“The broad range and number of topics at BCG’s Main Field Day on Wednesday the 13th of September is a highly efficient and productive way to immerse yourself in local research which can be directly applied on farm,” BCG Senior Manager of Research, Dr Yolanda Plowman said. Topics include: optical spray technology, soil management, wheat barley and canola National Variety Trials, pulse varieties and disease, silicon in crops, seasonal disease management in cereals, canola establishment, barley agronomy, herbicide trials, pastures and oaten hay, livestock eID and natural capital accounting.
“The event and research conducted at the site at Kinnabulla are a perfect illustration of the collaborative approach we take to our research. As a farmer driven organisation, we have designed the research and program in consultation with farmers as well as fellow researchers, government, universities and industry which ensures the work is sound, timely, and relevant,” Dr Plowman explained.
A highlight of the event for Dr Plowman will be discussing the four-year Farming Systems Trial, which aims to help farmers manage risk: “The Farming Systems Trial is extremely relevant as it was designed with farmers in the area. The fully phased trial is looking at cropping intensity, cropping rotations and nitrogen management. We will be evaluating what is happening above and below the ground in each scenario and stage. This research will optimise knowledge of these factors for the best production outcomes for growers,” Dr Plowman said.
Following the in-field sessions, growers and advisers will come together in the marquee to hear from Michaela Alexander from the Bureau of Meteorology who will explain the latest climate tools available, Peter Hayman from PIRSA-SARDI who will discuss the risk versus reward of on-farm decision making and Tony Catt from Catapult Wealth presenting Passing the baton in succession planning.
As part of the Victoria Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub North West Node, this year the BCG Main Field Day will have a focus on how farmers can build resilience in times of drought. By gaining information regarding best practice and the latest advances in research, agronomy and chemistry the event aims to provide attendees with the tools needed to capitalise in good years and weather the bad.
The event will begin at 9am with onsite catering available from lunch through to drinks at the conclusion of the day.
The event will be held at BCG’s Main Research Site at Kinnabulla, seven kilometres west of Kinnabulla on Kinnabulla West Road. This event is free for BCG members and $50 for non-members. To become a member, visit bcg.org.au For more information on becoming a member or regarding the field day call (03) 5492 2787.
This event is part funded through the BCG managed North West Broadacre node of the Victoria Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub, which is supported by the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund.
