickup hitch

• Powering implements via the PTO,

Operator‑Friendly From Day One
Kevin, who carries out much of the day‑to‑day machinery operation, highlighted how intuitive the controls feel. "The joystick and smooth hydraulics make lifting heavy loads smooth and efficient".

A Real “Game Day” Performer in Winter
Winter is no easy season for any farm, relentless weather can turn even simple tasks into challenges, but the Multifarmer’s proved itself time and again. Tight areas that once required slow manoeuvring are now tackled with ease. Powerful hydraulics and excellent traction mean feeding, bedding, and yard cleaning can be done quickly even in challenging conditions.

After almost a year of solid use, the family’s verdict is simple:

“It gets the thumbs up.”

From efficiency improvements to labour savings, the Multifarmer 34.7 has not only slotted into their system - it has elevated it!