After almost seven weeks, and countless hours, BCG’s plot harvester returned to the shed on Thursday having made its way through almost 100 trials at 15 sites spread across the Wimmera and Mallee.
Thanks to a concerted effort by staff, who have worked long hours and on weekends for the duration of harvest, the results of season long research trials are now being analysed and written up for publication in the 2012 BCG Season Research Results handbook.
BCG trials coordinator Claire Browne said she was happy with the harvest.
“It’s been smooth sailing. The header ran well and everyone did a great job,” she said.
Beginning at Chinkapook and Sea Lake in early November, the plot harvester worked through wheat, barley pulse and canola trials at Kyalite, Birchip, Ouyen, Swan Hill, Quambatook, Waitchie, Hopetoun, Horsham, Jil Jil, Marnoo, Yanac, Nhill and Ballapur before finishing up at Rupanyup this week.
However, while harvest is now over for another year, for most BCG staff the busy period will continue.
In conjunction with harvest, the trials team has been collecting post-harvest soil samples and putting soil and grain samples through the lab.
Currently data is being analysed and the results from this year’s trials are being written up.
BCG is looking forward to presenting members with its annual Season Research Results publication at Trials Review Day on February 15.
For information phone BCG on 5492 2787 or visit: www.bcg.org.au
