A boom for a load handling machine, the boom has a mounting by which the
boom is mounted on a body of the machine, and at least first and second
telescoped sections. In use, the boom carries a load handling implement
at or towards its outermost end. The first boom section is telescoped
within the second section and is extendible and retractable relative to
the second boom section by an actuator. At least the first boom section
includes walls made at least predominantly of a composite material. A
bearing member is located where adjacent walls meet to extend along a
substantial length of the first boom section to provide bearing surfaces
during sliding of the first boom section relative to the second boom
section. Bearings also may be provided on the interior of the second boom
section to further protect the first boom section.