Reflections from the Chaser Bin: A Firsthand Look at Farming’s Automation Journey
For the first time in nine years, I was back in the chaser bin this harvest season, and things have changed dramatically. What used to be a completely manual and intuitive task has now evolved and I’m part of a connected system. My tractor is able link to the header, allowing the header driver to take control of my movements to align perfectly for unloading.
The first time the tractor moved without my input was both unsettling and fascinating—like watching the future of farming unfold in real time. It got me thinking about the process of automation and the stages that are required to move farming to an automated system. I first came across this matrix when I was researching with GPS tracking collars on sheep in 2021/22.
Observation, Decision, and Action in Automation
Every task in farming can be broken into three essential components:
Observation: Gathering information about the environment or a process—something that begins with human senses but can increasingly rely on sensors and data systems.
Decision: Determining the best course of action based on the gathered information, whether it’s a human relying on experience or a machine analyzing algorithms.
Action: Executing the task, which shifts from manual human effort to machine-driven processes.
In farming, observation and action traditionally happen on the ground, where farmers monitor conditions, operate machinery, and respond in real time to the challenges of the paddock. These tasks remain rooted in the physical realities of the farm. However, as automation advances, the decision-making process is increasingly shifting off-farm.
Many of the tools driving these decisions—data analytics, machine learning algorithms, and advanced software—are developed and managed by tech companies, researchers, and innovators who operate far from the paddock. While these tools bring a level of precision and insight previously unattainable, they also introduce a gap between those designing the systems and those using them. Bridging this divide will be critical to ensuring that automated solutions are practical, adaptable, and aligned with the realities faced by farmers.
Human-Only, Machine-Assisted and Machine-Only progression in Automation
The Automation of each of these phases also has a progression until humans are comfortable with the quality of the job being performed.
Human-Only: Every aspect of the task is controlled manually. This requires skill, focus and physical effort from the operator.
Machine-Assisted: Machines begin to aid the operator by reducing physical demands or improving precision through technology like GPS, sensors, or automated controls. Humans and machines work together, with humans still making key decisions and taking responsibility for outcomes.
Machine-Only: The machine assumes full responsibility for the task, operating independently based on programmed logic, real-time data, or pre-set parameters.
Case Study: The Chaser Bin’s Evolution
Driving the chaser bin this harvest has given me a front-row seat to this transition in action.
Human-Only: Years ago, when operating the chaser bin it was a fully manual process. The driver needed to align with the header using skill and intuition, carefully controlling every movement to ensure precise unloading to minimise spilling grain.
Machine-Assisted: Now, GPS systems guide the tractor, and the header driver can take over its controls for precision alignment. I’m still in the cab, observing the process and intervening when needed, but much of the physical work has shifted to the machines.
Machine-Only: In the very near future, we’ll likely see autonomous chaser bins that operate entirely on their own. They’ll communicate with headers, navigate the paddock, and manage unloading without human involvement.
Barriers to Automation: Cost and Change
While the benefits of automation are undeniable, significant barriers remain. High costs can make these technologies inaccessible for smaller operations, with advanced equipment and software requiring substantial upfront investment. Change, too, is a hurdle—shifting from familiar manual processes to complex automated systems involves a steep learning curve, both in terms of skills and mindset. Farmers must navigate concerns about reliability, maintenance, and the potential loss of traditional farming practices. Addressing these barriers will require collaboration, targeted support, and innovations that make automation more affordable and adaptable.
Reflections from the Cab
As I spent the last few weeks in the chaser bin, I’m reminded of how far we’ve come and how much potential lies ahead. Automation isn’t about removing people from farming; it’s about redefining our roles, giving us the tools to work more efficiently and strategically.
Watching the tractor align itself and unload perfectly is a glimpse into that future. The journey to full automation will be challenging, but it promises a smarter, more sustainable approach to farming—one step, one action, and one machine at a time.