GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09

www.grdc.com.au The GRDC

The Grains Research and Development Corporation is a statutory authority established to plan and invest in R&D for the Australian grains industry.

Its primary objective is to support effective competition by Australian grain growers in global grain markets, through enhanced profitability and sustainability.

Its primary business activity is the allocation and management of investment in grains R&D.

GRDC Vision GRDC Mission GRDC Values Driving innovation for a profitable To invest in innovation for the • Commitment and action in and environmentally sustainable greatest benefit to its stakeholders. meeting the needs of our Australian grains industry. This will be achieved by being a stakeholders and exceeding global leader in linking science, their expectations technology and commercialisation • Winning as a team with industry and community needs. • Achievement of superior results • Creativity and innovation • Openness and trust in dealing with people • A performance-driven culture • Ethical behaviour in all our activities

TELEPHONE: 02 6166 4500 FACSIMILE: 02 6166 4599 EMAIL: [email protected] INTERNET: www.grdc.com.au

2 GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 Report from the Chair and Managing Director

An overview of the GRDC, its 2008–09 investment highlights and current activities throughout the regions.

The Australian grains industry continued to in Western Australia and 9.7 mt in New undergo significant change in 2008–09. South Wales – these two states accounted Major developments included the for 70 percent of total 2008–09 national deregulation of bulk wheat export marketing winter crop production. arrangements and the lifting of the moratoria Keith Perrett Peter Reading The 2008–09 summer crop production was Chair Managing Director on genetically modified (GM) canola in New 2.9 mt, showing a decrease of 19 percent South Wales and Victoria. The global compared with the 3.6 mt produced in the responsibility for the Wheat Variety financial crisis resulted in increased volatility previous ‘bumper’ year. Classification system which was previously in commodity prices and farm input costs. managed by AWB International. By 30 June The GRDC continues to drive research and Overall, during the 2008–09 season more 2009, more than 40 varieties had been development to help provide you with than 36 mt of grain was produced. Although classified under the new arrangements and improved technologies to address both the grain prices retreated in the second half of a wheat quality council had been challenges and opportunities presented by 2008–09, the total crop had a gross value established to oversee classification a rapidly changing grains industry. of production of more than $11 billion – guidelines. the highest value ever recorded. There were many other highlights throughout Grain production 2008–09 as a result of targeted GRDC The production of winter grains and oilseeds Highlights of 2008–09 investments under the GRDC’s Strategic in 2008–09 was around 33.1 million tonnes Following a request from the Hon. R&D Plan 2007–12, Prosperity through (mt). This was a 30 percent increase on the Tony Burke, MP, Minister for Agriculture, Innovation, which is now into its third year previous season. Production was 13.6 mt Fisheries and Forestry, the GRDC assumed of implementation. Some selected highlights – explained in more detail in the Regional and Output Group reports later in this Total grain production per state over the 5 years 2004–09 Growers’ Report – include: Million tonnes • The long standing strategic alliance 15 between GRDC, CIMMYT (the International 14 Maize and Wheat Improvement Center) 13 and ICARDA (the International Center for 12 Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas) 11 enabled Australian breeding programs to access more than 1300 elite drought- 10 tolerant and disease-resistant wheat 9 and pulse breeding lines. 8 • External and internal financial analysis of 7 GRDC projects showed benefit to cost 6 ratios ranging from 1.5:1 to as high as 36:1. 5 The Australian Cereal Rust Control Program 4 benefit to cost ratio of 23:1 was the highest 3 among a group of ‘Hero Projects’ reviewed across the rural R&D corporations. 2 1 • More than 50 blackleg-resistant canola lines with higher resistance than existing 0 2004–05 2005–06 2006–07 2007–08 2008–09 cultivars, including both polygenic and ■ WA ■ SA ■ Vic (incl Tas) ■ NSW ■ Qld major gene resistance sources, were accessed by private canola breeders.

Where your 2008–09 research dollars were invested ($m)

TOTAL CROSS-COMMODITY COARSE GRAINS GRAIN LEGUMES OILSEEDS WHEAT ($106.25m total) ($77.25m total) ($9.29m total) ($7.41m total) ($4.80m total) ($7.48m total)

■ Northern region 23.29 ■ Northern region 16.26 ■ Northern region 2.08 ■ Northern region 1.18 ■ Northern region 1.19 ■ Northern region 2.56 ■ Southern region 48.72 ■ Southern region 34.70 ■ Southern region 5.17 ■ Southern region 3.33 ■ Southern region 2.37 ■ Southern region 3.13 ■ Western region 34.23 ■ Western region 26.28 ■ Western region 2.04 ■ Western region 2.88 ■ Western region 1.23 ■ Western region 1.78

GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 3 Report from the Chair and Managing Director

• GRDC-supported breeding programs released many new, improved crop How the GRDC is funded varieties. • All Australian breeders of wheat, barley, The quality and extent of Australian grains research, development and extension is envied triticale, oats, pulses and canola throughout the world. The unique method of public and industry research funding, national coordination and structure – and ultimately extension – provides continuing scientific and (including GM canola) took part in the management breakthroughs for grain growers. This translates into productivity gains GRDC’s National Variety Trials. essential in maintaining competitiveness in world markets. • Fourteen new farming systems investments were established, bringing Depending on seasonal conditions, the grains industry invests around $100 million each together grain growers, researchers and year through the GRDC on research. This is funded by a combination of: agribusiness, to enhance the validation • growers paying a statutory levy of 0.99 percent of the net farm gate value of grain and integration of new technologies in produced (maize is levied at 0.693 percent); and, local farming systems. • a sliding scale of matching contributions from the Australian Government. Depending on • In collaboration with the Cotton Research the prevailing market value of the various grains, this sliding scale means the government and Development Corporation, the GRDC contributes around 30 to 40 percent of the total levies collected. developed a number of cooperative The Australian Government matches the levy income up to a maximum of 0.5 percent of programs addressing productivity and the gross value of grains production, provided the government contribution does not climate change in irrigated cotton and exceed grower levies. grain farming systems. This system of joint statutory collections raised over $130 million in 2008–09 which was in • The GRDC is leading the nitrous oxide turn invested back into the industry via the funding of hundreds of research projects. component of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry The 25 leviable grain crops are: wheat; coarse grains (barley, oats, sorghum, maize, Climate Change Research Program, triticale, millets/panicums, cereal rye and canary seed); pulses (lupins, field peas, chickpeas, faba beans, vetch, peanuts, mungbeans, navy beans, pigeon peas, and is a key participant in the soil cowpeas and lentils); and oilseeds (canola, sunflower, soybean, safflower and linseed). carbon and crop adaptation components of the program. Where is your money invested?

R&D priorities Where you want R&D funds invested The GRDC’s role is to invest in R&D and related activities to benefit Current R&D priorities for growers were identified during the Australian grain growers, industry and the wider community. development of Prosperity through Innovation. This involved consultations with local research advisory committees, grower There are four key strategies the GRDC follows to achieve this: groups and organisations and individual grain growers. • The coordination of a national grains R&D agenda and portfolio; Your main R&D priorities included: • Delivering results according to Australian Government priorities; • Environmental • Growing and leveraging total grains R&D investment; and, – responses to climate change • Ensuring that R&D is market-driven. – improved water use efficiency In short, the GRDC invests in grains research to address – sustainability and resource management impediments to improving grain growers’ profitability and – soil health and biology sustainability. This means allocating available funds across a • Farm management range of investment areas including: – integrated farming practices and technologies • the investigation and evaluation of the requirements for R&D in – integrated management of weeds, diseases and pests the grains industry; – herbicide resistance management • the coordination and/or funding of R&D activities; and, • Variety development • helping with the dissemination, adoption and commercialisation – biotechnology for improving genetic gain of the results of R&D. – superior new varieties • New and innovative product development Like all successful businesses, the GRDC periodically reviews its goals and plans so your invested dollars are accurately aimed at • Capacity building favourable end results. – improving skills, training and education in agriculture – farm business management. Key drivers of change in the Australian grains industry include water availability, productivity growth, growers’ terms of trade, grain market dynamics, customer expectations and farm demographics. Investing in these grain grower priorities During 2008–09 the GRDC has invested in many projects which The GRDC Strategic Plan 2007–2012 – Prosperity through Innovation directly address the issues you have requested to be – encourages stakeholders and research partners to meet clearly investigated. defined performance measures and outcomes. At the end of the day we need growers adopting technologies and practices to help Many of these projects are outlined in the GRDC Regional Reports them remain globally competitive. and Investment Highlights sections of this Growers’ Report.

4 GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 Report from the Chair and Managing Director

• Following the announcement of the closure of Land and Water Australia, the GRDC has assumed the lead role National Variety Trials reviewed and improved for the Managing Climate Variability (MCV) program and the Healthy Soils The GRDC funds the National Variety Trials (NVT) program across Australia. The program for Sustainable Farms program website. was established in 2005 and now involves more than 590 trials sown at over 250 locations each year and is the largest independent crop evaluation program in the world. • An independent survey of growers showed that 83 percent of those surveyed believed NVT is managed by the Australian Crop Accreditation System Limited (ACAS) under a that the GRDC was delivering value in service agreement with the GRDC. Crops tested include wheat, barley, triticale, oats, terms of research dollars invested. canola, lupins, lentils, field peas, faba beans and chickpeas. • The GRDC was a finalist in the Commercial-scale variety trials are vital to the future of the grains industry. NVT will be Governance category of the NAB improved following an extensive consultative review undertaken by the GRDC during 2008. Agribusiness Awards. The review, planned when NVT was established, incorporated more than 360 group and • Fourteen case studies on the economic individual submissions. benefits of precision agriculture It involved targeted surveys and interviews with NVT management and extension demonstrated an average incremental providers, key industry groups including grower representative bodies, rural advisory return of $19 per hectare through the committees, plant breeding organisations, agronomists and trial service providers. use of precision agriculture methods. A timeline for implementation of review recommendations is available from the GRDC • TagTeam, a Rhizobium inoculant including website at www.grdc.com.au/nvtreview. phosphorous-solubilising microbes for One of the findings of the review is the need for a more formalised advisory and use with grain legumes, was launched. consultative mechanism for stakeholder involvement in NVT operations. • The GRDC produced Grain Market Lingo, The review team recommended the establishment of NVT Advisory Committees that a free publication which provides factual, would meet annually, be chaired by a GRDC representative, and include the NVT objective information on price risk Manager, representatives from breeders, growers, agronomists, plant pathologists, management. Grain Market Lingo has statisticians, service providers and include an R&D extension expert. become a ‘must have’ resource in many of the grain-marketing workshops held Rather than a single committee attempting to meet the needs of all crop types, separate around Australia. NVT advisory committees will be established for wheat, barley (and coarse grains), canola and pulses. • The GRDC, in collaboration with CropLife Australia, distributed more than 40,000 The GRDC will appoint one representative from each GRDC region on each of these copies of the Herbicide Resistance four committees. Mode of Action Groups booklet. The revamped NVT will also feature additional state-based disease resistance ratings in • An international collaboration was response to stakeholder feedback. established with AgResearch in New The review also identified considerable variation in the quality of service delivered by NVT Zealand, to research the use of service providers. The first stage of the new selection process for NVT service providers will endophytes targeting the control of be to identify possible providers in all NVT regions through an open, multi-stage tender. heat and water stress and insect The assessment of tenders will be by a panel of industry experts, including grower control in cereals. representatives from each GRDC cropping region. Successful service providers will Challenges going forward commence operation at the start of the 2010 season. The GRDC has committed to a further five-year term of the NVT program thereby ensuring The GRDC operates in an ever-changing the continued delivery of independent and accurate varietal information to growers. grains industry driven by factors such as evolving national and international market dynamics, including the deregulation of These changes mean that the GRDC must: Australian Bureau of Agricultural and wheat marketing, high volatility of grain • work closely with its stakeholders (grain Resource Economics to total factor prices and input costs, and impacts of growers, the Australian Government and productivity growth in the Australian climate change. RD&E partners) to develop strategies grains industry. In Australia the grains industry ‘supply and programs that will positively chain’ is experiencing significant changes contribute to productivity growth in at all levels, affecting marketing, grain a sustainable way; and handling and logistics, grower representative • clearly demonstrate and communicate organisations, R&D and operations at the the financial, environmental and social farm level. impacts that RD&E contributes to the growth of the Australian grains industry Factors directly affecting R&D include a and the nation as a whole. declining rate of total factor productivity growth, pressure on state department of Significant examples of how the GRDC is agriculture budgets, increasing private addressing such issues include continuing investment in research, development and collaborative work on a national grains extension (RD&E), and the potential RD&E strategy; and a major study that the impacts of biotechnology. GRDC commenced in 2008–09 with the

GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 5 Report from the Chair and Managing Director

GRDC structure

The GRDC is based in Canberra and currently has 50 staff and operates under the direction of a Board of eight directors. A team of executive managers lead the corporation’s business activities. As well as advising the GRDC Board, the management team is responsible for realising the Board’s priorities and managing and evaluating R&D investments in the Australian grains industry.

