Prices receive support in June as weather conditions influence both local and international growers.

Cropping update, July 2023

Rainfall across Western Australia (WA) has set the season on a different path compared to a month ago which is pleasing for growers. South Australia (SA) received large amounts of rain in June which were favourable from a longer-term point of view, however, the increased moisture levels have led to weed and disease pressure.

Local grain prices were volatile in June on the back of Northern hemisphere weather outlooks. Canola prices received support as buyers were forced to increase prices to match grower expectations. Trent Smoker, General Manager of Clear Grain Exchange provides an in-depth look at markets below.

The three-month rainfall outlook from July to September has changed with a higher chance of exceeding median rainfall across much of Queensland and Central Australia. The outlook remains drier for parts of WA, Victoria and New South Wales.

Western Australia

“June has seen a major turnaround in conditions in WA, with most agricultural regions receiving significant amounts of rainfall. This has given growers the confidence to complete the sowing program for this season.

“With the large amounts of rainfall, it has quickly become problematic to get across many paddocks. Activities such as Nitrogen top ups and early season pest control have been challenging. While it is wet it has also come in cold. While this has slowed up growth rates in crops, it has also reduced the presence of many issues such as insect pests and disease.

“Challenges for growers this year are varied, including slugs and snails which have survived over summer in some of the thick stubbles from last year. With slow growing crops these pests have caused issues in many areas. Control is not always easy as baiting has variable results.

“We are seeing a high presence of net blotch in barley this year. It is concerning seeing it this early in the year as many varieties have a low natural resistance, therefore will rely on fungicides to control.

“It’s pleasing to see a full profile of moisture in many areas of the state at this time of the year. It puts everyone into a positive frame of mind as we head into some longer days and ideal growing conditions.” -

Bill Moore, Elders Technical Services Manager, Western Australia.

South Australia

“The season is shaping up to be above average, with above average rain in June across most of the state. In many areas thunderstorms have made some paddocks inaccessible due to water logging.