Welcome to the 2024 BCG Season Research Results Compendium. It’s been another remarkable year for BCG, with new milestones reached in research, extension, and community engagement. This compendium is a reflection of the dedication, innovation, and collaboration that underpins everything we do.
In 2024, BCG conducted 176 trials across 50 sites, delivering robust, regionally relevant data to help growers tackle challenges and seize opportunities. These trials remain the backbone of our work, driving innovation and empowering members to make more informed decisions on their farms.
The year also saw 27 BCG events, attracting over 1,500 attendees eager to learn, network, and share insights. The Chair’s Breakfast was a standout, with Professor Richard Eckard presenting a thought-provoking session on what “Net Zero 2050” means for the grains industry. His address sparked meaningful discussions about reducing emissions while maintaining productivity and profitability.
BCG’s efforts to support young farmers gained further momentum in 2024. The Young Farmer Network continues to go from strength to strength, providing tailored learning opportunities and fostering connections that are vital for the next generation of growers. The Young Farmer Network Ball, a sold-out event that brought together 300 attendees for an evening of networking, was a fantastic way to broaden BCG’s reach, providing a fresh and diverse platform to engage with younger members of the farming community.
The Main Field Day, hosted by the Watts family, was another success, offering attendees an engaging platform to explore the latest research and technologies. These flagship events are a testament to the value of bringing people together to share knowledge and strengthen our farming community.
This year, we also bid farewell to long-serving board members James Hunt and Simon Craig, whose contributions have left a lasting legacy. Their strategic insights and commitment have been pivotal to BCG’s success, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude for their service.
Looking ahead, the research showcased in this compendium offers a wealth of knowledge for the future. From variety performance to nutrient strategies and weed management, these findings equip our members with tools to make informed and sustainable choices.
As always, our achievements are made possible by the collaboration and support of our partners, including GRDC, and by the hard work of our dedicated BCG staff, led by CEO Fiona Best. Their expertise and tireless efforts ensure that BCG continues to deliver value to our members and the broader farming community.
Finally, I would like to thank you – our members. Your commitment, whether through hosting trials, attending events, or sharing feedback, is what drives us forward. Together, we are building a resilient and prosperous future for farming in our region.
I hope this compendium serves as both a reference and an inspiration as you plan for a successful 2025
