The latest commodity price outlook and the fundamental drivers shaping 2026 farm business decisions will be a key feature of BCG’s Trials Review Day, to be held on Friday 20 February at the Birchip Community Leisure Centre.
Former local resident, Joe Boyle will return to present a market outlook session designed to strengthen farm business decision making in 2026.
Joe is an Agricultural Analyst with Bendigo Bank Agribusiness, based out of the Bendigo head office. He completed his schooling at Birchip P-12 School before completing a Bachelor of Agriculture at the University of Melbourne in 2017. He specialises in sheep, wool, and grain markets, and has experience working on-farm and in front-line banking roles around Victoria.
Focusing on wheat, barley, canola and lentil markets, Joe will provide an overview of the price drivers and outlook for each commodity.
“I’m looking forward to discussing the key factors driving commodity prices in 2026 with BCG members” said Mr Boyle. “The current volatility in geopolitics is driving a lot of uncertainty in markets at the moment, while the stronger Australian Dollar will be one to watch going forward as well. These factors will certainly have an impact on prices and profitability of enterprises in Western Victoria.”
BCG Senior Manager Extension and Communications, Alicia Gault said Joe’s addition to the program will assist in ensuring the 2026 growing season a productive and profitable one for BCG members. “By the end of the day, growers will feel equipped with not only the latest local research results but with a clearer understanding of the financial context those results sit within” she said.
The addition of a dedicated commodity market outlook to the program reflects the strategic shift in focus at Trials Review Day to include the financial considerations of farming decision making. Alongside Joe Boyle, agricultural economist Bill Malcolm will present on cost of production, while BCG staff will discuss current research findings through a profitability lens.
“It is well understood that enterprise selection isn’t based on yield alone, therefore profitability considerations will be a part of the discussion at this year’s event” Ms Gault added.
BCG will release its latest research results to BCG members on Friday 20 February. To book your place and receive your 2025 BCG Season Research Results compendium, sign up to become a member today at bcg.org.au or call (03) 5492 2787.
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Questions for Trials Review Day
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