There’s a buzz in the air at BCG.
Over the past few months, we’ve had the pleasure of hosting work experience students from a range of learning institutions. A group of high school level students from Birchip P-12 School, Sea Lake’s Tyrrell College, and The Hamilton and Alexandra College have attended BCG. Steph Scott from the University of Melbourne, Amelia Lymer from Longerenong College, Hannah Mattiske from the University of New England and Connor Lee, a recent Birchip P-12 graduate, completed the group. Connor spent two weeks with us exploring a future in agricultural research. The energy, curiosity and optimism of these young people was energising, reassuring us that the future of agriculture is in good hands.
BCG takes pleasure in being able to support such keen students on their journey. Of course, we hope that their paths lead back to us in one way or another.
Our team has also been stepping up its skills, with staff taking part in training on drone use, crop growth staging and field assessments. This investment in our people is aimed at continued delivery of timely, practical and trusted information for our members.
Recent farmer engagement has been outstanding. We’ve seen a flurry of activity in our BCG Farmer Advisory chat groups, had crop photos flooding in, and shared great discussions at recent CMA crop walks. These moments of connection and shared learning are at the heart of what BCG is all about. Perhaps more important when seasonal conditions are less favourable.
We were thrilled to welcome Dr James Nuttall to the BCG team this week. James brings extensive expertise in agronomy and research, and we look forward to the knowledge and value he will bring to BCG’s work.
We’re also counting down to the BCG Ag Tech Expo at Charlton Park on Wednesday 16 July. This will be a full day of ag tech, innovation, and practical thinking, designed to spark new ideas and connect farmers with future-focused tools and opportunities.
Two weeks ago, I had the privilege of travelling to Canberra as part of the CSIRO Agriculture and Food Advisory Committee. A highlight was visiting the Boorowa Research Station, a world-class site producing top-tier research. It was energising to see how comparable BCG’s work is and to reflect on the many opportunities ahead for even stronger national collaboration.
Right now, BCG is also refreshing its strategic plan, revisiting our role in the region, the trials we undertake, and how we can best serve the needs of our members and farmers. The challenge is to continue to be relevant, useful and future-ready.
BCG is your organisation; we want to hear from you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with your feedback or ideas.
There’s plenty to feel good about, and even more to look forward to.
Fiona Best
CEO
