What an incredible start to a season that, early on, was promising a lot of worry and concern. Sowing is now largely wrapped up for most growers following excellent rainfall events throughout autumn and into early winter. Many growers are commenting that it has been one of the strongest starts to a season in several years, with good soil moisture, strong crop establishment and the opportunity to implement planned programs in a timely way.
After a number of challenging and uncertain seasons, there is no doubt the mood across the region has lifted. Whilst there remains ongoing uncertainty around input costs, markets and the season ahead, growers have focused on what they do best: adapted, planned ahead and focused on controlling the controllables. The past few months have again highlighted the capability and professionalism that exists within farming businesses across north west Victoria. The strong start has also reinforced the value of preparation and planning yet also the ability to adapt to changing conditions when circumstances vary. From weed control and nutrition strategies through to machinery readiness and labour management, many businesses were well positioned to take advantage of the conditions when the opportunity arrived. While the season has opened positively, our work through the Federal Government’s Future Drought Fund continues to highlight the importance of balancing optimism with preparedness. Strong seasons create opportunity, but resilient farming systems are built on the ability to adapt as conditions evolve.
At BCG, our team’s focus now shifts toward supporting in-season decision making and continuing to deliver research and extension activities that help growers navigate both opportunity and risk throughout the months ahead. With strong crop potential already being discussed, conversations are quickly turning toward nitrogen management, seasonal outlooks and grain marketing decisions. Planning is also well underway for Main Field Day on 9 September, one of the key events on the BCG calendar and an important opportunity to showcase local research and practical insights from across the industry. Given the strong start to the season and the decisions now in front of growers, upcoming BCG events provide a timely opportunity to connect, ask questions and consider how best to respond to current conditions. Alongside this, it continues to be exciting to see momentum building through our Young Farmer Network, with a number of opportunities planned over the coming months for farmers to connect, learn and build their networks. I am continually impressed by the enthusiasm, curiosity and drive of young farmers across our region and their willingness to invest in both their businesses and the future of agriculture more broadly.
I would also like to acknowledge the exceptional efforts of the BCG staff team throughout what has been an incredibly busy period. Across research, extension, communications and operations, the energy, professionalism and commitment shown by staff continues to be a real strength of the organisation. BCG’s ability to deliver practical, locally relevant research and extension is built on the dedication of people who understand the region, listen to growers and work hard to ensure information is timely, independent and useful. From trials and technical content through to events, partnerships, media and grower engagement, the breadth and quality of work being delivered across the organisation is something the Board is incredibly proud of.
On behalf of the BCG Board, thank you to our members, partners and supporters for your continued contribution to the organisation and broader grains industry. We wish everyone a safe, productive and successful season ahead and look forward to seeing how crops progress across the region over the coming months.
Brett Hosking
Chair, Birchip Cropping Group