The GRDC coordinates a national portfolio and market-driven approach to grains The three regional chairs (from left) Neil Young (western panel), David Shannon (southern panel) and James Clark (northern panel) are members of the GRDC National Panel which recommends research investment R&D. At the operational level, the GRDC’s strategies to the GRDC Board. Photo: GRDC organisational structure is divided into three Lines of Business (LOBs): The LOBs coordinate the GRDC research National Panel investments within their respective • Practices The GRDC National Panel includes the business areas. • Varieties chairs of the three regional panels, the • New Products The panel system Managing Director and the executive managers. It is the key body for developing These LOBs, or ‘output groups’, are The panel system is a key strength of the and recommending to the Board overall supported by three enabling functions: GRDC. The Board makes decisions with corporate strategies and direction. Corporate Services, Legal & Procurement the support of a national advisory panel, and Corporate Strategy & Impact informed by the knowledge and experience The National Panel also develops and Assessment. of three regional panels and three recommends investment proposals for program teams. This network helps to the national elements of the GRDC’s A fourth group, Communication & Capacity ensure that GRDC investments are research programs. Building, delivers the outputs of the directed towards the interests of all its communication and capacity building In doing so, the National Panel considers stakeholders and the strategic objectives programs that are managed within the advice from the program teams that of its programs. three LOBs. manage the R&D investment portfolio. Regional panels GRDC Board Three separate advisory panels cover the northern, southern and western grain growing regions of Australia. GRDC National Panel Supported by the GRDC program Northern Southern Western Executive managers, the three regional panels: Panel Chair Panel Chair Panel Chair Management Team • identify and prioritise local, regional and national grains industry issues that are relevant to the grains industry • communicate to the growers in the Lines of Business Enabling Functions regions about the GRDC’s investments, research outcomes, activities and New Corporate Practices Varieties Products Corporate Strategy Legal & strategic direction Services & Impact Procurement • make recommendations on the budget Assessment Communication & Capacity Building allocation to meet regional R&D needs.

The panels’ work, and the expertise of their GRDC Program Teams members, is crucial to the corporation’s success. Panel members come from various backgrounds and include growers, Note: For the purposes of performance reporting researchers, agronomists/consultants, Northern Southern Western against the GRDC Annual Operational Plan 2008–09 and Regional Regional Regional representatives from agribusiness and the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Panel Panel Panel the GRDC executive managers. There is Fisheries and Forestry Portfolio Budget Statements 2008–09, each line of business corresponds to an also provision for other industry experts to output group. The fourth output group, Communication participate as appropriate. Regional panel & Capacity Building, is a combination of communication members also participate as members of and capacity-building programs managed within the other three output groups. the GRDC program teams.

6 GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 Report from the Chair and Managing Director

Having your say! The GRDC determines its investment GRDC financials at a glance priorities jointly with industry, government and research partners, and acts in partnership Where 2008–09 research levies GRDC reserves, R&D payments with public and private researchers, other came from ($m) and revenue ($ million) R&D funding organisations, agribusiness people and groups of grain growers. 160 140 New ideas are the life-blood of the grains ■ Coarse grains $22.7 industry and there are various ways you ■ Grain legumes $5.0 120 can have your say about anything to do with ■ Oilseeds $9.2 100 ■ the GRDC, including general or specific Wheat $52.3 80 research direction. Regional panel members 60 are always happy to hear from you while GRDC Investments in 2008–09 40 the E-Concept initiative provides a formal by Line of Business ($m) mechanism for anyone, at anytime, to put 20 forward an idea to the corporation for ■ Practices $43.85 0 consideration. The E-Concept is available ■ Varieties $43.82 to both the public and private sectors ■ New Products $10.28 1997–98 1998–99 1999–00 2000–01 2001–02 2002–03 2003–04 2004–05 2005–06 2006–07 2007–08 2008–09 (see GRDC website for more details ■ Communication and Capacity —— Reserves/Equity —— R&D Payments www.grdc.com.au). Building $6.72 —— Total revenue The GRDC’s achievements depend on the effective and timely implementation of the How the 2008–09 figures stacked up corporation’s strategies, which in turn depends on the cooperation of the Board, INCOME 2008–09= EXPENDITURE & INVESTMENTS 2008–09 $m $m panel members and staff, and strong 90 120 relationships with research partners and 75 100 growers. 60 80 On behalf of the corporation, we would like 45 60 to thank you for your significant contributions 30 40 to grains industry R&D in 2008–09 and look 15 20 forward to your continuing support as we 0 0 strive to deliver benefits to growers. ■ Industry contributions 89.21 ■ R&D payments 106.25 ■ Commonwealth contributions 43.90 ■ Employees 6.10 ■ Interest income 10.01 ■ Suppliers and others 8.91 ■ Project refunds, royalties & other income 7.27 ■ Movement in reserves 29.13

GRDC financial overview Keith Perrett Peter Reading 2008–09 2007–08 2006–07 2005–06 2004–05 Chair Managing Director Grower R&D levies collected $89.2m $76.6m $50.9m $60.9m $64.2m Australian Govt. matching contributions $43.9m $37.6m $35.8m $43.1m $35.7m Interest, royalties & other income $17.3m $13.0m $11.9m $12.9m $11.3m a Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Total GRDC revenue $150.4m $127.2m $98.6m $116.9m $111.2m Economics (ABARE) estimates for the number of broadacre farms planting at least 100 hectares for grain R&D project expenses $106.3m $89.1m $105.6m $116.1m $107.1m production—From the Australian Grains report series, Employees, suppliers, administration, 2005 to 2009. Figures for 2004–05 to 2007–08 restate dep’cn $11.7m $11.5m $11.3m $11.2m $11.1m the estimated numbers of grain farms shown in previous Asset revaluations $3.3m $1.9m $1.3m $0.2m $2.0m GRDC Annual Reports in accordance with this new definition of a grain farm. Previous reports defined a Total GRDC expenditure $121.3m $102.5m $118.2m $127.5m $120.2m grain farm as a broadacre farm planting more than 30 hectares per year for grain production. Operating surplus/(deficit) $28.5m $24.1m ($19.8m) ($10.6m) ($9.0m) b Latest ABARE estimates for the gross value of Total assets $159.1m $117.5m $106.0m $127.7m $135.7m production (GVP) of grains and oilseeds, excluding Total equity $118.7m $89.7m $65.6m $84.1m $94.7m rice—From the June 2009 Australian Commodities report. Figures for 2004–05 to 2007–08 restate the GVP Grains industry profile estimates shown in previous GRDC Annual Reports in Number of farms growing more accordance with this change to using ABARE data. than 100 ha of grain per year c Latest ABARE estimates for total summer and winter (ABARE estimate)a 28,455 28,081 29,000 30,900 27,600 crop production, excluding cottonseed and rice, from the June 2009 Australian Crop Report. Estimated gross value of grain productionb $11,154m $10,160m $5,024m $8,540m $7,263m Note: Figures for the 2004–05 to 2006–07 reporting periods have been restated in accordance with a new Total winter & summer crop grain c accounting policy regarding grant income. production (million tonnes) 36.04mt 29.04mt 19.20mt 43.40mt 37.29mt

GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 7 From the GRDC Regions

the University of New England (UNE) are Where your 2008–09 research dollars North examples. Both institutions have made were invested in the North ($m) substantial new investments in grains R&D. $23.29m TOTAL The University of Sydney recently Enhancing the profitability of ■ announced a $5 million plus investment of Cross-commodity $16.26 northern region growers remains the number ■ Coarse grains $2.08 research funds for the Plant Breeding one priority for the GRDC northern panel. ■ Grain legumes $1.18 Institute at Narrabri, NSW. This program will ■ Oilseeds $1.19 As part of setting research priorities the ensure there is a focus on pre-breeding and ■ Wheat $2.56 Panel commissioned an independent report training of plant breeders in the northern in 2008 to determine key profit drivers for region. This is a valuable contribution in the northern region and to form a picture of ensuring succession of skills and knowledge Southern Coastal Farming Systems project, where the grains industry will be 20 years for all northern breeding programs. led by Queensland Primary Industries and from now. Fisheries (QPIF) principal agronomist It is likely wheat, sorghum and barley will Farming systems Dr Mike Bell, will enhance soil health and remain the major crops produced in the The GRDC’s investments in farming ultimately impact on levels of fertiliser use region and the R,D&E investment focus will systems in the northern region are currently in sugarcane. be on other key issues such as water use under review and new projects will begin in Also the Central Queensland Sustainable efficiency, yield gains and disease control. July 2010. Farming Systems project is in its third phase The wild swings in seasonal conditions and Our challenge is to shape farming systems’ of funding which runs until June 2010. market prices of the past few seasons have projects that address immediate research QPIF reports economic evaluation has driven home the need to take a long term problems while also taking a strategic demonstrated benefits of $20 to $35 per view of funding grains R&D, and also the approach to answering long-term research hectare per year improvement in gross need for strong monetary reserves to smooth questions. margins to central Queensland dryland crop these seasonal variations within the GRDC. For example, farming systems research producers. The project has been shown to Even though domestic grain supply in the into practices to combat crown rot, such return $4 in benefits for every $1 spent on north has improved in recent times – due to as inter-row sowing is a high priority – but the project. better summer crop yields and the easing of so too is the longer term goal of crown drought conditions in most areas – we still rot-resistant germplasm. Crown rot seem to be operating in an environment of In late June 2009 the GRDC northern panel high grain price volatility. The GRDC is also investing in soil health, fertiliser efficiency and weed control within met with key crown rot researchers, wheat This increased volatility is also influencing the farming system. But the GRDC continues breeding companies and agronomists to many longer-term farm management to promote existing technologies such as review the direction of crown rot funding. decisions. For example, it has boosted the conservation farming where there is still scope A new five-year crown rot project will be amount and types of on-farm grain storage for greater adoption. Investments in coastal launched in July 2010. A new focus for this and the GRDC is responding to grower farming systems, particularly the role of project is the delivery of clearly defined needs for more information on grain storage. legumes in rotations, are also being explored. outputs such as providing parent lines to all A significant challenge facing the grains A joint initiative between the GRDC and wheat breeding companies. Pre-breeding industry is continued pressure on RD&E the Sugar Research and Development and germplasm research will remain a funding. However, it was very encouraging Corporation (SRDC), launched in late 2008, high priority in the new project. to note the following new investments in the is supporting the linking of coastal farming Northern Region. The project will also continue to deliver operations with rotational legume cropping development and extension activities The University of Sydney at Narrabri and knowledge critical to the future viability of focused on improved management strategies the new soils infrastructure investments at the region. The GRDC funded Burnett and for crown rot. These activities are delivering – and will continue to deliver – major short term advances in combating this disease.

A recent Northern Grower Alliance (NGA) survey shows 40 percent of respondents believe their level of crown rot risk has decreased over the past 5 to 10 years.

Advisers and growers attribute this decreased risk to effective use of rotations, backing up the GRDC-funded research recommendations.

About 35 percent of respondents believe crown rot risk has risen and nearly all cited increased stubble retention or increased wheat-on-wheat cropping as the main Nicole Birrell, GRDC director; Mark Hansen, Burdekin farm manager; Aaron Sanderson, GRDC northern panel member. Photo: Rachel Bowman, Cox Inall reasons.

8 GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 From the GRDC Regions – North

Respondents who indicated increased risk GOA already has trials in the ground, still had more than 80 percent of their including investigating trace element nutrition cropping area affected with expected yield in wheat and increasing the reliability of losses (in average years) of 250 to 500 kg canola in rotations through optimising row per hectare and greater than 1000 kg per spacing and improving aphid control. hectare losses in worst case seasons. Other trials include evaluating in-furrow These results further reinforce the view that treatments for stripe rust control in wheat developing and maintaining a sound and seed treatments for insect control. rotation is still the key strategy to minimise GOA is also helping with some validation the impact of crown rot. work for the NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) looking at potential Cereal rust options for crown rot control.

Tackling cereal rust remains a high priority. Spring and summer priorities include It is both a social and ethical obligation windmill grass and fleabane control in for all the region’s growers. It is not summer fallows and windrowing timing in acceptable to allow crops to develop canola, with additional issues also being with uncontrolled rust. considered.

The GRDC continues to promote its The GOA area of operation has the potential three-pronged strategy of: James Clark, Northern Regional Panel Chair. to cover some six million hectares including • controlling the green bridge of Photo: Rachel Bowman, Cox Inall 25 percent of the northern region wheat over-summering volunteer plants; area and 57 percent of the canola area. The • choosing rust-resistant varieties; and • Key issues for NGA’s other winter trials region extends from Coonamble in the north, include aphid management in barley and south to Wellington/Peak Hill, east to Coolah • using an appropriate fungicidal control and west to cropping areas around Nyngan. program if needed. other cereals, crown rot and nematode tolerance, crown rot and foliar fungicides, The ground-breaking alliance of the GRDC, The GRDC has funded numerous fungicide stripe rust management with in-furrow growers and advisers will: application timing trials in the northern fertiliser, millet cover cropping, tactical region which have helped develop nitrogen management in wheat, nitrogen • link research providers and growers valuable control recommendations for volatilisation, nutrient impact on foliar across the region; growers. diseases, efficiency of phosphorus • develop science-based management sources at planting, and plant growth packages; and Northern Grower Alliance regulators in winter cereals. • ensure optimisation of funds invested in The Northern Grower Alliance (NGA) is The NGA research priorities are developed research and extension to the benefit of working with grower-collaborators across in collaboration with local management all growers in the region. northern NSW on the GRDC-funded winter committees made up of growers and and summer crop research projects. advisers. Panel tours Ground-truthing research in a commercial The northern panel has successfully The new NGA Validator report will be on-farm setting is a vital part of providing restructured its touring program to include released shortly and is recommended to relevant and timely farming systems a traditional spring tour, which has been all growers and consultants in the research results. shortened, plus an autumn tour. This allows northern region. the panel to interact with more researchers NGA has established on-farm research sites and growers across a broader area of the which include salvage options for herbicide Grain Orana Alliance northern region. resistant wild oats. NGA is comparing the The newly-launched Grain Orana Alliance efficacy of salvage herbicide options, with (GOA) has hit the ground running with a In April 2009 the panel toured the South and without fungicide, in chickpeas research extension manager, Maurie Street, Burnett and Bundaberg regions to explore following a Group A herbicide failure. in place and a series of focus groups the potential of coastal farming systems. In September 2009, GRDC panel member Other winter crop NGA research trials underway across the central west region of NSW. and Ayr-based grower Aaron Sanderson, include: hosted the panel in north Queensland’s • Evaluating the effectiveness of fungicides GOA will fast-track answers to local grain Burdekin Irrigation Area, coastal hinterland for head scab management. NGA is growing issues and is part of a new and Cairns region. running two trials on the Liverpool Plains approach to farming research and extension Finally I would like to thank the members in high risk situations. that will provide a rapid turnaround of of the northern panel for the time and • Comparing the weed spectrum and research questions. commitment they have given throughout the length of residual control across a range Through GOA the GRDC aims to facilitate a year. It has been a very busy year for the of environments and monitoring for better collaboration between all stakeholders panel, but all members remain committed to plant-back issues in the 2010 winter crop. in the grains industry by bringing together keeping grain growing in the region profitable. • Comparing the weed spectrum and researchers, advisers, growers and length of residual control across a range agribusiness to develop solutions and get James Clark, of in-crop herbicides. them on-farm as soon as possible. Chair, GRDC Northern Regional Panel

GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 9 From the GRDC Regions – South

undertaken by Southern Farming Systems Where your 2008–09 research dollars South were also visited. were invested in the South ($m)

Day three included a visit to Marcus $48.72m TOTAL Oldham College near Geelong where panel The 2009 cropping season is ■ members were given an overview of the Cross-commodity $34.70 expected to produce a harvest of mixed ■ Coarse grains $5.17 courses on offer, and a tour of Nufarm’s fortunes for growers in the southern region. ■ Grain legumes $3.33 Laverton facility. The final day was spent ■ Oilseeds $2.37 For many growers throughout parts of South in Tasmania, at the state’s Institute of ■ Wheat $3.13 Australia, Victoria and Tasmania, the season Agricultural Research and on-farm, where up until late September was shaping up as local issues were discussed. one of the best for many years. Good rain in September boosted crop potential in many areas and the mood has certainly been one of growing optimism.

