Wimmera grain growers have an opportunity to directly contribute ideas and raise local issues at upcoming forums to help the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) invest in locally relevant research, development and extension (RD&E).

As part of GRDC’s National Grower Network (NGN), grower forums will be held at Goroke, Wallup, Rupanyup, Toolondo and Kaniva from March 27 to 30, 2023.

GRDC grower relations manager – south Courtney Ramsey said the forums are an opportunity for GRDC to gather feedback and for growers, advisers and researchers to have input into local research and extension needs and consider how GRDC investments could add further value.

“These regional forums are designed to capture local priorities and enable a genuine discussion among participants about how grower levies are being invested by GRDC,” Ms Ramsey said.

“Participants can raise their ideas in-person with GRDC staff, and they will also gain insights into current projects with GRDC investment which address issues relevant to the Wimmera.”

GRDC grower relations manager - south, Courtney Ramsey, says the upcoming forums give growers a direct opportunity to communicate local priorities for GRDC investment.

The forums will also feature a project update from Dr Sean Mason of Agronomy Solutions, who will present on soil and plant testing for profitable fertiliser use, soil nutrient variability, and optimising nitrogen and phosphorus applications across zones. He will also cover research on potassium (soil test versus plant response) and iron nutrition in pulses.

All growers, advisers and industry representatives are welcome to attend and contribute to these free-of-charge forums. Registration is essential:

• Goroke, Monday 27 Mar (5.00-9.15pm, dinner included)
  Register for Goroke |  Goroke program
• Wallup, 28 Mar (9.00am-1.00pm, morning tea/lunch included)
  Register for Wallup |  Wallup program
• Rupanyup, 28 Mar (4.00-8.15pm, dinner included)
  Register for Rupanyup |  Rupanyup program
• Toolondo, 29 Mar (9.00am- 1.00pm, morning tea/lunch included):
  Register for Toolondo |  Toolondo registration
• Kaniva, 30 Mar (9.00am-1.00pm, morning tea/lunch included)
  Register for Kaniva |  Kaniva registration