AS THE hay season hits full swing, farmers and contractors are keen to make the most of the high prices.

For farmers, this means getting hay cut, baled and on trucks quickly, while for contractors it can mean extra work and income if they can work fast enough.

"Hay prices have more than doubled since October last year, to $160 per tonne this season," said JCB Construction Equipment Australia's national Fastrac product manager, David Moselen.

"Farmers and contractors will be busier than ever and they're looking for equipment that can help them get the job done as quickly, efficiently and safely as possible.

"We're already seeing high demand for the JCB range of hay handling equipment, including Fastrac tractors, Loadall telehandlers and new-generation skid steer loaders.

"Each of these models offer exceptional productivity features, outstanding fuel economy and unsurpassed safety.

Together they provide customers with a full hay handling solution."

For the baling stage, David said, JCB's Fastrac 8310 and 3230 tractors could travel at road speeds of up to 80km/h.

"These tractors are ideal for large-scale operators because they allow you to move between jobs fast and don't need to be transported between properties," he said.

"When you consider the distances some contractors cover during the hay-making season, a 20km/h variance in road speed can make a significant difference to productivity."

The Fastrac 8310 delivers 228kW and torque rise levels up to 38 per cent, allowing it to operate varied gear from mowers to large balers.

The integrated chassis and all-round suspension design create a smoother ride for the operator.

Once the hay has been baled it needs to be loaded on trucks for transport or moved for storage.

The JCB Loadall range of telehandlers is ideal for this application, with the 531-70, 541-70 and 550-80 models offering up to 108kW, with an oil flow of 140 litres a minute.

Able to take varied attachments, these models have a heavy duty boom assembly, with the 550-80 able to lift up to five tonnes.