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59 results found
  • $42m diagnostics initiative to bolster grains biosecurity
    Biosecurity, 10 Jun 2024
    $42m diagnostics initiative to bolster grains biosecurity

    A new five-year National Grains Diagnostic and Surveillance Initiative will use state-of-the-art technology and processes to improve Australia’s ability to rapidly detect and accurately diagnose exotic pests and plant diseases. The $42 million national biosecurity initiative is set to transform the effectiveness and responsiveness of Australia’s grains biosecurity system.

  • PHA releases FMD quick guide for mixed producers
    Biosecurity, 13 May 2024
    PHA releases FMD quick guide for mixed producers

    PHA has developed a FMD quick guide to help plant industries and mixed-farming operations prepare for animal and plant pest and disease outbreaks and identify business opportunities that could arise. Although Australia is currently free from foot and mouth disease (FMD), it is considered one of the country’s greatest biosecurity risks and an incursion would have significant consequences for animal health and trade, along with potential impacts for the grains industry.

  • Updated resource for growers to enhance – not hinder – beneficial insects
    Biosecurity, 03 May 2024
    Updated resource for growers to enhance – not hinder – beneficial insects

    The Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC), in collaboration with Cesar Australia and the University of Melbourne, has released an updated version of the Beneficials Chemical Toxicity Table. This essential resource, part of the Australian Grains Pest Innovation Program (AGPIP), provides grain growers and advisers with critical information on the impact of insecticides and miticides on beneficial insects, such as ladybird beetles, parasitoid wasps, predatory mites, lacewings, and hoverflies. First introduced in 2022, the table helps integrate pest management strategies by categorizing chemical treatments based on their toxicity to beneficial species, using a color-coded system for easy interpretation. The update includes new data and insights, particularly on Australian wolf spiders and hoverflies, enhancing the table's role in supporting informed decision-making for effective pest control with minimal harm to beneficial organisms.

  • Prevention the key to biosecurity when sowing
    Biosecurity, 13 Mar 2024
    Prevention the key to biosecurity when sowing

    To minimise the risk of plant pathogens and pests spreading through the transportation of seed, there are a few simple farm biosecurity practices that can boost farm hygiene when planning to sow winter crops. Prevention is better than cure, so taking the time to plan will help minimise problems down the track.

  • Honey bee surveillance plays vital role in grains industry
    Biosecurity, 22 Jan 2024
    Honey bee surveillance plays vital role in grains industry

    The National Bee Pest Surveillance Program is an early warning system that uses a range of surveillance methods at seaports and airports throughout Australia, as these are the most likely entry points for honey bee pests and pest bees. Surveillance at additional ports is also provided through in-kind contributions by state and territory governments.

  • Oat noodles and oat ‘rice’ headed for supermarket shelves
    Biosecurity, 12 Jan 2024
    Oat noodles and oat ‘rice’ headed for supermarket shelves

    Oat scientists at the Australian Export Grains Innovation Centre have developed manufacturing processes for 100 per cent wholegrain noodles and a ‘rice’ product that can be eaten like regular rice. Made from Australian oats, which are high in beta-glucan, the products offer superior nutritional benefits.

  • Gene editing to enhance colour and flavour in wheat
    Biosecurity, 11 Jan 2024
    Gene editing to enhance colour and flavour in wheat

    The Agricultural Biotechnology Council of Australia is an industry initiative established to increase public awareness of, and encourage informed debate and decision-making about, gene technology.

  • Making on-farm biosecurity work for you
    Biosecurity, 10 Jan 2024
    Making on-farm biosecurity work for you

    The end of harvest is the ideal time for growers to review farm biosecurity plans to protect their business from the impact of new and harmful pests and diseases. There is a common misconception that implementing on-farm biosecurity is complicated and expensive; it does not have to be – it should just suit your purposes.

  • Surveillance – an essential component of grains biosecurity
    Biosecurity, 09 Jan 2024
    Surveillance – an essential component of grains biosecurity

    Australia has a comprehensive biosecurity system that undertakes risk-reducing activities through a continuum of pre-border, border and post-border activities. It prevents the entry, establishment and spread of new grain pests, which is vital in supporting the international competitiveness and ultimate profitability of the grains industry.

  • Recognise danger signs to protect crops and industry
    Biosecurity, 06 Sep 2023
    Recognise danger signs to protect crops and industry

    The Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry estimates that the top 40 exotic pests and diseases could cost the broadacre and horticulture crop industries up to $29.3 billion in losses and put jobs at risk. Learning how to recognise the signs of damaging pests and diseases is probably the most important tool in on-farm biosecurity practices and is crucial to protecting crops and Australia’s grains industry.

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