An expert in soils, crop nutrition and fertilisers - described as both practical and a big picture thinker - is the winner of the 2020 western region GRDC Seed of Light award.

Independent consultant Wayne Pluske received the prestigious award at this week's premier Western Australian annual grains research forum - the GRDC Grains Research Updates - in Perth.

The Seed of Light award is presented annually to a person making a major contribution to communicating the outcomes of grains research and development in WA.

Accolades deserved

When presenting the award, GRDC Western Region Panel chair Darrin Lee said Mr Pluske was well-respected and had the ability to convert complex and technical information into concepts that were easily understood by growers.

"Wayne always keeps grower profitability top-of-mind and he provides evidence-based, practical advice - minimising risks and hassles," Mr Lee said.

"His communication style is to-the-point, measured and concise.

"Wayne has an unassuming and approachable nature, but also has the ability to think about the 'big picture' and to find and implement innovative solutions to difficult problems.

"He is well connected, mentors younger people in the industry and is willing to share the expertise he has gained from more than 25 years of working in the areas of soils, nutrition and fertilisers."

Western Australian adviser Wayne Pluske, centre - an expert in soils, crop nutrition and fertilisers - was presented with the 2020 western region GRDC Seed of Light award by GRDC managing director John Woods, left, and GRDC Western Region Panel chair Darrin Lee. Photo: GRDC

Experience benefits growers

In bestowing Mr Pluske with the award, Mr Lee said the GRDC's Western Region Panel also recognised his excellent facilitation skills.

He said in group situations, Mr Pluske encourages others to share their knowledge, and effectively identifies and brainstorms research questions and opportunities.

"He is highly regarded as a contributor to extension in GRDC initiatives - including the Updates, the Soils Constraints - West steering committee (as chair) and Managing Soil Constraints Forums that were held in 2019," he said.

"Wayne is also successfully leading a project that is extending to growers the results of the five-year Soil Constraints West project."

During his career, Mr Pluske has worked in public and private organisations and has been involved in the development and use of many services for the delivery of soil and plant tests and information to advisers and growers.

He is the founder and director of Equii, an independent consultancy advising growers, advisers, agribusiness and industry organisations on soils, plant nutrition, and fertiliser. He is also technical director of Laconik, which is focussed on scoping, testing and commercialising in-paddock agricultural technologies.

Mr Pluske started his working career in 1987 as a research officer with the WA Department of Agriculture, before joining Wesfarmers CSBP where he worked from 1992 to 2002 as a senior agronomist. From 2003 to 2011 he was with the Back Paddock Company, where he became managing director and was responsible for a national operation providing soil testing, farm planning, training and consultancy to the agricultural industry.

More information: Natalie Lee, GRDC Communications Manager - West, 0427 189 827, natalie.lee@grdc.com.au