Power and Precision: Why the R975i Self-Propelled Sprayer is a Game-Changer for Australian Growers

When it comes to modern broadacre farming, efficiency isn’t just a bonus; it’s a necessity. For Angus Siddons, a third-generation farmer operating between North Star and Cropper Creek in northern NSW, the John Deere R975i self-propelled sprayer has become an essential tool in his no-till operation. And it’s easy to see why.

This blog describes the power, precision, and efficiency of the R975i PowrSpray Trailed Sprayer, using testimonials from Royce Bell, John Deere's Production and Precision Ag Marketing Manager, and Angus Siddons, a third-generation farmer from northern NSW.

Built for Australian Conditions
The R975i isn’t just another sprayer; it’s purpose-built for the unique demands of Australian agriculture. With a three-metre track spacing tailored for controlled traffic farming and a 36-metre boom equipped with See & Spray™ Select, it’s engineered to cover more ground with greater precision.
“This particular model is being introduced to Australia to meet Australian conditions. It has three metre track spacing to suit controlled traffic and also See & Spray Select across 36 metre boom” - Royce Bell.

No-Till Farming’s Best Friend
In dryland farming, every drop of moisture counts. That’s why no-till practices are central to operations like Angus’s, where preserving soil structure and moisture is key to success. The R975i plays a pivotal role in this, spraying efficiently to reduce consumption costs while still applying sufficient moisture to preserve it.
“Spraying’s really important because in a no-till farming system, it’s the key operation… It’s the driver behind retaining moisture, keeping weeds dead, and keeping stubble retained.” - Angus Siddons

One Brand, One System
One of the standout advantages of the R975i is its seamless integration with the broader John Deere ecosystem. From tractor to GPS to sprayer, everything speaks the same language, simplifying operations and support.
“The key for us with this machine is it’s one brand front to back... Tractor, GPS, sprayer… It’s your one-stop shop for any repairs or support.” - Angus Siddons

This integration means less time troubleshooting and more time in the paddock. The intuitive interface combines advanced features, such as pulsing nozzles and See & Spray Select, into a single screen, making precision spraying easier than ever.
“It’s all here integrated into one screen, easy to operate, easy to work with and actually enables a better solution in field farming.” - Royce Bell

Capacity, Efficiency, and Cost Control
Whether you’re adding to an existing fleet or looking for a versatile standalone solution, the R975i delivers. It offers the capacity of a self-propelled sprayer with the flexibility of a trailed unit, ideal for both in-season broadacre work and summer fallow spraying.
"Trail sprayers are attractive because they give you more capacity, less compaction… Their depreciation is lower, their running costs are lower. They are just a great tool to have.” - Angus Siddons

In a world where yield potential is often capped by climate and soil, profitability hinges on cost control and operational efficiency. The R975i helps farmers do more with less, using less fuel, experiencing less downtime, and generating less waste.
“It's all about lowering costs now to increase profitability… The more efficiently you can do that with less downtime, you know, you’re just miles in front.” - Angus Siddons