But the same cannot be said, unfortunately, for growers in all southern regions. For example, southern NSW in particular has missed out on desperately needed winter and spring rainfall. Spring Tour This year the southern regional panel was divided into two groups for the 2009 annual spring panel tours in September – the High Rainfall Zone (HRZ) and Low Rainfall Zone touring parties.

High Rainfall Zone The HRZ tour was largely focused on research, trials and developments in the The high rainfall zone panel tour participants visited Marcus Oldham College near Geelong in Victoria. Pictured (from left) are Sam Inglis, Director of Corporate Training at Marcus Oldham; GRDC Board Secretary, higher rainfall zones of South Australia’s Geoff Budd; panel members Merna Curnow; Allan Mayfield; and Peter Schwarz; Marcus Oldham Principal south-east, Victoria’s Western District and Simon Livingstone; panel deputy chair, Mark Peoples; panel member Andy Barr; and panel chair David Shannon. Tasmania. Day one’s program in the south-east of South Australia included Northern Low Rainfall Zone inspections of trials and research projects The Low Rainfall Zone touring party program trial site at Wellington, a tour of the Manildra involving oats and wheat, black leg in began at Tamworth where they visited the Milling complex, and a discussion with the canola, precision agriculture, deep ripping, local Agricultural Institute which plays an NSW Industry & Investment project officer at and clay delving and spreading. important breeding role for the southern Parkes. This was followed by an inspection cropping zone. Field trials were inspected of soil moisture monitoring and liquid Day two included a visit to the Victorian DPI and presentations on disease management fertiliser trials. office in Hamilton where panel members and breeding programs were provided. were informed about projects relating to Day three’s travels included meetings with agronomic practices, wheat breeding and Day two included a visit to Conservation NSW DPI and Central West Farming carbon research in the HRZ. Projects being Agriculture and No-Till Farming Association’s Systems personnel at Condobolin, a farm visit at Ungarie and a meeting with representatives from Wyalong Rural Investments. The importance of grazing cereals in farming systems was one of the issues discussed on the final day when the touring party visited West Wyalong, Quandialla, Temora and Wagga Wagga.

The two tour groups met in Melbourne for a debrief and exchange of notes at the conclusion of their respective tours.

By visiting trial sites and research centres and meeting with growers, advisers, researchers and industry personnel, the annual spring tours play a valuable role in giving panel members a first-hand

Members of the southern regional panel visited the Conservation Agriculture and No-Till Farming Association appreciation of local issues and assisting trials site at Wellington. them to identify local R&D priorities.

10 GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 From the GRDC Regions – South

GRDC Research Updates an opportunity for prospective research organisations and farmer groups to work Another successful series of the GRDC with the GRDC to provide grain growers Technical Research Updates for Growers with the technologies and practices was conducted throughout the southern needed to effectively compete in global region in July and August. Attendances grain markets. were most encouraging as was the increasing interest and involvement in the Projects to deliver new grain varieties, Updates by the younger generation of improved farming practices, new farm farmers. The information presented at the products and information to grain growers Updates by noted guest speakers was are to start in July 2010. The Investment well received by growers and other Plan addresses issues relating to climate industry representatives. change, productivity growth, supply chain and markets, natural resource management The Updates are an important forum for and biosecurity. informing growers about the latest developments in GRDC-funded research Increased farm profitability and sustainability and initiatives, and for growers to raise are what the GRDC’s investments in grains and discuss any industry-based issues research and development are all about. and concerns they may have. Supported by growers and the Australian Government, the GRDC is looking for The next round of Updates will be those research partners who can provide the designed specifically for advisers. To be innovative tools, resources, knowledge and held in Wagga Wagga, Ballarat and products needed for our grains industry Adelaide in February and March 2010, to remain at the global forefront. the Adviser Updates Program will be of enormous value to the network of grains The future industry agronomists and advisers who Rising input costs and a changing, more play a critical role in research extension. Dr T.J. Higgins (left) was presented with the GRDC Seed of Light 2009 award for his outstanding variable climate, are placing more contribution to grains R&D communication by David pressure on growers which in turn prompts Seed of Light Awards Shannon (grower and GRDC southern panel chair). consideration of long-term changes to their grain production. CSIRO principal research scientist The Seed of Light was presented in Dr John Kirkegaard’s work to improve the The GRDC will continue to review and September at a CSIRO function in Canberra sustainability and productivity of Australian analyse all industry practices as it where colleagues and industry personnel farming systems was recognised in considers the direction of future research gathered to thank and farewell Dr Higgins February with the GRDC Seed of Light and development funding. who retired after 36 years with the CSIRO. Award. The Award recognises excellence Strategies for lower costs and higher profits in grains research and development are, naturally, a priority for growers and as communications. Investment Plan such the GRDC will continue to work The GRDC is seeking research partners Dr Kirkegaard’s award presentation took closely with industry in determining to help ensure the future viability and place at the Wagga Wagga Adviser Update. research priorities. sustainability of the national grains industry. Dr Kirkegaard joined the CSIRO as an In September the GRDC released its David Shannon, agronomist in 1990 to improve the Investment Plan 2010–11 which provides Chair, GRDC Southern Regional Panel productivity and sustainability of dryland mixed farming systems in south eastern Australia. He has worked closely with growers and farming systems groups and has been a regular presenter at GRDC Updates, field days and grower meetings and has been highly effective at communicating the outcomes of his research to growers as well as his scientific peers.

A second Seed of Light Award was presented to one of Australia’s leading researchers in plant gene technology. Dr TJ Higgins, retired Deputy Chief of the CSIRO Plant Industry Division, was recognised for his advocacy of and commitment to communicating the (From left) Mark Peoples (GRDC southern panel member), David Shannon (GRDC southern panel chair), Seed of outcomes of scientific research. Light recipient Dr John Kirkegaard together with southern panel members Andrew Rice and Chris Blanchard.

GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 11 From the GRDC Regions – West

Keeping growers in the loop Where your 2008–09 research dollars West One of the most important functions of the were invested in the West ($m) GRDC is to ensure that the research and $34.23m TOTAL development activities we undertake A welcome return to good growing ■ provide tangible benefits to grain growers. Cross-commodity $26.28 conditions in the northern wheatbelt marked ■ Coarse grains $2.04 To achieve this we listen closely to growers’ a variable cropping year across Western ■ Grain legumes $2.89 views on which areas of the cropping Australia in 2008. ■ Oilseeds $1.23 system could be improved through R&D, ■ Wheat $1.78 Strong prices for soft commodities and and then ensure that the outcomes of that high input costs added a layer of complexity research are communicated to growers as to grain growers’ decision-making during effectively as possible. the year, but across the state the year will be remembered largely as a successful Some of our most valuable feedback one for grain production. comes from the relationships we have built with the many grain production groups In partnership with grower groups and across WA. These groups are proactive research institutions such as the CSIRO, and grower driven and are highly valuable the state’s universities, the WA Department for the GRDC in both guiding research of Agriculture and Food and commercial priorities and extending the knowledge that organisations, the GRDC invested $34 million research uncovers to a wider audience. in research and development activities in WA. The GRDC’s national research program also In 2008–09 47 grower groups across WA contains many projects that have outcomes were involved in trial activities through our aimed at improving the productivity of WA support of the WA Grower Group Alliance. grain growers. One area we have identified for Lupins play a very important role in Clancy Michael’s improvement is in evaluating and farming operation located at Mingenew, WA. Research challenges for WA quantifying the value to growers of Photo: Evan Collis The key grain production challenges western GRDC-supported research. region growers talk about are water-use An example of where we are heading in High rainfall tour efficiency, weed control, managing input terms of evaluation is the publication of The western panel toured the high rainfall costs, controlling pests and disease and the AgTrans Research report in July. areas of WA to gain a better understanding the sustainability of their farming systems. This report analysed the GRDC’s investment of the research and development needs of The GRDC research priorities reflect those in no-till research in the western region this unique part of the state. challenges, with major projects initiated and found that each dollar invested The shift from livestock to increased or this year in precision agriculture, herbicide returned $36 in benefits to grain growers continuous cropping – in the Great tolerance, and lupin breeding. These through improved application of no-till Southern Region in particular – has created projects supplement our extensive techniques, and accelerated uptake of a new set of challenges around managing ongoing program of activities in WA. the practice. rotations, waterlogging, weeds and frost for growers in an area of high grain production potential.

Developing the skills of our people As much as the GRDC can invest in science and technology to improve farm productivity, true profitability can only come from grain growers themselves. This will be either through their ability to adopt technology provided by research or through their own innovation and initiative.

To develop these skills we have again supported the Nuffield Scholarship program. In June this year York grain grower Leon Ryan was awarded a GRDC Nuffield scholarship to investigate future demand for staples such as cereals and pulses, the social impact of higher food prices and price flexibility for specialty products, such as durum wheat for pasta. Leon’s scholarship will see him travel to China, India, the US, (From left) GRDC western panel chair Neil Young, Facey Group cropping group coordinator Gary Lang, Facey Group sustainable agriculture coordinator Maree Heenan and GRDC western panel member Merrie Carlshausen Canada and Argentina. The results of his at the Facey Group’s long-term crop rotation trial at Wickepin, WA. investigations will be available to all growers.

12 GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 From the GRDC Regions – West

Developing the skills of the farmers of the future was also the focus of the SEPWA and Liebe Groups combined Young Growers’ tour to South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales during the winter of 2009.

The GRDC also continued to invest in the capability of the scientists and researchers whose work is so vital in developing new technologies or helping farmers to adopt them on-farm.

This year the GRDC also supported the 12th International Lupin Conference in Perth, hosted WA farm consultants at a canopy management workshop, supported Panel members inspecting canola with grower Lachlan White and agronomist Clinton Muller, Elders Tincurrin, the industry-wide GrainsWest Expo and at the White’s property “Nepowie”, Narogin. worked closely with DAFWA and industry to bring WA the Agribusiness Crop this year reflecting its potential in WA. wider community, the western panel’s view Updates for 2009. The variety is highly resistant to ascochyta is that GM technology is like any other and has higher yield and larger grain size technology that can be applied to crops. As well as developing the skills of people in than the varieties it replaces. As such it should be developed and the WA grain industry, we also recognised independently tested so that growers can one of its great champions. Dr Bill Bowden This year the GRDC-supported researchers make informed decisions about whether was the 2009 winner of the GRDC Seed of also developed new technologies that will to go down the GM path. Light Award. Dr Bowden began his career make the plant breeding process faster as a cadet at the WA Department of and less costly. Western panel member Changing markets Agriculture in 1961. He has gone on to lead Professor Richard Oliver and his team at some of the state’s greatest grain industry Murdoch University made an important The changes to grain export regulations achievements, including the establishment breakthrough in identifying genes in wheat triggered new commercial behaviour by of CLIMA, the development of a range of that produce sensitivity to glume blotch buyers and generated a shift in growers’ farm decision-making tools, and perhaps and Septoria nodurum blotch. thinking about the way they market most importantly – the guidance of a their grain. This breakthrough will help breeders generation of agricultural researchers identify lines with susceptibility to the One of the key developments has been through the Department and through fungi much earlier in the breeding cycle. increased interest in on-farm storage. WA’s universities. The breakthrough has also been used to The GRDC initiated a new on-farm storage provide clearer guidance to growers on project with the appointment in WA of Plant breeding the degree of resistance current varieties Chris Newman as a project officer specialising in helping growers set up Through our investment in InterGrain, have to the disease. viable, safe on-farm storage systems. four new wheat varieties targeted at WA A similar application of gene identification, conditions were released during the year. developed by Dr Wujun Ma at Murdoch, A Western panel One of these, Fortune , was a much is also helping breeders through the early The western panel of GRDC is your local anticipated new ASWN variety with similar identification of genetic markers that indicate link into the activities of the organisation. yield, but importantly, improved quality dough strength and extensibility in wheat. over CalingiriA. Panel members comprise a range of WA farmers, talented local researchers and two A GM crops APW variety Endure is a long season of the GRDC’s executive management team. APW with triple rust resistance, and its APW A change in state government policy saw stable mate ZippyA, provides WA growers commercial scale trials of GM canola sown Western panel members are selected for with a strong short season alternative. in WA for the first time in 2009. While the their interest in progressing grains research crops have been developed by the major and development in WA, and their capacity The GRDC investment in Canola Breeders seed companies, the GRDC is also and willingness to engage with growers Western Australia resulted in the release contributing to the development of GM and industry so they can bring a range of of the world’s first triazine tolerant hybrid crops through its investment in Canola perspectives to the GRDC’s decision-making. with the release of TTriumph Jardee. Breeders Western Australia, and through This breakthrough mid-season variety offers I’d like to thank my fellow western panel its NVT evaluation program. canola growers the benefits of effective members for their valued contributions weed management with the yield bonus Most grain growers are supportive of the this year. associated with hybrid varieties, and is a introduction of GM technology, although it On behalf of the western panel I’d like to great example of what can be achieved must be acknowledged that there are some wish all grain growers a productive harvest when growers harness local expertise to who are concerned about its introduction. and best wishes for the new season. develop technology to suit their needs. While the decision to allow GM crops to be A new chickpea variety, PBA SlasherA, was grown is one for the state government in Neil Young, launched in Mingenew during September consultation with grain growers and the Chair, GRDC Western Regional Panel

GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 13 Investment Highlights

Precision agriculture Nutrient management Practices Group The economic benefits of the use of precision Although an abundance of fertiliser trials agriculture (PA) have been well demonstrated have been carried out across the Australian Practices objective in recent years through a collective project grain growing regions, many of the results Better practices developed and involving the GRDC, Department of have not been widely analysed or adopted faster. Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF), published, and much of the knowledge the National Landcare Program, CSIRO, the resides with individual scientists, fertiliser What the Practices group does South Australian Grain Industry Trust and the companies or grower groups. The GRDC and how it does it Southern Precision Agriculture Association. has supported the establishment of a Fourteen on-farm case studies from across project to compile and interpret these The Practices group develops and the national grain-belt indicated increased results (with statistical re-analysis where promotes innovative and integrated profits of $10 to $37 per hectare (average $19 necessary) in both regional and national practices and technologies to increase per hectare) through the use of PA methods. contexts. A national nutrient database has the grains industry’s capacity for on-farm been developed to fit within the national In 2008–09, the GRDC continued to support change. The focus is in the areas of soil soil database (ASRIS), to be the repository work to expand the range and relevance of constraints, water and nutrient use, of information collated and processed PA techniques and tools, and promote them crop threats, environmental variability, under the project. to growers Australia-wide. The research agronomic improvements and biosecurity. focus included ways to: The aim is to provide comprehensive The integration of natural resource • more accurately zone paddocks to information to improve growers’ fertiliser management practices into cropping maximise profit and minimise environmental decisions in cropping systems for all systems is essential for long-term impacts – this included studies of the Australian grain growing regions. A key viability of the grains industry. Through potential for novel tools such as element of the project has been the development of a nutrient loss index. the Practices group, the GRDC aligns electromagnetic induction and geophysics This index will allow advisers and growers sustainable production systems to characterise soil quickly and efficiently to assess nutrient losses to maximise the • drastically reduce herbicide use – a research at a farm level with broader, efficient use of fertilisers in cropping project with the South Australian community-based land use initiatives. systems. Research and Development Institute Because grower and adviser information (SARDI) aims to determine whether weed Salinity management needs and preferred delivery distribution is related to PA zones, and to mechanisms differ according to develop ways to efficiently integrate GPS Salinity is a problem in many grain growing production region, enterprise mix and and variable rate herbicide technology regions, and no crop currently displays sufficient tolerance to be recognised as individual circumstances, the Practices • reduce the labour and cost involved in productive on even moderately affected group packages, tailors and delivers soil sampling – a project with the salt land and areas prone to waterlogging. region-specific information. University of Sydney is developing a In addressing this issue for the sustainability system that will directly measure soil of grain farming, the GRDC is contributing Funds invested nitrate, sodium and potassium levels to several projects through the Future using electrochemical sensors and $43.85m was invested through Practices Farm Industries Cooperative Research ion-exchange kinetic models. in 2008–09. Centre (CRC). In addition, there was significant Conservation farming One project aims to develop a wheat variety that displays tolerance to salt and co-investment from research partners. In various guises, conservation farming waterlogging through hybridisation with wild has been practised in Australia for many relatives. Two crosses were tested in the years, and has demonstrated benefits field for the first time in 2008; breeding associated with profitability, soil erosion, work is currently underway to restore fertility water management and farming efficiencies. and other basic agronomic characters in However, no-till systems, in particular, these crosses. Twenty other crosses are have not been embraced in some areas, ready to be evaluated for salt and and potential problems (such as herbicide waterlogging tolerance. resistance and stratification of nutrients in surface soil) are becoming apparent in Another project, Evercrop™, will evaluate some established systems. Conservation and develop the use of perennial crops in farming must constantly evolve to meet the increasing profitability, resilience and changing needs of sustainable cropping. natural resource management outcomes in grain-producing regions. The GRDC supports R&D to take conservation farming forward, through developments such as improved stubble management; increased Weed management maintenance of ground cover, especially The National Integrated Weed Management through the use of cover crops; new nutrient Initiative (NIWMI), which builds on projects

Healthy soils are fundamental to food production and tests and fertiliser placement systems; and, completed in the CRC for Australian Weed carbon balance. Photo: Emma Leonard. the integration of spatial technologies. Management, focuses on integrated

14 GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 Investment Highlights – Practices Group

management approaches incorporating including genetic tools, signalling chemical and non-chemical control mechanisms, metabolism and discovery methods. The GRDC has invested in a of the gene and protein of a host-specific series of NIWMI projects, to ensure that toxin (ToxA) associated with infection. there is national coordination of research to The Department of Agriculture and Food, reduce the impacts of herbicide resistance, Western Australia (DAFWA) continued work and effective communication of IWM on the validation and web-based delivery solutions to the grains industry. of forecasting tools for crop disease risks, In 2008–09, the GRDC supported activities to: focusing on cereal rusts, viral diseases and • monitor the impact of genetically modified fungal diseases of field peas and canola. glyphosate-resistant canola in cropping Studies by the Queensland Primary systems Industries and Fisheries (QPIF) investigated • further develop the Weed Seed Wizard, a range of aircraft and satellite imagery a decision support tool for management processes that may be used in the of weed seed banks being refined by the detection of foliar and root diseases Adult ladybird beetle (beneficial organism) preying University of Western Australia in pulses. The studies demonstrated that on cabbage aphids in a canola crop. high-resolution satellite imagery can Photo: Dr Andrew Weeks, Cesar Consultants • field test the Harrington Weed Seed accurately identify small areas of Destructor, a non-chemical weed ascochyta-infected chickpeas, and that the mite which may be discrete species, management tool being developed by the infrared imagery can depict areas within only one of which transmits WSMV. This Western Australian Herbicide Resistance a paddock with low vigour. research may help in determining the Initiative – field testing in commercial spread of the virus. harvest conditions indicated weed control Pest management efficacy of greater than 85 percent Biosecurity Integrated pest management (IPM) in Disease management cropping systems aims to reduce the overall The National Grains Industry Biosecurity input cost to growers, reduce the risk of Plan, developed by Plant Health Australia In 2008–09, the GRDC continued to insecticide resistance and reduce the use in partnership with the GRDC, the Grains actively promote a strategy to manage the of prophylactic sprays, providing a range Council of Australia, the state and territory significant impacts of cereal rust, based of commercial and environmental benefits. governments and the Australian on three tactics: sowing varieties with rust The GRDC continues to improve access to Government, was launched in 2008–09. resistance; adopting cultural practices, pest management information for growers This important document provides the such as controlling volunteer hosts during and advisers via the Pestlinks website, framework and summarises the summer; and effective use of fungicides. www.grdc.com.au/pestlinks. responsibilities for managing biosecurity The GRDC’s ongoing investments in the in the grains industry. In 2008–09, the National Invertebrate Pest Australian Cereal Rust Control Program Initiative (NIPI) continued to develop and The GRDC has invested in an international (ACRCP) continue to be important in disseminate information to growers and pre-breeding program to provide Russian mitigating the impact of the number of advisers on the role of IPM on-farm. A series wheat aphid resistance in wheat and barley. new virulent stripe rust pathotypes and of training workshops were held and the This research is intended to pre-empt a managing the potential risk of incursions initiative contributed to the establishment possible incursion of the Russian wheat of exotic pathotypes. of a specialist website on IPM in grains for aphid, which has the potential to cause The efficiency of breeding and the durability the Northern Region – the Beat Sheet. NIPI 70 percent yield loss in cereal crops and is of stem rust resistance in new varieties are also published a special edition of the present on every continent except Australia. also being enhanced, through accurately Australian Journal of Experimental ‘stacking’ multiple resistance genes in a Agriculture providing valuable updates Systems water use efficiency single variety. ACRCP research is also on IPM projects and processes. The GRDC’s Water Use Efficiency Initiative, increasing the understanding of rust established in 2008, has put in place DAFWA researchers have demonstrated the resistance mechanisms, the cloning of investments focused on achieving importance to IPM of weed and volunteer resistance genes, the possibility of building measurable improvements in whole-farm crop control measures, especially where synthetic resistance genes and the water use efficiency (WUE). summer and autumn rains allow for ‘green development of DNA markers. bridge’ carryover of mites. Their research Work completed by the Bureau of Rural The University of Melbourne is examining shows that, monitoring crops for pests and Sciences and DAFWA provided a baseline the genome sequences of sclerotinia and targeting sprays, will decrease the risk of and a framework for evaluating the likely blackleg in canola, to identify candidate insecticide resistance in mites. impacts of increasing WUE for cereals, genes as potential targets for disease in all Australian grain growing regions. The University of Melbourne, through the control. Centre for Environmental Stress and The work showed that enormous yield The Australian Centre for Necrotophic Adaptation Research (CESAR), has been gains are possible if constraints to Fungal Pathogens, based at Murdoch investigating the distribution of wheat curl achieving maximum WUE were removed, University, has made significant progress mite and the prevalence of wheat streak and highlighted the practices required to in identifying genetic resistance to the mosaic virus (WSMV) throughout Australia. achieve healthy crop growth and remove fungal pathogen Stagonospora nodorum, CESAR has identified two lineages of soil constraints.

GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 15 Investment Highlights – Practices Group

those areas of expertise. In 2008–09, the project concentrated on contacting and Case collecting information from professionals Water use efficiency project pinpoints in relevant academic disciplines, Study organisations and communities within returns on rainfall the grains industry.

The GRDC continued its strategic Opportunities to increase production and profit per land unit and partnership with the State Extension annual rainfall unit greatly affect the economic viability of Australian Leaders Network (SELN). SELN is a farms. Growers’ success in improving yield per rainfall unit has been gathering of government extension leaders the result of a combination of four elements: improved cropping from each state and territory of Australia, practices, better varieties, synergies between varieties and agronomy, and strives to provide leadership and and adoption of new technologies. strategic direction in the development of extension service delivery. Working with farming groups and scientists across South Australia, New South Wales, Queensland and WA, a new GRDC-funded project aims to improve water use efficiency both in-crop and on Collaboration with agribusiness farm generally. The GRDC hosted regular meetings of the National Agribusiness Reference Group in At the crop level, there is frequently a large gap between actual and 2008–09, focusing on issues such as: attainable yield per unit of water used. There are many complex interacting reasons for this inefficiency, including management • providing and receiving RD&E information practices and environmental drivers (such as the time of rainfall). and priorities from agribusiness to tailor This project aims to guide growers in better matching management, programs that maximise uptake by variety, soil and climate, to improve the water use efficiency in grower clients Australia’s grain crop, and increase the kilograms of grain produced • delivering information in a form that is per hectare per millimetre of rain (kg/ha/mm). relevant and easy-to-use by agribusiness Since the mid-1800s, varietal improvements have increased yield per and the GRDC unit of water used. In wheat in particular, there has been a steady • continued commercial relevance within rate of improvement of about 0.078 kg/ha/mm per year, from about RD&E investments. 9 kg/ha/mm to the estimated 22 kg/ha/mm yield of today’s varieties. Although this is a major achievement, matching varieties with soil, Access to final reports climate and management remains a challenge, and is being The first phase of a GRDC project to addressed in this project. convert the final reports of research projects to online formats is now complete. Customer relationship pest and disease expertise into the CRM Final reports were converted to a consistent management system database, to assist in managing customer web format for use on the GRDC website relations and provide a tool for analysing in the future. The GRDC’s customer database has been the grains industry’s resource capacity in managed internally within the GRDC for several years, with the primary purpose of distributing information products and services, including the Ground Cover What’s in the 2009–10 RD&E pipeline? newspaper. In 2008–09, the GRDC converted the existing database into a • As part of the RDC initiative – Climate Change Research Strategy for Primary dedicated customer relationship Industries – the GRDC is co-ordinating research on quantifying nitrous oxide management (CRM) system to foster emissions from grain production systems and appropriate methods for targeted information exchange and mitigating these emissions. manage relationships. • The GRDC will continue to facilitate the uptake of precision agriculture tools. Extension networks • Continued focus on Integrated Weed Management (IWM) approaches incorporating chemical and non-chemical control methods. This investment will As part of the continued rollout of the GRDC ensure that there is national coordination of research to reduce the impacts of Extension Strategy and Implementation herbicide resistance and ensure effective communication of IWM solutions. Plan, work commenced on an extension audit to coincide with the implementation • Continued promotion of a three-pronged strategy to manage the significant of the new GRDC CRM system. This impacts of cereal rust that includes the use of varieties with cereal rust project will improve the capture of resistance, adopting cultural tactics such as controlling volunteer hosts during extension professionals’ details, both summer and the strategic use of fungicides. public and private, to ensure that the • Continue to develop our understanding of the impacts different soil types, GRDC can rapidly disseminate new crops, farming systems and enterprises have on water use efficiency. information to industry. • Further collaborative work with growers and agribusiness towards the timely The GRDC also commenced the first dissemination of extension advice in the most appropriate format. phase of a project to integrate weed,

