Approximately 350 growers and industry representatives took advantage of the sunny and social conditions at Narraport last week to attend the 2018 BCG Main Field Day.
“Local knowledge and a great variety of speakers” were the highlights offered by one attendee as growers from across the Mallee, Wimmera and beyond visited BCG’s main research site at Peter and Jenny Jolly’s property on the Nullawil-Birchip Road.
BCG CEO, Chris Sounness reiterated the value of local input and thanked the Jolly family for making the site available.
“Farmers who make resources available such as paddocks, livestock and equipment for local research are key contributors to BCG’s success,” he said.
“We had three farmer presenters as part of the line up (Robbie Lee, Russell Hocking and Tom Batters) and this reflects our commitment to combine research with on-farm application.”
The site was in excellent condition particularly considering the current climatic conditions and during the morning touring sessions, attendees were able to see this firsthand with a choice of visiting eight information sessions, including a sheep display.
The afternoon sessions continued the range and quality of information shared.
Technical information on ‘Effective spray application’ with Bill Gordon, Bill Gordon Consulting and a sheep demonstration ‘eID, automatic drafting and managing mobs effectively’ Anthony Shepherd, Sheep Matters were well received.
A session delivered by Carissa Buckland, Bayer, ‘Glyphosate: global status, the US jury verdict and fallout, science regulation and on farm use’ provided growers with information and the opportunity to ask questions enabling them to talk about the issues.
“It was very useful and needed” another attended said.
The average age of the crowd was notably lower than in previous years as the Rural Bank supported Parent’s Retreat, attracted parents and a much younger group of attendees, particularly those under five.
The day closed with sundowner refreshments provided by Furphy Beer offering the chance for members and non-members to catch up, reflect on the day’s learning and a season that is drawing to a close much sooner than many would hope.
BCG would like to express thanks to the speakers who shared their expertise and the funding bodies for supporting the research.
BCG members who were unable to attend the field day will be able to access audio recordings from the BCG members only portal of the BCG website in coming weeks. For details, or to become a member, phone BCG on (03) 5492 2787.
