Applying outcomes from research to build the profitability of Central Queensland farming systems will be the focus of discussions at two upcoming forums for grain growers and advisers.

GRDC is hosting Grains Research Updates at Theodore and Rolleston on November 17 and 18 respectively.

The two Updates will feature a line-up of experts who will provide the latest information from grains research of relevance and practical use to local growers.

GRDC Grower Relations Manager – North, Richard Holzknecht, says the advice and knowledge to be extended to growers and advisers at the Updates would be of enormous value in informing decision making over the coming months.

“GRDC continuously invests in research and development on behalf of growers to create opportunities for positive impact in our farming systems,” Mr Holzknecht says.

“Outcomes from those investments which could potentially underpin increases in productivity and profitability for growers in the Theodore and Rolleston regions will be detailed at the Updates.”

Topics to be covered during the Updates include the impacts of tillage and surface cover on fallow efficiency, infiltration, evaporation, erosion and run-off. Soil scientist David Freebairn will lead the discussions on the importance of soil conservation and water capture.

Catchment water quality and its relationship with the Great Barrier Reef is the theme of a presentation by Kevin McCosker from the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Queensland, who will look at sediment loads, nutrients and chemicals in CQ waterways.

Other topics on the agenda include:

• Nitrogen (N) strategies relating to phosphorus and potassium, application timing, surface spreading and N losses.
• Wheat time of sowing and optimising flowering dates, and new long coleoptile wheats and sowing depth.
• Optical sprayers – management optimisation and field experience with their use on robotic platforms.
• Farming systems – key findings on system profit, N and water use efficiencies, crop legacy effects, crop competition (row spacings and populations), crop diversity, use of manure and N timing from seven seasons of research.
• Managing the farming system to maximise water capture and minimise soil erosion and run-off losses.

The Theodore Update will include a discussion on desiccation of mungbeans by windrowing, including timing, residue benefits, seed viability and harvest efficacy.

The Rolleston Update will feature a presentation on the effect of narrow rows and high populations on sorghum productivity, water and nutrient use and legacies in the farming system, as well as a session on deep phosphorus research in CQ.

The Updates at the Theodore RSL Hall and Rolleston Memorial Hall will be from 9am to 3pm, with catering provided.

More information: to register, erica@icanrural.com.au, 02 9482 4930.