16 GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 Investment Highlights – Varieties Group

Wheat breeding than the most dominant varieties. While in South Australia and Victoria the new milling Varieties Group Wheat breeding programs with the GRDC variety WaagenA recorded yields 3 percent support performed strongly in 2008–09, to 11 percent higher than the dominant Varieties objective releasing a number of new varieties with varieties (see accompanying charts). Growers have access to superior varieties superior traits. The reach and resources of the that enable them to effectively compete in wheat breeding effort were expanded during Dual-purpose wheat global grain markets. the year through a new business relationship In 2008–09, the GRDC continued to support between Australian Grain Technologies and the CSIRO breeding program for dual What the Varieties group does one of the world’s leading seed producers. purpose wheat. This is a small, specialised and how it does it breeding program developing grazing New releases The Varieties group invests in gene wheat varieties for the high-rainfall zone of Fourteen new wheat varieties, including two discovery, breeding technologies, south-eastern Australia. A major hindrance durum wheats, were released in 2008–09. since the beginning of this project has been genetic resources, functional genomics, the continued dry conditions in south-eastern germplasm enhancement, genetic Data from long-term and multi-site trials in Australia, which have limited the ability to National Variety Trials (NVT) indicate that transformation, plant breeding, crop select for yield and disease resistance. variety testing, grain quality research many of these varieties have yields and plant pathology (where directly significantly higher than those of the currently To counter these dry conditions, yield preferred varieties in their target regions. For trials and disease nurseries have been related to breeding). example, in WA the recently released milling established in comparable climates in New Varieties supports crop improvement for varieties BumperA and MaceA were between Zealand. Two lines developed through the growing domestic markets, as well as for 2 percent and 9 percent higher yielding program are currently being commercialised. exports, with the aim of raising the overall value of the Australian grains industry. Yield results for 2008–09 wheat varieties relative to the three most dominant This means developing new varieties varieties in Western Australia, South Australia and Victoria with enhanced yields as well as quality WA—statewide average yield attributes that add value and meet market Yield (Kg/Ha) demands. This includes collaborating 2700 with the grains industry to clarify 2600 consumer requirements. 2500 In summary, Varieties strategies are to: 2400 • build and sustain world-leading 2300 breeding programs 2200 CarnamahA CalingiriA WyalkatchemA BumperA (2008) MaceA (2008) • focus pre-breeding research on Wheat variety key traits • develop a path to market for SA—statewide average yield genetically modified crops Yield (Kg/Ha) 2700 • facilitate faster adoption of superior 2600 varieties. 2500 Funds invested 2400 $43.82m was invested through the 2300 Varieties group in 2008–09. 2200 Frame YitpiA WyalkatchemA BumperA (2008) WaagenA (2008) In addition, there was significant Wheat variety co-investment from research partners. Vic—statewide average yield Yield (Kg/Ha) 3000 2900 2800 2700 2600 2500 Frame WyalkatchemA YitpiA WaagenA (2008) Wheat variety

Note: Yield results are based on statewide NVT. The most dominant varieties are determined by silo delivery volume. A healthy sunflower crop. Photo: Sue Thompson

GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 17 Investment Highlights – Varieties Group

Durum wheat connection to the food supply chain, from The partnership is developing high-yielding, The newly formed National Durum Wheat seed to supermarket, through its investments disease-resistant, milling-quality wheat Improvement Program released two new in the production and commercialisation of varieties for Australia’s high rainfall zones. A A cereal ingredients and bakery products. varieties, Caparoi and Hyperno , in In 2008–09, HRZ Wheats released one A 2008–09. Caparoi was developed to In 2008–09, AGT continued its strong new wheat variety for the high-rainfall zone: meet increasing demand for a durum commitment to improving the productivity GascoigneA. wheat variety with superior quality traits of the Australian grains industry, making adapted to the hostile South Australian available a number of new, improved crop Barley breeding durum-growing regions. CaparoiA is a varieties, including six bread wheat After three years of operation, Barley high-yielding durum with improved varieties and two durum wheat varieties. Breeding Australia (BBA) is looking to the resistance to fungal pathogens; strong future through the recommendations of seedling vigour; excellent lodging and InterGrain an independent review conducted in late shedding resistance; and, excellent colour The Government of Western Australia and 2008. The review made recommendations and quality traits. the GRDC launched the wheat-breeding as to the future structure of Australian company InterGrain in October 2007. The GRDC has supported durum barley breeding. Industry consultation, pre-breeding research at the International In 2008–09, InterGrain released four wheat begun as part of the review process, is Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas varieties: FortuneA, BumperA, ZippyA and continuing with the public release of the (ICARDA) for more than ten years. The EndureA. The diverse characteristics of review’s summary and recommendations research has been focused on pre-emptively these varieties enables growers to have a and the advisory board’s invitation to breeding resistance for potential disease better choice in matching variety selection growers and industry to participate in threats, and improving water use efficiency. to growing conditions and different end further discussion on the future of barley markets. breeding. Australian Grain Technologies The GRDC is the largest shareholder in InterGrain developed a strategic relationship Two new barley varieties were released in A Australian Grain Technologies (AGT), one with Grain Pool to ensure that the three 2008–09. Commander , released by the A of Australia’s leading wheat-breeding premium udon varieties, Binnu , southern node of BBA, is a mid to late A A A companies. During 2008–09, AGT welcomed Yandanooka and Fortune , are rapidly maturity malting barley, while Shepherd , a new shareholder, Vilmorin & Cie, a adopted by the Japanese market and released by the northern node, is an early subsidiary of the French grower-owned deliver premium prices back to WA growers. to mid maturity feed barley. cooperative Groupe Limagrain. Limagrain In 2008, InterGrain expanded its breeding Data from NVT main season trials indicates is a global leader in plant breeding and beyond WA commencing breeding that both varieties are higher yielding than seed production and commercialisation, programs especially for New South Wales, comparable popular varieties in their target operating in more than 30 countries. Victoria and South Australia. regions. For example, from 2005 to 2007 A This partnership will help to ensure AGT Commander consistently recorded yields HRZ Wheats remains at the cutting edge of breeding 2 percent to 17 percent higher than the technology and can capture new market HRZ Wheats is a joint venture between dominant malting varieties in South opportunities for Australian growers. AGT CSIRO, the New Zealand Institute for Australia, Victoria and New South Wales will also benefit from Limagrain’s direct Plant and Food Research and the GRDC. (see chart).

Yield results for the 2008–09 release malting barley variety CommanderA, relative to three dominant malting varieties in South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales Barley—statewide average yields Yield (Kg/Ha) 3500 3400 3300 3200 3100 3000 2900 2800 2700 2600 2500 South Australia Victoria New South Wales State DAFWA pre-breeder Irene Waters, along with other ■ ■ A ■ A ■ A team members is responsible for germplasm Schooner Gairdner Buloke Commander (2008) phenotyping of wheat and barley to determine tolerance to abiotic stresses relating to climate Note: Yield results are based on statewide NVT. The dominant varieties are determined by silo delivery volume. and soil constraints. Photo: Rose Yeoman

18 GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 Investment Highlights – Varieties Group

ICARDA is an important research partner GRDC supported a new project to for the PBA breeding and germplasm assemble a differential set of Australian enhancement programs. Assistance from blackleg isolates that can be used to ICARDA in developing diagnostic tests and identify all known major resistance genes reliable techniques for screening Australian in brassica lines. breeding material against exotic diseases Previous and current GRDC-funded and pathogens has been essential to the projects have shown that rotation of improvement of virus resistance. blackleg resistance sources can increase durability in canola cultivars. However, Canola breeding implementation of this management strategy The blackleg fungus is the major pathogen requires varieties to be categorised into of canola worldwide, and the Australian groups according to their resistance type. canola industry relies on blackleg Presently, the resistance genes in most resistance for its survival. In 2008–09, the Australian cultivars are not known.

CrystalA is a newly released mungbean variety. It is high yielding and has increased resistance to powdery mildew, tan spot and halo blight. Case Photo: Rebecca Thyer Pulse Breeding Australia delivers Study chickpeas with fungus resistance Mungbean breeding In July 2008, a new collaborative mungbean breeding program commenced, The PBA chickpea breeding program has made significant progress involving QPIF, the Australian Mungbean towards securing the Australian chickpea industry against major disease Association (AMA) and the GRDC. threats, and delivering varieties that meet the needs of the market. The program is focused on improving yield, Apart from drought, the major impediment to consistent yield in grain quality and disease resistance, and chickpeas is fungal disease. In particular, ascochyta blight, first accesses genetic material from international recorded in Australia’s commercial crops in 1996, has spread to all sources. The involvement of the AMA chickpea-growing regions. ensures that there is a path to market for A highlight of the PBA program has been the significant improvement new varieties developed by the program. in ascochyta blight resistance breeders have achieved in the ten years Two new mungbean varieties were released since the disease first became a major problem. Genesis 090, released A for the 2008–09 season, under licence to in 2005 in the southern cropping region, and HatTrick , soon to be the AMA: released in the north, are two PBA-developed varieties that will significantly increase growers’ gross margins by vastly reducing or • CrystalA is a large-seeded bright green eliminating the need to use fungicide sprays against ascochyta. mungbean with up to 20 percent higher These new strains also provide increased resistance to phytophthora yield and better grain quality than the root rot, as well as higher yield and better seed quality. industry benchmark of EmeraldA and 4 percent higher yield than White Gold. The photos below illustrate the difference in performance between the standard variety Gully and HatTrickA under high pressure from • Satin IIA is a dull-seeded green ascochyta blight. mungbean released to replace Satin. A It has a 20 percent yield increase over (Left) Trial of Gully (ascochyta blight Satin, as well as superior seed quality disease sensitive) with increased seed size. and (Right) the newly released variety PBA Pulse breeding HatTrickA illustrates the Pulse Breeding Australia (PBA) is a performance of world-class breeding program that delivers both varieties under high improved pulse varieties to Australian ascochyta blight grain growers. The first PBA varieties for disease pressure. Photos: Kevin Moore chickpeas and lentils were released in 2009. The high levels of phytophthora root rot resistance available in some of In 2008–09, PBA used yield data, crop price the chickpea’s wild relatives are being incorporated into PBA’s advanced and a range of specific crop information to breeding lines. Other chickpea breeding advances in 2008–09 centred provide regional gross margin comparisons on the discovery and exploitation of useful traits such as salt tolerance, between selected PBA varieties and current multiple herbicide resistance, resistance to root-lesion nematode and industry varieties for all four PBA pulse reduced botrytis grey mould susceptibility. crops. This information will address specific HatTrickA will enter its final bulk-up phase in 2009, prior to large-scale performance indicators within the PBA release in northern New South Wales and southern Queensland in National Plan and provide growers with 2009–10. information on new varieties.

GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 19 Investment Highlights – Varieties Group

Researchers based at the French National Oat breeding Molecular Plant Breeding Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA) Cooperative Research Centre In 2009, the GRDC-funded National Oat have a differential set of blackleg isolates Breeding Program, based at SARDI, formed The GRDC also has investments in the that can identify ten major resistance a partnership with ABB Grain to develop Molecular Plant Breeding CRC (MPBCRC), genes expressed in seedlings. Because and promote new milling oat varieties. which includes a suite of projects targeted quarantine restrictions prevent Australian The five-year partnership will see ABB at identifying genes inferring tolerance to researchers from importing the isolates, Grain commercialise milling oat varieties, biotic and abiotic stress and quality traits 33 Australian brassica lines were provided while the National Oat Breeding Program in wheat and barley. The MPBCRC has to the French researchers, who used their researches and breeds new varieties. broadened its relationships to include all set of isolates to identify the major of the major wheat and barley breeding resistance genes in those lines. In a related project to develop sources of programs in Australia. rust resistance in oats, six new sources of The aim of this international collaboration is oat stem rust resistance and two new CSIRO to be able to identify blackleg isolates that sources of oat leaf rust resistance have CSIRO conducted a range of pre-breeding can discriminate between resistance genes. been identified. research projects with support from the GRDC This will enable breeders to produce in 2008–09. Results included the provision of cultivars based on specific resistance germplasm incorporating new salt tolerance genes, leading to a robust canola industry Pre-breeding in winter cereals genes and the identification of a synthetic where the threat of blackleg is minimised. With the GRDC support, Australian pre- wheat which may have enhanced tolerance breeding researchers achieved excellence to drought stress at the reproductive stage – Soybean breeding in 2008–09, including a groundbreaking a major cause of reduced grain numbers. In 2008–09, seed increase commenced discovery in the genetics of rust resistance, for the new soybean variety MoonbiA. the launch of a revolutionary software tool Molecular marker development to improve the efficiency of breeding The variety was developed by the Australian During 2008–09 the GRDC restructured its programs, and significant progress in the Soybean Breeding Program, a partnership investments in the development of pursuit of key traits such as higher yield, between CSIRO, the New South Wales molecular markers for wheat and barley disease resistance and drought tolerance. Department of Primary Industries (NSWDPI) breeding. The new Australian Wheat and A and the GRDC. Moonbi will be available Australian Centre for Barley Molecular Marker Program focus is to growers in 2010. Plant Functional Genomics on molecular markers for soil and foliar diseases, and has three components: MoonbiA has a number of significant The Australian Centre for Plant Functional advantages over other varieties, including Genomics (ACPFG) expanded its • technology development improved seed characteristics for soybean collaborative network both in Australia and • improved phenotyping methods processing, good genetic potential for overseas, including new private sector • a single genetic analysis project which high protein levels, improved weathering research partnerships, and continued to is charged with developing the new tolerance and yield, and a 10–12 day perform strongly in its work on drought- molecular markers and delivering both earlier finish. and salinity-related traits in 2008–09. traits and markers to breeding clients.

