The Australian Agronomist magazine Winter 2016 by The Australian Agronomist

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MAGAZINE

WINTER 2016 ISSUE 5

Taking the next step using dairy effluent

2015 pulse exports set Australian record

Like oils ain’t oils, sulfur ain’t sulfur

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THE AUSTRALIAN AGRONOMIST WINTER

CONTENTS 4 TAKING THE NEXT STEP USING DAIRY EFFLUENT

16 TIME FOR AN N-RICH STRIP

NEW RESEARCH TO GUARD NATURAL POTATO PEST PATHWAYS INTO AUSTRALIA

MULTI-PRONGED APPROACH MEETS WEED CHALLENGES AT PARKES

34 20

10 2015 PULSE EXPORTS SET AUSTRALIAN RECORD

BUILDING SOIL WEALTH IN SOUTH WEST WA

INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY FOR FASTER AVOCADOS

38 NEW PARTNERSHIP IN ROBOTICS

13 ALBUS LUPIN PERFORM BETTER ON NARROW SPACING

AUSSIE INVENTION LEADS TO WORLD FIRST GLUTENFREE BARLEY BEER

50 EVOLVING NEW WEAPONS AGAINST AGRICULTURAL PESTS

LIKE OILS AIN’T OILS, SULFUR AIN’T SULFUR

56 MULTIPLE BENEFITS FROM 20 YEARS OF GM CROP PRODUCTION

28 PROTECTING LIVESTOCK FROM A TOXIC NATIVE LEGUME

PO BOX 812 Strathfieldsaye VIC Australia 3551 P: 03 5441 8166 E: info@theaustralianagronomist.com W: www.theaustralianagronomist.com Design & Advertising Michael Cook Email: michael@theaustralianagronomist.com Phone: 03 5441 8166

Publisher Paul Banks Email: paul@theaustralianagronomist.com Phone: 03 5441 8166

TAKING THE NEXT STEP USING DAIRY EFFLUENT BY DON COOK

Photo supplied courtesy of Dairy Australia

“Paddock to plate” is a popular theme in the food industry but from an agronomy perspective the theme “research to paddock” is more appropriate. Fertsmart is the Australian dairy industry’s national nutrient management framework developed by Dairy Australia in collaboration with farm nutrient advisors and dairy farmers. Taking the next step using dairy effluent has seen Dairy Australia consultant Scott Birchall working with groups in northern Victoria & southern NSW to ensure key messages from industry research (particularly the project “Accounting for Nutrients on Australian Dairy Farms”) are understood and being utilised on farm. Dairy effluent is a natural fertiliser and soil conditioner and, if managed effectively, can enhance pasture growth and improve soil structure. Understanding the characteristics and quantity of manure being generated by the farm’s dairy herd is the logical starting point. Liquid dairy effluent contains relatively large amounts of readily plant available nutrients, particularly potassium (K) and nitrogen (N). Best responses are obtained when effluent is applied to actively growing crops or pastures in the warmer months of the year. Dairy sludge has high solids content, typically 6-8% DM, and requires specialist handling equipment. Sludge acts as a longacting, slow-release nutrient source as nutrients are in organic forms and need to be mineralized to plant available forms. A guide to the proportions of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in effluent and sludge and the proportion of N lost by volatilisation is outlined in the following diagram. 4

As an example based on excretion data for 100 cows Source: Accounting for nutrients on Australian dairy farms

N (kg/yr)

P (kg/yr)

K Note (kg/yr)

Nutrient excreted

13,000

1,800

10,200

Nutrient collected at dairy

1,300

180

1,020

2.4 hours on yard (10%)

Nutrient in effluent

650

130

920

(50% of N collected, 70% of P, 90% of K) (20% of N collected, 30% of P, 10% of K)

Nutrient in sludge

260

100

N loss in volatilisation

390

(30% of N collected)

Conservatively discount numbers by 30% when estimating fertiliser substitution, so for 100 cows the annual nutrient application from effluent based on 5 Ha reuse area per 100 cows:

Nutrient applied: Effluent with 5 Ha reuse area per 100 cows

N (kg/yr)

P (kgyr)

K (kg/yr)

128

Note

Discounted by 30%

THE AUSTRALIAN AGRONOMIST WINTER

“Making more informed decisions regarding dairy effluent use not only saves money but also improves pasture productivity.” Don Cook

