The Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) has released the program for its northern series of GRDC Grains Research Updates to be held in Wagga Wagga, Corowa, Baradine, Dubbo, Goondiwindi and Burren Junction during February and March 2024.
According to GRDC Northern Panel Chair Arthur Gearon, the events are a ‘must-attend’ for growers and advisers across the region and are the perfect opportunity to network with industry and hear the latest results from key grains research projects.
GRDC Northern Panel chair Arthur Gearon said the northern Grains Research Update events are a must-attend for local growers and advisors. Photo: Nicole Baxter/GRDC
“These events aim to deliver the latest in research and technology through presentations tailored to each region – that is, they aren’t a one-size-fits-all event - they really focus on the pressing questions, concerns and opportunities specific to each region,” Mr Gearon says.
“One of this year’s key themes is technology – machine technology is leading to rapid changes in how we farm so it’s important to be aware of not only what is out now, but also what is on the horizon and how it might contribute to grower profitability.
“The two-day updates in Wagga Wagga, Dubbo and Goondiwindi have a concurrent session dedicated to new technology and start-ups with topics such as automated crop? disease detection, augmented reality for on-farm maintenance and artificial intelligence.
“The other key theme of the updates this year is sustainability. Sustainability is fundamental to successful farming enterprises so we’re bringing the latest developments directly to growers and advisers.”
Some of the sustainability topics that will be discussed include the ‘Science underpinning farm gate greenhouse gas footprints’ (Warwick Badgery, NSW Department of Primary Industries), ‘Greenhouse gas calculators for grain farming businesses’ (Ben White, Kondinin Group), and the ‘Greenhouse gas perspective on securing nitrogen for food production’ (Rob Norton, Norton Agronomic).
Whilst it is vital for growers and advisers to gain an understanding of new technology and prepare for change in the sustainability space, GRDC’s Update programs also deliver the latest research outcomes on seasonal crop management.
According to GRDC Senior Regional Manager Gillian Meppem, these topics include farming systems, weeds, diseases and pests.
According to GRDC senior regional manager Gillian Meppem, the Grains Research Update events provide growers and advisors with an opportunity to network and connect with industry peers, allowing the discussion of the practical application of the research presented. Photo: GRDC
“The northern Grains Research Updates cover an extensive range of topics to ensure that growers and advisers have the latest information going into the 2024 winter crop, the one percent productivity lifts or savings that ultimately make a big difference to the bottom line,” Ms Meppem says.
“There’s an engaging balance of bigger picture topics and ready-to-use agronomy learnings at this year’s Updates, with the topics specifically chosen for their potential to impact grower profitability.
“You can watch the two-day Update events online, but what’s especially beneficial about attending in person are the networking opportunities which offer a chance to discuss the practical application of the research presented.”
Dates and locations of two-day Updates:
- Wagga Wagga (CSU) – Wednesday 14 & Thursday 15 February 2024
- Dubbo (RSL) – Thursday 29 February & Friday 1 March 2024
- Goondiwindi (Community Centre) – Tuesday 5 March & Wednesday 6 March 2024
Dates and locations of one-day Updates:
- Corowa (RSL) – Friday 16 February 2024
- Baradine (Hall) – Wednesday 28 February 2024
- Burren Junction (School of Arts Hall) – Thursday 7 March 2024
The GRDC Research Updates are full day events (9am to 3pm). Morning tea, lunch and update proceedings will be provided, with opportunity for networking throughout the day.
The northern Grains Research Updates cover an extensive range of topics to ensure that growers and advisers have the latest research outcomes and information. Photo: GRDC
To register for an event, or to learn more about the agenda, view a complete list of upcoming Research Updates on GRDC’s events page, or contact Erica McKay, 02 9482 4930, erica@icanrural.com.au.