Dr Jason Able from the Adelaide node of the CRC for Molecular Plant Breeding and his team identified a gene that controls how chromosomes pair and exchange DNA during sexual reproduction. Scientists will now be able to selectively reintroduce beneficial ‘wild ancestor’ genes into modern varieties. Photo: Brad Collis

20 GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 Investment Highlights – Varieties Group

A highlight from the wheat and barley Statistics Program and delivered to grain molecular marker program was the growers through the NVT website demonstration that the absence of a single (www.nvtonline.com.au) and state gene in wheat, Tsn1, strongly reduces the agriculture department sowing guides. severity of symptoms of fungal disease In response to the lifting of the moratoria caused by Septoria nodorum and yellow on genetically modified (GM) canola in spot infection. The Tsn1 protein serves as Victoria and New South Wales in early 2008, a receptor for a fungal protein, ToxA, which the 2008 NVT program incorporated five can be produced outside the fungus and dedicated GM canola trials. Roundup used in a simple diagnostic test to select Ready® (GM) canola cultivars were trialled for less susceptible breeding lines. alongside imidazolinone-tolerant and Australian Cereal Rust Control Program triazine-tolerant cultivars in an experiment designed to allow comparisons between The Australian Cereal Rust Control Program the different chemistry types. As a result (ACRCP) is a partnership between the of the dry season and spring frosts, only University of Sydney, CSIRO, CIMMYT and the Horsham and Forbes trials were The commitment of growers such as Brent Alexander the University of Adelaide. The ACRCP is of Lockhart, NSW, to the improvement of varieties is successful. internationally recognised for its ability to crucial to the success of the NVT. Photo: Kellie Penfold discover and use novel sources of rust Results of these trials revealed that there resistance from wild relatives of wheat. was no significant difference between the Pathway to market for genetically best yielding varieties from each herbicide During 2008–09 the ACRCP continued to modified canola tolerance group. provide diagnostic screening services to A total of 108 farmers in Victoria and New Australian breeders of wheat, barley, In 2009, the canola trial component of the South Wales were accredited in 2008–09 triticale and oats. The ACRCP also formally NVT program was expanded to incorporate to grow Australia’s first commercial crop of became a partner in the Borlaug Global 15 dedicated GM trials. herbicide-resistant GM canola. Grain was Rust Initiative during the year. This means delivered to five dedicated sites and sold The NVT program was formally reviewed in that the Australian research effort is now to domestic processors. 2008, with the objectives of identifying fully integrated with the international fight inherent strengths and weaknesses in the In WA the government allowed limited GM to control the spread of the Ug99 stem program and developing a roadmap for the canola plantings to commence with the rust pathogen. future structure and function of the program. 2009 planting season. In 2009, a highlight of the ACRCP’s work was the publication of a paper in Science by CSIRO researchers and their collaborators at the University of Zurich What’s in the 2009–10 RD&E pipeline? (Switzerland), who identified the gene and • Release of the first new pulse varieties from Pulse Breeding Australia (PBA). predicted protein product of Lr34/Yr18. These include two new desi chickpeas, two lentils and one broad bean. This scientific breakthrough provides Both chickpea varieties are highly resistant to ascochyta blight, having valuable insight into the mechanics of significantly better resistance than other varieties. The lentil varieties yield durable rust resistance. The identification between 5 to 15 percent higher than Nugget and the new broad bean has much of this gene also provides perfect improved seed quality characteristics. It will replace Aquadulce in high rainfall molecular markers for use in breeding. districts of southern Victoria and the lower south-east of South Australia.

• The release of a new durum variety with improved resistance to fungal National Variety Trials pathogens, excellent lodging resistance and quality traits.

The GRDC-funded NVT provides grain • The release of two new mungbean varieties – both yielding about 20 percent growers and agricultural advisers with above the current industry benchmark varieties. access to robust independent results on • Development of new resistance to stem and leaf rust in oats. the performance of recently released crop varieties from trials conducted across • Development of molecular markers for use in field pea, lentil, faba bean and Australia. This information is available from chickpea. The aim is to deliver gene-based markers for multiple priority traits the NVT Online database to help growers which can then be implemented by breeders for marker assisted selection. make crop variety selection decisions. • Brassica napus and B.juncea germplasm from China and India will be introduced to enhance the productivity of canola quality. All Australian winter cereal, pulse and canola breeders participated in NVT in the • Development of dual-purpose wheat for high rainfall zones of south-eastern 2008 season. Of the 587 trials planted, Australia. 65 were abandoned due to unfavourable • The development of herbicide tolerant narrow-leaf lupins. seasonal conditions; the results of a further 76 did not meet NVT’s data quality • International collaboration to identify blackleg disease isolates in canola. requirements and were consequently not This will enable breeders to produce cultivars based on specific resistance published. Results of the remaining 446 genes to minimise the threat of blackleg. trials were analysed by the National

GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 21 Investment Highlights – New Products Group

The New Products output group comprises Coeliac-friendly barley for beer New Products Group New Grain Products and New Farm People with coeliac disease, who comprise Products and Services. The two investment one percent of the Australian population, New Products objective areas target opportunities both pre- and experience negative health reactions to as post-farm gate, by investing in research, Deliver new products and services little as 10 milligrams of gluten protein per development and commercialisation. day. A larger proportion of Australians (both on farm and off farm) that will This provides growers with additional assist growers to effectively compete suffer from gluten intolerance, which has options in farm management and symptoms similar to those of coeliac in global grain markets. marketing. disease but is not well defined. What the New Products group New grain food products The GRDC and CSIRO are working to develop a barley suitable for brewing does and how it does it The new grain food products portfolio ‘ultra low gluten’ beer for gluten-intolerant The New Products group targets focuses on identifying output traits that may consumers. opportunities both pre-farm gate and increase the value or the attractiveness to post-farm gate, by investing in R&D customers of Australian grain. Go Grains and commercialisation of new grain High-amylose wheat The GRDC continued to support Go Grains and farm products and services which Health & Nutrition Ltd (Go Grains) in High-amylose wheat produces a high level provide growers with additional options its delivery of consumer information, of resistant starch, which is important in in production inputs and end uses. educational resources and media bowel health and has a lower glycaemic campaigns to promote the nutritional and New Products actively identifies national index than other starches, with benefits health benefits of grains and pulses. and international technology relevant to for losing weight and stabilising blood the Australian grains industry; builds sugar levels. The GRDC’s Arista Cereal Feed grain Technologies Pty Ltd joint venture (Arista) partnerships to develop products and In 2008–09, the GRDC and members of is pursuing both GM and non-GM services and deliver them to growers; the Australian Feedgrain Partnership solutions to market demand for these contracted a project to transfer exciting undertakes product development to meet attributes. market requirements; and develops new yield potential technology to sorghum robust business cases that demonstrate Omega-3 canola to help increase the supply of sorghum the market demand for and value of any The GRDC has partnered with the CSIRO for livestock industries. product or service that the GRDC and Food Futures Flagship to develop canola The yield potential technology, developed its partners propose to invest in. plants that produce docosahexaenoic in a GRDC-funded project with the CSIRO acid (DHA), a healthy omega-3 oil Food Futures Flagship, may also help to Funds invested component. DHA is vital for human health increase the digestibility of sorghum starch and is normally available only from fish $10.28m was invested through New for livestock. sources. The project also entered into an Products in 2008–09. agreement with a potential international The GRDC also continued to support the Pork CRC in implementing and using In addition, there was significant partner for joint evaluation of early-stage near-infrared (NIR) calibrations developed co-investment from research partners. material to expedite development of the technology. by the Premium Grains for Livestock Program. The Pork CRC has launched AusScan, a business arm of the Pork CRC, to commercialise the NIR calibrations.

New industrial uses for grains The new industrial uses portfolio seeks to identify opportunities for the use of Australian grains in developing bio-based industries. Biofuels The GRDC has continued to focus on determining a path forward for technologies that use grain and grain residues as feedstock for ethanol production. A scoping study identified opportunities for improved energy efficiency on farm, regional biodiesel self-sufficiency, and use of crop stubble for bioenergy production. The GRDC has engaged CSIRO to further explore opportunities for the use of crop stubbles as feedstock for biofuel and The development of NIR calibrations could help growers match grain with specific feed markets. Photo: GRDC bioenergy production.

22 GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 Investment Highlights – New Products Group

Crop Biofactories Initiative The Crop Biofactories Initiative (CBI) is a Case three-stage partnership between the GRDC Harrington Weed Seed Destructor and CSIRO that aims to engineer oilseeds Study with fatty acid compositions that match sorts the weeds from the chaff specific industrial applications and then help to launch production and processing value chains within Australian agribusiness. Ray Harrington, a grain grower from Kojonup, WA firmly believes that This is a significant strategic step that destroying the seed contained in harvester chaff is a viable way of builds on Australia’s increasing acceptance reducing weed populations. However, close to a decade ago, Ray of GM oilseed production. CBI has chosen decided there was no future in collecting the chaff and carrying it off safflower as its platform crop for industrial the field or burning it. oil production in Australia. As a result, Ray began designing and building the first prototype of the ‘Harrington Weed Seed Destructor’. This harvester trail-behind unit Nanoparticles completely destroys any seeds contained in the chaff and re-spreads The GRDC is supporting University of it over the field, eliminating the need to stop and empty chaff carts. Sydney researchers in determining the Over the years Ray’s first design was modified many times. By 2008, feasibility of creating crops capable of it was effective but still needed refinement to become a commercial producing precious-metal nanoparticles that piece of equipment. Significant trial work was also needed to prove are highly valued for biomedicine, optics the importance of chaff in the weed cycle. and electronics applications. Preliminary results indicate that common crop plants In February 2008, the GRDC became involved, entering into a joint are capable of accumulating elemental gold. project with Ray to take the technology to market. In 2008–09, an engineer was contracted to design and build a new New farm products and services prototype using the latest modelling and fabrication technologies. The new farm products and services The Western Australian Herbicide Resistance Initiative began field portfolio seeks to identify technology and testing the efficacy of the prototype, both by directly capturing the intellectual property that can be developed processed chaff and by measuring weed recruitment after use of and brought to market to assist the the technology. productivity of Australian grain growers. The field trial results so far have been very encouraging, demonstrating little residual viable weed seed after treatment by the destructor. Novel pesticides Modifications to what is expected to be the commercial model are The GRDC invests in projects focused on underway in preparation for a second year of trials. Success in these developing novel chemicals and/or pesticide trials would be the perfect platform for the launch of the Harrington products that are effective against key Weed Seed Destructor in 2011. Australian insect pests, weeds and diseases. The GRDC’s role in the project has focused on providing project Three new areas for investment are: management, resources and scientific rigour, to ensure that a promising • potential new insecticides based on technology is brought to market quickly and with scientific backing. short-chain peptides from spider toxins • the role biopolymers could have in control of foliar disease in cereals • a novel rodenticide. Instrumentation Informed by the ongoing success of a project demonstrating microspectrometer technology, the GRDC contracted an independent group to examine the market potential of a new MEMS IR (micro electrical mechanical infrared) technology for measuring soil and grain characteristics, and to determine the most viable path to market. Cereal endophyte program The GRDC has invested in a program with Grasslanz Technology Ltd (a commercial venture of a New Zealand Crown Research Institute, AgResearch) to identify and develop cereal endophytes that may have a role in controlling heat and water stress and insect Dr Greg Tanner who heads up the CSIRO Plant Industry Coeliac Friendly Cereals project is developing an damage in cereals. authentic-tasting, gluten-free barley-based beer. Photo: Brad Collis

GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 23 Investment Highlights – New Products Group

Soil biology The Novozymes Biologicals Australia Pty Ltd joint venture completed another season of field evaluations of a range of growth promotion and disease control microbes sourced from both Australian and North American research programs. Delivery of these new microbes is subject to approval from Australian regulatory authorities.

The new product TagTeam, which is a Rhizobium inoculant including phosphorous- solubilising microbes sourced from the GRDC-supported research, was launched in Australia in early 2009. The response from the industry to this new technology is very encouraging for the future of beneficial microbes in agriculture.

Export opportunities The GRDC’s export opportunities strategy has focused on developing technologies or knowledge that provide or define a unique selling advantage for Australian grain in key export markets and, in particular, A delegation of Japanese flour millers visited Australia seeking reassurance that wheat quality will remain a top new projects that have the potential to priority in a deregulated market. Dr. Kazui Kondo, President of Nitto Fuji Flour Milling (centre front) led the increase Australia’s market share in the delegation. Photo: DAFF Asian markets. A new project has been contracted to take through the supply chain (and across years). In 2008–09, a visit to millers and noodle advantage of this opportunity. However, due to the sensitivity of end-users makers in China revealed an excellent to the functionality of the grain and the opportunity to work with Asian researchers Variety identification guarantees of purity offered by exporters, and millers to assess Australian wheat Malting barley is not unique in terms of the the issue has greater relevance in relation for blending into premium noodle flours. difficulty in maintaining purity of varieties to malting barley than to other cereals.

