Why Side-by-Side Buggies Are the Ultimate Choice for Aussie Farmers
The Shift I Didn’t See Coming
When I first started noticing farmers swapping their old quads and Utes for side-by-side buggies, I thought it was just another passing trend. But then I spent a week helping out on a mixed livestock and cropping property, and it hit me - these machines aren’t just toys; they’re the backbone of modern Aussie farm work.
By the end of the week, I’d watched a Polaris Ranger 1500 navigate boggy paddocks, tow a trailer full of feed, and help strain wire on a fenceline - all without breaking a sweat. For farmers who need efficiency, reliability, and versatility, side-by-sides are no longer optional.
Real-World Farm Work Made Easier
Out in the paddock, time is money - and fatigue can be costly. Farmers I’ve worked with rely on side-by-sides for just about everything:
- Fencing and mustering: With a winch, you can strain wire or pull stubborn posts without waiting for a ute. I remember one farmer using a Forge Series bullbar-mounted winch to straighten a fallen fence in under ten minutes - a task that would’ve taken a team hours with manual tools.
- Hauling and towing: From feed and water tanks to gates and tools, a Polaris General 1000 or Honda Pioneer 1000 makes short work of moving heavy loads across rough terrain.
- Off-road reliability: These machines handle mud, rocks, and steep inclines better than most quads or small trucks. With an underbody Forge Series bash plate, farmers can take on rocky tracks without worrying about damaging their buggy.
The versatility is what sells it. One minute you’re hauling gear across the paddock, the next you’re helping a mate pull a bogged ute. Side-by-sides cut down grunt work, save time, and keep the workday moving.
Forge Series Accessories in Action
I’ve seen more operators fitting Forge Series accessories because they’re built tough for Aussie conditions.
- Bullbars: Protect the front end and double as a mounting point for winches. Ideal for wire straining, moving posts, or clearing fallen branches quickly.
- Bash plates: Essential if you’re running off-track or over rocky paddocks - keeps the chassis safe from dents and costly repairs.
These aren’t flashy add-ons; they’re practical, day-to-day solutions. Farmers want reliability, durability, and versatility, not bells and whistles.
Trends I’m Seeing Across Aussie Farms
- A growing trend: More farmers are switching from quads or small utes to machines like the Polaris Ranger 1500 or Honda Pioneer 1000. Efficiency and safety are driving the change.
- Safety and comfort: Cabin enclosures, seat belts, and stability advantages reduce fatigue and risk - especially during long paddock inspections or over rough terrain.
- Customisation: Accessories like Forge Series bullbars and bash plates let farmers tailor the vehicle to their needs, whether it’s straining wire, towing gates, or handling tough terrain.
Even small-scale hobby farmers are investing in these setups. If you want a buggy that works hard, handles mud, and still feels nimble, a side-by-side is the way to go.
Reflection From the Field
After years around farms, I’ve learned it’s not just about the gear - it’s about what it helps you get done. A good buggy, fitted with the right accessories, becomes an extra set of hands. It cuts out the grunt work, keeps you safe, and gives you back hours in the day.
And with local Aussie brands like Forge Series, you know the gear is built tough enough to handle the paddock conditions we face every day.
Products Mentioned
- Forge Series Bull Bar – Built tough, doubles as a winch mount for fencing or recovery tasks. View Forge Series Bull Bars
- Forge Series Bash Plate – Protects your buggy’s underbody on rough terrain, rocks, and uneven paddocks. View Forge Series Bash Plate
