Howard's Rotary Hoe

Arthur Clifford Howard (1893-1971) developed the frst commercially-viable machines for soil cultivation using powered rotors. His first model was built on the family farm at Gilgandra in 1912. Marketing his first Rotavator began in 1922, from factories in New South Wales and later overseas.

The principle of rotary cultivation has been adopted on farms worldwide from the smallest holdings to home gardens and the largest enterprises.

Cliff Howard also developed tractors, and other farm equipment over a long and productive career. His name endures on a range of machines sold worldwide.

Howards rotary hoe displayed at Gilgandra

The Engineers Australia plaque at Gilgandra

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Engineering Heritage Recognition Program

Marker Type	Engineering Heritage National Marker (EHNM)
Award Date	2023
Engineering Significance	Arthur Clifford Howard was first to achieve commercial success with the idea of using a powered rotor to cultivate soil.
Nomination Document	Available here.
Ceremony Booklet Ceremony Report	Not available.
Plaque/Interpretation Panel	Not available.