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Finning prize winners visit Cat Malaga

Two representatives from Cornwall Wildlife Trust received an exclusive visit to Caterpillar's facility in Malaga, Spain.

The prize formed part of Finning UK & Ireland's celebrations marking 100 years of Caterpillar. Winners Alex Eatough, Helman Tor Reserves Officer, and Andy Collins, Mid-Cornwall Reserves Manager, were given an insight into the latest machinery developments and technologies that could support the Trust's conservation work.

Cornwall Wildlife Trust manages more than 50 nature reserves across the county, overseeing projects on land and at sea. Its work includes Cornwall's largest rewilding programme, which requires a range of heavy equipment. The Trust regularly uses around 60 excavators, rollers and dumpers to support its restoration activities. However, like many conservation charities, it often relies on ageing, borrowed or hired machinery, with funding constraints making investment in new equipment challenging.

The visit provided Alex and Andy with the opportunity to speak directly with Caterpillar specialists about potential equipment solutions for habitat restoration and infrastructure maintenance, as well as explore the manufacturer's technology experience room.

“Through the prize trip, I’ve learned about new methods and machinery that can facilitate more efficient habitat restoration and infrastructure maintenance,” Alex explained.

“The overall experience has been fantastic. From the exciting initial call to inform us of this opportunity, everyone has been incredibly kind, accommodating, and informative.”

Tim Ballard, General Manager of Digital, Technology, Marketing & Sales at Finning UK & Ireland, said: “We launched this competition to celebrate the role Cat machinery has played in shaping the nation's projects and people over the last 100 years.

“It has been a wonderful chance to support our customers by providing access to the latest expertise and experiences they might not otherwise have the chance to get.

“With tight budget constraints, fuel prices, and sustainability concerns, efficiency is crucial. I look forward to seeing how Alex and Andy will integrate what they’ve learned back into the Trust’s operations.”

The draw formed part of Finning UK & Ireland's first 'Win Big' competition, marking Caterpillar's centenary. Other winners received new Cat excavators to support their projects.