The Gunnedah-based operator can apply four chemicals simultaneously, with two through each of the two boom lines using his new GoldAcres Crop Cruiser.

"One comes mixed from the front tank while the other three are injected directly at the boom lines using the direct chemical injection (DCI) units - and they could all be going on at different application rates," Mr Casey said.

"With each main tank and the three DCI units each having their own pump, it's actually possible to apply five products at variable rates."

However, a more typical operation involves combined spot and blanket spraying applying three chemicals in the one pass.

"For example, I would have Starane mixed in the front tank being spot sprayed through the Weed Seeker line, while injecting Atrazine and glyphosate into the other line for blanket coverage. That would take two passes with a normal sprayer," Mr Casey said.

In addition to the capacity to apply multiple chemicals at variable rates, the Crop Cruiser’s wheel spacings are adjustable - from 3m or 4m – to make it the first of its kind produced by the Australian manufacturer.

Mr Casey says farmers are increasingly recognising the benefits of DCI over tank mixing.

They believe chemicals are producing quicker results and that it may be possible to reduce application rates, although the improvement could be due to drier conditions.

"From a contractor's point of view the big advantage of DCI is cleanliness and ease of use. Loading is quick and easy and you aren't mixing every hour," he said.

The Crop Cruiser’s hydraulically operated variable wheel spacing feature has proved very handy when changing between 3m and 4m spacing.

Meanwhile, coupled with a soft-riding suspension, stability of the 36m boom is also aided by a new, improved UltraGlide levelling system that uses centre rack control.

Other basic specifications include 168kW (225hp) Cummins diesel engine, overall weight of 9500kg and 2WD as standard.

The new Crop Cruiser is one of five sprayers operated by Leo and his brother, Mick, who have built up their combination contracting and rural supplies business over 15 years since leaving the family farm.