Grain growers across Upper Eyre Peninsula are encouraged to down tools one morning this month and tune in to a forum designed to update them on the latest outcomes from grains research and development relevant to their farming systems.

The Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) is hosting a Grains Research Update for growers in the Kimba district and surrounding areas via an online platform on Wednesday, July 29.

This Update will be beamed on to screens across the district, ensuring local growers remain informed about research advances and are provided with expert advice to guide them through the remainder of the current cropping season and beyond.

GRDC Grower Relations Manager – South, Tom Blake, says the Kimba Update will enable growers to tap into GRDC research relevant to their farming systems.

“The Update will have a focus on the effectiveness of stripper front systems, the advantages and challenges of implementing a ‘strip and disc’ system, market requirements and trade issues relating to chemical residues, as well as the implications of deep ripping sands,” Mr Blake says.

“Growers and advisers only need to set aside a small portion of their morning to tune in to a dynamic program from 9.30 to 11am.

“While the online Update format is a forced departure from the in-person regional event the GRDC was originally planning, we are excited by the increased accessibility for growers with this format and committed to ensuring that growers don’t miss out on the latest research findings, advice and recommendations to inform their tactical decision making for improved profitability.”

Participants will hear from and interact with a number of experts on a range of topics hand-picked for their relevance to local growers.

Live question and answer sessions will feature:

• John Broster, Charles Sturt University. Effectiveness of stripper front systems to conserve moisture and reduce soil temperatures – is there a yield advantage in the following crop?
• Richard Konzag, Konzag Grains. Implementation of the ‘strip and disc’ system – what are the advantages and challenges? Richard will answer questions relating to weed control, pests, crop rotations, grain harvest and more from more than five years’ experience of running a ‘strip and disc’ system.
• Gerard McMullen, National Working Party on Grain Protection. Understanding the trade issues of chemical residues/maximum residue limits – what are the market requirements?
• Therese McBeath, CSIRO. Perils of deep ripping on sandy soils – what can be learnt from hindsight? Discussion to include crop establishment, seeding depth, seedbed management and erosion.

Free online registration is via GRDC Grains Research Update, online - Kimba. For more information, phone ORM on 03 5441 6176 or email admin@orm.com.au.

Contact details

For interviews

Tom Blake, GRDC
0418 863 186
tom.blake@grdc.com.au

Contact

GRDC Adelaide office Communications Manager – South
(08) 8198 8400
media@grdc.com.au