#$%^&*AU2013266993A120140109.pdf#####ABSTRACT Apparatus for shredding garden refuse is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a housing defining a chamber comprising first and second housing parts which are closed in operation but which may be opened up to provide access to the chamber for servicing. The apparatus also includes a drive shaft rotatably mounted on the housing and a rotor mounted on the shaft and positioned within the chamber. There are also means, eg in the form of an electric motor, for driving the rotor. The apparatus also includes a friction brake for engaging a brake surface associated with the shaft and rotor and biasing means in the form of a helical coil spring for biasing the friction brake into engagement with the brake surface. The brake which is on the one housing part has a brake handle and there is a latch on the other housing part for latching the brake handle in the disengaged position. The latch is disengaged when the housing pars are opened up causing the brake to slow the shaft and rotor to a stop within a few seconds. cBAR10171filed3December2013
