Growers across Western Australia have the opportunity to hear the latest in research and development outcomes at a series of five regional one-day GRDC Grains Research Update events.

These updates, to be held from February 27 to March 12, are a valuable source of agronomic and industry information and resources.

GRDC Western Region Panel chair Darrin Lee says the regional events are focused on delivering strategic and innovative information to growers and advisers relevant to each location, with the central aim of building the profitability of local grain growers.

"The regional Grains Research Updates allow growers to access leading research, development and extension (RD&E) information to assist them in adopting new farming practices and technologies," he says.

"With the majority of presentations based on GRDC investments, and presenters delivering information in a practical way, growers are able to see not only the value in ongoing investment but also learn of tools and strategies they can implement on-farm."

Keeping it local

Each Regional Updates event features a unique line-up of speakers designed to ensure content is regionally relevant. Some of the featured topics include:

• soil amelioration;
• deep ripping and nutrition;
• herbicide and fungicide resistance; and
• new chemistries for weed management.

Technology will also be a feature with presentations focused on:

• adoption of precision agriculture technology;
• harvest weed seed management systems;
• remote and real-time crop monitoring; and
• the latest in agricultural machinery and equipment.

Diversification in cropping systems through pulse crops, rotations, hay and livestock will be explored, as will weather forecasting and new variety performance in lupins, canola, wheat and oats.

Mr Lee says the success of the regional updates depends on local support.

"In particular, we thank the Corrigin Farm Improvement Group, the Merredin and Districts Farm Improvement Group, the Yuna Farm Improvement Group, the Fitzgerald Biosphere Group, the Lakes Grower Group and the Ravensthorpe Agricultural Initiative Network for their support in hosting these events," he says.

Where to head to

The five regional one-day GRDC Grains Research Update events are at the following WA locations:

• Kwinana West Zone, Corrigin Recreation and Events Centre - February 27
• Kwinana East Zone, Merredin Regional Community and Leisure Centre - February 28
• Geraldton Zone, Yuna Community Centre - March 6
• Albany Zone, Jerramungup Sports Centre - March 11
• Esperance Zone, Lake King Hall - March 12.

More information: about (or to register for) the Perth and regional events: GRDC website, or contact convenor the Grain Industry Association of WA (GIWA) on 08 6262 2128 or researchupdates@giwa.org.au