Technologies are emerging that have the potential to identify varieties from grain or What’s in the 2009–10 RD&E pipeline? tissue samples. Preliminary testing with such technologies has highlighted some • Progression to the second stage of investment in the Crop Biofactories opportunities to improve the quality of Initiative to engineer oilseeds with fatty acid compositions that match Australian malting barley and to maintain and specific industrial applications. CBI is refining the ‘best bets’ and has chosen improve the reputation of Australian grain. safflower as its platform crop for industrial oil production in Australia and In 2008, the GRDC investigated aspects has acquired the necessary expertise to implement an efficient safflower of the issue, including an assessment of transformation pipeline. the accuracy and discriminatory abilities • A registration package including toxicology and efficacy data for the new of new technologies. A strategic plan for grain storage fumigant GLO2 will be produced with our research partner barley variety identification has been CSIRO Entomology. This package will ensure a commercial partner has the written in collaboration with representatives ability to take GLO2 into the Australian market. of the malting barley industry and is now • A new soil test for phosphorous – called DGT – is being licensed to being implemented. researchers around Australia to provide additional calibration information The eventual result will be a prior to a commercial partnership and wider release. This test is likely to whole-of-industry set of ground rules and substantially change the way farmers view their soil nutrient reserves as it an implementation plan to enable all directly calculates the plant available phosphorous rather than simply the sectors to determine variety identity and total amount present. purity, and to correct shortcomings. • Two new potential foliar fungal products from overseas are being evaluated in Australia against our conditions and pathogens. Both are new actives and This may be a world first for this type of look to have potential against a range of diseases such as rust and mildew. total quality assurance approach, and should lead to a higher level of confidence • We will enter the second phase of the barley variety identification research. in Australian malting barley. It will also have This phase will focus on technology development for rapid and accurate implications for the wider cereal industry, testing of barley varieties for growers and the industry. as a similar approach could be extended to wheat and other open-pollinated species.

24 GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 Investment Highlights – Communication & Capacity Building Group

Communication • Summer weeds—Key messages communicated to growers were to Communication & Communication plays a crucial part in maintain summer weed control in order the adoption cycle of new technologies Capacity Building to conserve soil moisture and to manage and practices. Media coverage is a the weed seed bank to ensure that cost-effective and credible method of Group summer weeds are not more of a communicating key messages to target problem in the future. Communication & Capacity audiences. Building objective • Pests—Several pest issues emerged in the The crop production cycle provides a spring of 2008 and beyond, which required Increase the awareness and capacity to framework for media activities to ensure the development and distribution of a optimise the adoption of grains research information is delivered when it can be of range of communication material to remind outputs. most benefit to growers. growers of the need to closely monitor The GRDC contracts with professional crops and to consider their control options. What the Communication & communicators in each of the three GRDC In particular, aphids, armyworm, mites Capacity Building group does regions – Northern, Southern and Western. and weevils were a cause for concern. and how it does it Each of the regional communicators writes Western Region Through a range of communication and distributes weekly media press • Glyphosate and trifluralin use—With activities, this group positions the GRDC releases, Crop Doctor columns (timely glyphosate and trifluralin resistance in and its research partners as a credible agronomic information to growers) and ryegrass and wild radish in Western source of technical and industry-specific Grain Flashes (news briefs or snippets), Australia increasing, a key message information. The group also supports as well as providing articles to a plethora communicated to growers recommended initiatives to encourage and develop of agricultural magazines and newspapers. the adoption of integrated weed capacity in education, training and Outlined below is a snapshot of additional management strategies to retain the technology transfer for researchers regional communication carried out in effectiveness of non-selective herbicides. and for the grains industry. each of the GRDC’s three regions: • Summer weed control—One of a number of key messages to growers was that In consultation with the other GRDC Northern Region groups, Communication & Capacity through controlling summer weeds soil The bi-monthly, three-part Australian moisture is retained in the paddock for Building also identifies opportunities for Grain’s Consultants’ Corner series future crops and offers growers the new publications and products that showcases GRDC research, with in-depth benefit of higher crop yields. meet grains industry needs. analysis from researchers and testing of • Use of phosphine in grain storage— information by regional agronomists. In But these needs and preferred delivery Western Australian growers, unlike some 2008-09, this detailed series of regular mechanisms vary. Accordingly, this of their eastern state counterparts, are still articles covered key issues such as: group packages and delivers timely and able to use phosphine to fumigate their targeted information to satisfy the • Cereal rust—Adopting strategies to grain. Where phosphine resistance has different demands. combat cereal rust including controlling been detected it is only minor. The key the green bridge, selecting rust-resistant message to growers was to ensure that And recognising the role that research varieties and using fungicide control they use the correct dose rate in fully partners, government agencies and where necessary. sealed and tested silos. industry bodies play in influencing • Inter-row planting—Northern Grower on-farm decision making, Communication Alliance and New South Wales Publications & Capacity Building also collaborates Department of Primary Industries During 2008–09 the GRDC published 11 with these entities in a range of joint recommendations on practicing inter-row fact sheets; most were distributed nationally communication and delivery activities. planting to reduce the risk of cereal rust. through the Ground Cover newspaper. • Herbicide resistance and fleabane Additional copies were printed to meet Funds invested control—Queensland Primary Industries bulk requests for copies from grower $6.72m was invested through and Fisheries (QPIF) research results groups, agribusiness, agricultural colleges Communication & Capacity Building in on herbicide resistance and fleabane and agronomists. control. 2008–09. Two fact sheets in particular were very In addition, there was significant Southern Region timely and addressed specific issues which co-investment from research partners. • Stripe rust—Due to a number of stripe were of concern to growers in the GRDC rust outbreaks in August 2008, a Northern Region: concerted communication effort by the • Chickpea Disease—In September 2008, GRDC advised growers to prepare for the first disease incursion of ascochyta a potential explosion of the disease. blight was detected in chickpeas in central Key messages to growers included the Queensland. Within one week of the need to regularly monitor their crops for notification of the disease, the GRDC, in signs of stripe rust and to be prepared partnership with the QDPIF, distributed this to make decisions regarding fungicide fact sheet to growers with information on applications. how to control and manage the disease.

GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 25 Investment Highlights – Communication & Capacity Building Group

• Northern Weeds—This fact sheet provided in pursuing a career in a science- or GRDC. The awards reward students who information, including agronomy and engineering-related field. have undertaken practical research IWM strategies, for summer grass and for projects which demonstrate innovative In January 2009, the forum introduced 288 four weeds that have become resistant approaches and thorough scientific students from all over Australia to to herbicides: wild oat, annual ryegrass, procedures. The awards also recognise researchers, encouraged them to achieve barnyard grass and liverseed grass. teachers for their support of open-ended excellence in all their undertakings, and Its timely distribution in January 2009 student investigations in science helped them to develop their communication gave growers time to put IWM options into education. and interpersonal skills. practice before the winter sowing season. The GRDC Prize for Sustainable Agriculture Other fact sheets published in this reporting BHP Billiton Science Awards in 2008–09 was presented to Hannah period related to spray drift, NVT, herbicide The prestigious BHP Billiton Science Awards Younger and Luke Fletcher, Year 10 resistance, frost, crown rot and nematodes. are supported by a partnership between students from Marist Regional College in BHP Billiton, the Australian Science Burnie, Tasmania, for their project entitled In cases of particular interest to a wide range Teachers’ Association, CSIRO and the ‘Bloomin’ Algae’. of grains industry participants, the GRDC takes information from project final reports and presents it in an easy-to-read research report format. These reports are available Case free to anyone in the grains industry. Study Research scholar takes a close look Building industry capacity at lucerne flea Through awards, scholarships, training and development and outreach programs, the GRDC supports efforts to build capacity across the grains industry. In 2008–09, these efforts included awareness-raising programs for high school students, research grants for scientists and growers, and professional development opportunities for future industry leaders. GRDC awards In 2008–09 the GRDC offered six categories Grains Industry of training awards, as well as travel and Research Scholar conference support. John Roberts. Photo: Robin Taylor This included support for: Better ways to control the damaging lucerne flea, which attacks pasture, • 27 conferences, 32 travel awards and cereal and legume crops, is one expected outcome of John Roberts’s ten industry development awards PhD project at the University of Melbourne. With support from a GRDC • 52 training scholarships, including 11 Grains Industry Research Scholarship, John is investigating the biology of Agricultural Training Awards, 12 the lucerne flea and the possibility of using a predatory mite to control it. Undergraduate Honours Scholarships After completing a science degree with majors in genetics and zoology, and 19 Grains Industry Research John sought a PhD project that combined the two disciplines. This led Scholarships. him to the Centre for Environmental Stress and Adaptation Research at Secondary schools programs the University of Melbourne, and the project on lucerne fleas. The secondary schools program is part of a John’s work has revealed some important differences between the long-term effort to address the current and effects of chemical control in red-legged earth mite (RLEM) and lucerne predicted skills shortages in many primary flea. “Lucerne fleas have a much greater tolerance to pesticides than industries, particularly the grains industry. RLEM,” John says “so where both pests are present, pesticide control The program is an industry–university–school of RLEM is unlikely to control lucerne flea and could in fact result in a partnership designed to stimulate student secondary pest flare.” interest in studying science at university, A comparison of organophosphates and synthetic pyrethroids showed with a pathway into primary industries. that only organophosphate pesticides were effective against lucerne flea. Also, laboratory pesticide trials have shown that synthetic pyrethroids National Youth Science Forum are harmful to an important beneficial predator, the snout mite, while The GRDC encouraged students to organophosphates appear less toxic. consider careers in agricultural science through the National Youth Science Forum, John hopes to investigate the snout mite’s predatory ability, noting that in the past the mite has controlled lucerne flea in some areas. He also a two-week intensive program held at the hopes to investigate the use of more selective chemicals which might Australian National University. Participants control lucerne fleas without harming the snout mite and other are invited following a rigorous selection beneficial species. process and must demonstrate an interest

26 GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 Investment Highlights – Communication & Capacity Building Group

Her research included a visit to the US affecting the Australian industry and the need to see the latest research into foliar to adopt new technology and management phosphorus fertilisers. practices to continue to maintain productivity growth and competitiveness. Nuffield scholars The GRDC continues to support the skill The 2008–09 GRDC scholars are: and leadership development of people • Stuart Barden from Gilgandra, New South working in the grains industry through its Wales, who is studying grain growing in sponsorship of Australia’s premier farming marginal and low-rainfall areas, with the scholarship awards, the Nuffield Australia aim of producing better, more consistent Farming scholarships. yields, as well as improving water use These scholarships give Australians the efficiency through micro water harvesting. opportunity to travel overseas to study an • James Hassall, also from Gilgandra, agricultural/farming related research topic who is examining the role of precision GRDC award winners at the 2009 BHP Billiton Science of their own choice. agriculture (PA) in the future of farming Awards Luke Fletcher (left) and Hannah Younger with and the new technologies being the GRDC’s managing director Peter Reading. It is expected that scholars will be able to Photo: CSIRO developed to enhance PA. actively communicate the knowledge and Science and Innovation Awards for understanding they gain. This will • Leon Ryan from York, WA who is studying Young People in Agriculture significantly boost their farming sector’s factors driving demand for grains and understanding of the international forces potential product substitutions. The GRDC continued its sponsorship of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Awards for Young People in Agriculture. Applicants are required to submit an innovative project proposal that addresses a significant issue in Australia’s rural industries and could be completed within 12 months.

In 2008–09, the GRDC-sponsored award was presented to Therese McBeath, a research associate at the University of

Adelaide, who wants to identify fertilisers Stuart Barden James Hassall Leon Ryan that deliver phosphorus more efficiently. Photo: Nuffield Australia Photo: Nuffield Australia Photo: Nuffield Australia

Australian Rural Leadership Program What’s in the 2009–10 RD&E pipeline? The GRDC sponsored two participants in the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation’s Australian Rural Leadership • To provide the industry with professional development opportunities aimed at Program in 2008–09. The program is an increasing the on-farm adoption of new technologies. For example, in 2009–10 opportunity for selected rural and regional a series of national workshops will be held on issues such as grain storage, leaders to undertake a program of integrated pest management, spray drift and precision agriculture technology. personal growth and develop the skills, • The implementation of issues-based communication campaigns to more knowledge and networks needed to be effectively deliver the GRDC’s research outcomes. effective in regional, state, national and • The production of three regionally-targeted Driving Agronomy audio CDs international arenas. which feature RD&E news and agronomic information relevant to southern, The GRDC-sponsored participants in western and northern growers. 2008–09 were: • Release and distribution of 20 Fact sheets covering various issues identified • Donna Lynch, a primary producer from by regional panel members and growers. south-central WA. Donna is also a • Release of Faba Bean: The Ute Guide and Vetch: The Ute Guide providing member of various industry groups relevant agronomic and management information for these crops. including Cooperative Bulk Handling, Growers Advisory Council and Western • Production of a booklet on ‘communication’ – a sister publication to the Australian Meat Marketing Co-operative popular A Guide to Succession: Sustaining families and farms. It is estimated Limited. that farming businesses that do communicate at a high level can increase their profitability by 30 percent. • Caroline Rhodes, the senior manager at Wheat Exports Australia responsible for • Release of crop growth-stage backpocket guides for 20 individual crops the administration of the Wheat Export including cereals, coarse grains, pulses and oilseeds. This is a collaborative Accreditation Scheme. Caroline has project with NuFarm and Australian Grain to help ensure the correct timing extensive experience in international of herbicide, fungicide and fertiliser application. trade, marketing, R&D and quarantine policy.

GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 27 Commercialisation

more focused governance; ease of The GRDC’s primary aim is to make Business relationships interaction with the private sector; and, In some cases, the most effective way for new technology available to grain in the case of Cooperative Research the GRDC to encourage adoption of growers as quickly and as cost-effectively Centres, government policy. as possible. innovation in the grains industry is to establish a company or unincorporated The following table describes the companies In some cases, the benefits of the GRDC joint venture. This provides more effective in which the GRDC had shares or research investments can be most management of intellectual property; membership during 2008–09. efficiently delivered to our growers through the commercial production Companies in which the GRDC is involved in 2008–09 of research outputs. Companies limited by guarantee Commercialisation is a means of both Name Activity GRDC role delivering and securing technology to Agrifood Awareness Ltd Provides information about gene Is a member of the company and enable Australian grain growers to technology to enable informed debate provides research funding effectively compete in global grain Nominates a director markets. Australian Crop Provides cereal variety details online Is a member of the company and Accreditation System for farmers and advisers, manages provides a research contract The GRDC achieves its objective in Limited the National Variety Trials Nominates a director commercialising research outputs Australian Seed Federation Promotes interests of seed industry A GRDC employee is a member of through: Limited members the company, for GRDC • ensuring commercialisation activities CRC National Plant Serves as the management company Is a member of the company and are relevant to the GRDC’s core Biosecurity Ltd for the Cooperative Research Centre provides a research contract (CRC) for National Plant Biosecurity strategies Grain Foods CRC Ltd Develops innovative grain products Is a member of the company and • leveraging capital and expertise from provides a research contract co-investors, to maximise opportunities Nominates a director to bring technology to the marketplace Go Grains Health & Identifies and communicates the Is a member of the company and and give grain growers access to Nutrition Ltd health benefits of grain food products provides research funding Nominates a director technology Pulse Australia Ltd Provides leadership for the development Is a member of the company • developing comprehensive business of the pulse industry in Australia Nominates a director plans for delivering satisfactory returns Single Vision Grains Inactive Is the only member to grain growers and investors. Australia Limited Appoints the directors Value Added Wheat Serves as the management company Is a member of the company As part of the overall commercialisation CRC Ltd for the Value Added Wheat CRC Nominates a director strategy, the GRDC recognises that, after the proof-of-concept stage, a sustainable Companies limited by shares market size, expertise, funds, and Name Activity GRDC role distribution channels are needed. Arista Cereal Technologies Undertakes development of Is a 17 percent shareholder. Pty Ltd high-amylose wheat Nominates one director Investments in joint ventures and companies will be based on the merits Australian Centre for Plant Conducts functional genomics Is a 19.7 percent shareholder in the Functional Genomics research into abiotic stress company, in return for providing of business cases that demonstrate Pty Ltd funding of $10 million over five years these attributes. Australian Grain Undertakes commercial wheat Is a 36.7 percent shareholder and Technologies Pty Ltd breeding and provides research contracts Nominates three of the seven Commercialisation outcomes directors Every commercialisation task is unique, Australian Weed Served as the management company Has a beneficial interest in one and the process of bringing products and Management Pty Ltd for the CRC for Australian Weed share of the company Management, now manages technology to market must be undertaken on commercialisation of CRC intellectual a project-by-project basis. A cross-section property of commercialisation work undertaken by Canola Breeders Western Develops high-performing commercial Is a 31.4 percent shareholder. the GRDC in 2008–09 has been outlined Australia Pty Ltd canola varieties focused on Western Nominates one director within the previous group and regional Australian low-rainfall areas with some summaries of this Growers’ Report. adaptation to other regions of Australia HRZ Wheats Pty Ltd Develops high-yielding milling wheat Is a 43.4 percent shareholder They include: varieties for Australia's high-rainfall zone Nominates one director • New crop varieties InterGrain Pty Ltd Undertakes commercial wheat breeding Is a 33 percent shareholder • High-amylose wheat Nominates one director • Coeliac-friendly barley for beer Novozymes Biologicals Develops and markets inoculant Is a 50 percent shareholder and (Australia) Pty Ltd products to benefit growers provides research contracts • Soil biology (formerly Philom Bios Nominates two of the four directors • Harrington Weed Seed Destructor. (Australia) Pty Ltd)

28 GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 The GRDC team

The National Panel Comprises the three regional panel chairs, the GRDC’s Managing Director and the GRDC’s executive managers. The Regional Panels

Regional panel membership as at 30 September 2009

Northern Regional Panel Southern Regional Panel Western Regional Panel

Chair Chair Chair James Clark David Shannon Neil Young ANAMBAH, NSW KAPUNDA, SA KOJONUP, WA Phone: 0427 545 212 Phone: 0419 830 700 Phone: 0428 918 766 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

Deputy Chair Deputy Chair Deputy Chair John Sheppard Mark Peoples Richard Oliver TOOWOOMBA, QLD CANBERRA, ACT MURDOCH, WA Phone: 07 4639 8840 Phone: 02 6246 5447 Phone: 0414 305 999 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

Members Members Members David Freebairn Andrew Barr Leecia Angus FORTITUDE VALLEY, QLD PINERY via OWEN, SA GRDC Phone: 0408 876 907 Phone: 08 8527 7085 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Ralph Burnett Richard Heath Chris Blanchard ALBANY, WA MILROY, NSW WAGGA WAGGA, NSW Phone: 0427 200 673 Phone: 0427 447 872 Phone: 02 6933 2364 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Anna Butcher Penny Heuston Geoff Budd BROOKTON, WA WARREN, NSW GRDC Phone: 0428 472 037 Phone: 0428 474 845 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] John Crosbie Merrie Carlshausen Vince Logan SUNBURY, VIC WUBIN, WA GRDC Phone: 03 9744 7753 Phone: 0428 883 555 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Jodi McLean Merna Curnow David Fienberg GEORGETOWN, NSW LAANECOORIE, VIC BICTON, WA Phone: 0427 926 301 Phone: 03 5435 7272 Phone: 0427 427 226 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Aaron Sanderson Richard Konzag Tracey Gianatti AYR, QLD MALLALA, SA WEMBLEY DOWNS, WA Phone: 0428 186 497 Phone: 08 8527 2077 Phone: 0427 344 722 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Rob Taylor Allan Mayfield John Harvey MACALISTER, QLD CLARE, SA GRDC Phone: 0427 622 203 Phone: 08 8842 3230 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Fran Hoyle Gavin Whiteley Andrew Rice WARNBRO, WA GRDC PARKES, NSW Phone: 0419 260 590 Email: [email protected] Phone: 02 6866 1288 Email: [email protected] Bill Yates Email: [email protected] Peter Roberts GARAH, NSW Peter Schwarz RAVENSTHORPE, WA Phone: 02 6754 3389 NARINGANINGALOOK, VIC Phone: 0428 389 060 Email: [email protected] Phone: 03 5865 8200 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Panel Support Officer Panel Support Officer Ben Maroney Stephen Thomas Amy Fay GRDC GRDC GRDC Phone: 02 6166 4500 Email: [email protected] Phone: 02 6166 4500 Panel Support Officer Carolyn Pearson GRDC Phone: 02 6166 4500

GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 29 The GRDC team

Program teams Staff Each of the GRDC’s three program teams As at 30 September 2009, the GRDC had 49 full-time staff members including the comprises program managers, panel Managing Director. members from each of the three regions, an executive manager and a panel chair. Staff as at 30 September 2009 Depending on the size and complexity of the portfolio, each program team forms Position Occupant several subprograms. Managing Director’s Managing Director Peter Reading Each program team is responsible for area Manager Communications Kylie Paulsen developing, implementing and reviewing the Executive Assistant Wynette Neil investment strategy within its output group. Corporate Services Executive Manager Gavin Whiteley Other activities include evaluating projects, Manager Finance Danielle White prioritising potential investment opportunities Accountant—Reporting Nino Divito and monitoring project performance. Contract Payments Officer Carmen Jiang Accounts Payable Officer Johan Pienaar Program teams as at 30 June 2009 Manager Human Resources Wendy Neil Program team Subprogram team Records Management Coordinator Ross Thompson Travel Coordinator Sarah Smith Practices • Agronomy soils and Receptionist Ros Walton environment Administrative Assistant Helen Moffat a • Crop protection Manager IT Facilities Tavis Hamer • Validation and integration Network Administrator Bhargav Prajapati • Extension and grower Network Support Officer Brendan Lawler programs Legal & Procurement Executive Manager Geoff Budd Varieties • Pre-breeding Corporate Lawyer James Macintyre • Breeding Compliance Officer Catherine Wells Manager Procurement and Contracting Cathy Stewart New Products • New grain products Contracts Coordinator Klaudia Skazlic • New farm products and services Corporate Strategy & Executive Manager Leecia Angus Impact Assessment Impact and Business Analyst Vincent Fernandes Corporate Strategist Evaluation and Reporting Zoltan Lukacs Panel Support Officer-National/Internal Business Processes Noelia Freitas Panel Support Officer-West/Portfolio Balance Amy Fay Panel Support Officer-South/Panel Engagement Processes Carolyn Pearson Panel Support Officer-North/Administrative Coordinator Ben Maroney

Practices Executive Manager Stephen Thomas Administrative Coordinator Peta Gallagher Project Manager Practices Zoe Wake Manager Agronomy Soils and Environment Martin Blumenthal Project Manager Climate Change Sara Hely Project Manager Practices Tanya Robinson Manager Crop Protection Rohan Rainbow Manager Validation and Adoption Stuart Kearns Manager Extension and Grower Programs Tom McCue Webmaster Sam Livingstone Manager Publications Maureen Cribb

Varieties Executive Manager John Harvey Coordinator Varieties and Capacity Building Merrilyn Baulman Administrative Coordinator Vacant Administrative Coordinator Wendy Bosci Manager Gene Discovery Juan Juttner Manager Germplasm Enhancement Jorge Mayer Project Manager Plant Breeding Vacant Project Manager Pre-Breeding Vacant Manager Wheat and Barley Breeding Andreas Betzner Manager Pulse/Oilseed Breeding Brondwen MacLean

New Products Executive Manager Vince Logan Administrative Coordinator Bettina Garrett Manager New Farm Products and Services Paul Meibusch GRDC Manager Pulse/Oilseed Breeding Brondwen Manager New Grain Products Jody Higgins MacLean inspects desi chickpeas with green seedcoats on offer in wholesale pulse markets in a Temporary staff Mumbai, India. Photo: Rohan Kimber – SARDI

30 GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 The GRDC team

The Board

Keith Perrett Peter Reading Nicole Birrell Colin Butcher Chair (Non-executive) Managing Director (Executive) Director (Non-executive) Director (Non-executive)

Keith Perrett was appointed the Peter has been Managing Director Nicole runs a risk management Colin is a grain producer from GRDC’s Chair in September 2007 of the GRDC since February 2004. consulting business, and a mixed Brookton in WA. His farming for a three year term. Keith who is Peter had previously been the farming enterprise at Corowa, NSW. business produces wheat, canola, well known in the grains industry, Managing Director of the Grain Nicole has more than 28 years’ barley, and hay for export, and sheep runs a mixed grain, sheep and cattle Pool Pty Ltd. Peter graduated from experience in corporate and for meat and wool. He has extensive property near Gunnedah in New the University of Sydney with an investment banking. experience in the grains industry and South Wales. He has had extensive honours degree in agricultural a strong interest in the management experience in the grains industry science. and conservation of natural as both a producer and industry resources. leader with organisations such as The Grains Council of Australia and NSW Farmers Association.

Jenny Goddard Steve Marshall Tim Reeves Graeme Robertson Director (Non-executive) Director (Non-executive) Director (Non-executive) Director (Non-executive)

Jenny runs her own business as an Steve has a background in food Tim is a consultant in agriculture Graeme has been the Director of economic consultant. She has 23 science and technology R&D, sustainable agriculture, Curtin University’s School of years of experience as an economic management. He was Managing natural resource management Agriculture and Environment (the policy adviser to the Australian Director of Goodman Fielder and international development. Muresk Institute) since March 2004. Government. Jenny has an Ingredients Ltd from 1993 to 1998 He recently returned from Mexico, Previously, Graeme spent ten years extensive understanding of and Technology Director of where he was Director General of as Director General of the Western government policies, processes Goodman Fielder Ltd from 1999 to the International Maize and Wheat Australian Department of Agriculture and administration. 2001. Improvement Centre (CIMMYT). and was the inaugural Chair of the Land and Water Resources Research and Development Corporation.

GRDC Growers’ Report 2008–09 31 GRDC Investment Process Timetable

Investment Planning Week • Program Teams and Regional Panels discuss and recommend next year’s July potential investments • National Panel approves next steps for potential investments

GRDC Board Meeting • Board discusses indicative budget for next financial year August External Investment Plan (open and multi-stage tender) released Round of Conference, Travel and Industry Development Award applications close

Regional Panel Spring Tour • Consult with growers and industry to identify regional issues September • Communicate with growers GRDC outcomes and activities Final Reports due for GRDC Investment Projects ended 30 June

October Round of Training Award applications close Ministerial approval of the GRDC Annual Report Program Teams assess tender responses from External Investment Plan November Direct negotiation and renegotiation of continuing investments

December Training Awards announced for GRDC Scholarships / Fellowships

Research Advisory Committee (RAC) meetings held in the Southern and January Northern Regions • Industry Consultation meetings held in the Western Region • RAC meetings also held at other times of year depending on region and February RAC structure Round of Conference, Travel and Industry Development Award applications close

Review and Priorities Meeting • Provide final sign off on new investments • Discuss and review finishing projects March • Discuss and provide preliminary ranking of Regional Panel Priorities for Investment Planning Week GRDC Board Meeting • Board approval of budget and investments for next financial year

Finalise Regional Panel Priorities Paper April • Regional Panel Priorities are provided to Program Teams to be considered when developing new investments for the following year

Program Teams review project progress reports for continuing investments May Program Team discussions in preparation for Investment Planning Week

Finalise outstanding contracting and variations to continuing investments June Cross-LOB discussions in preparation for Investment Planning Week Ministerial approval of the GRDC Annual Operational Plan

GRDC location and contact details Location: Telephone: 02 6166 4500 Facsimile: This supplement compiled and Level 1, Tourism House 02 6166 4599 edited, on behalf of the GRDC, 40 Blackall Street BARTON ACT 2600 Email: [email protected] by Australian Grain magazine Postal address: Website: www.grdc.com.au Designed and Typeset by Four Design Group P/L PO Box 5367 KINGSTON ACT 2604

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