Because of farm to farm variation Scott is encouraging farmers to sample their own effluent or sludge and base planning on more accurate data. Actual effluent concentration data from Mark and Phillipa Flemming, Philmar in southern NSW was collected prior to a field day on the property and highlighted the variation using a multi pond system. Source: Scott Birchall

N (mg/L)

P (mg/L)

K (mg/L)

3rd pond liquid

590

1st pond sludge

1600

360

690

“Typical” single pond (ave. Victoria, DEPI)

377

425

“Typical” second pond (ave. Victoria, DEPI)

241

419

N (kg)

P (kg)

K (kg)

Fert$mart participant farm: Philmar

Nutrient applied: Effluent application of 10mm Note: mg/L is the same as kg/ML

Moving forward Scott reinforced the points that recycling the nutrients contained in effluent not only saves money by substituting for purchased fertiliser, but also reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

“Making more informed decisions regarding dairy effluent use not only saves money but also improves pasture productivity (with targeted use)” is the theme outlined by lead agronomist with the Fertsmart pilot program for northern Victoria, Don Cook when explaining to dairy groups how the information is used on farm. In this situation (and using existing soil testing data) the benefits were obvious in that the liquid effluent could be targeted for application on sections of the property that are being cut heavily for silage production on a regular basis (taking advantage of the N:K content). Sludge will be targeted for paddocks further away from the dairy (via spreader) that have been identified as having lower soil fertility and organic matter base (taking advantage of N:P:S inputs and in particular the manure solids). Ultimately the decision to substitute nutrients from effluent inputs for conventional fertiliser inputs is normally made in conjunction with your local agronomist based on intensity of use and targeted level of production. In summary Don emphasised the Fertsmart framework encourages dairy farmers to work closely with their agronomists at the same time recognising industry best management practices. For more information refer to the Fertsmart resources that are freely available on-line: http://fertsmart.dairyingfortomorrow.com. au/dairy-soils-and-fertiliser-manual/chapter-13-using-dairy-effluent/

HOW TO BUILD AN AUTUMN FEED WEDGE FIONA BAKER, MEAT INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT OFFICER FROM THE VICTORIAN DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND PRIMARY INDUSTRIES, SHARES HER ADVICE FOR BUILDING AN AUTUMN FEED WEDGE. During autumn and into winter, pasture growth rates and rates of new leaf emergence can drop to such low levels that paddock feed can easily be exhausted, resulting in overgrazed pastures and the need for supplementary feeding. The term ‘building a feed wedge’ refers to growing more pasture than stock can consume during late summer and early autumn to deliver a bank of feed for consumption during winter. This allows feed to be preserved where paddocks may otherwise be grazed out, minimising soil damage and potentially reducing supplementary feed requirements. What level of feed should be targeted? Feed budgeting provides the answer to how much feed is required to be conserved in a feed wedge. The autumn and winter feed budget focuses on budgeting and allocating feed during the period where animal consumption exceeds pasture growth. This may vary in different regions of southern Australia. The example used below describes a 200 hectare property developing a winter feed budget during autumn to allow 80 autumn calved cows and 200 steers to be carried through winter from 1 June to 1 September in an average growing year. The property details are: • 200 steers weighing 300kg growing at 1kg/day • 80 cows, in fat score 2.5, with 3 month old calves at foot • Expected average pasture growth rate during winter months (1 June to 1 September) of 5kg DM/ha/day over the property • Pastures should not be grazed below 1,200 kgDM/ha to maximise winter growth rates According to this example, the total average feed cover required across the property at on 1 June is 1,810kg DM/ha. The property has assessed their pastures on 1 March and determined their current average pasture cover is 1,220kg DM/ha. The average pasture cover needs to be increased by 590kg DM/ ha, or 118,000kg DM over the entire property, during the next three months to meet the pasture target for 1 June. 6

How to achieve the feed wedge target If the total amount of pasture grown exceeds pasture consumption, the average pasture cover across the farm will be increasing. Stocking rates may be able to be adjusted to achieve the surplus required for the feed wedge. In this example, pasture consumption on 1 March is 9.32kg DM/ ha/day and pasture growth rate is 12kg DM/ha/day. The average pasture mass across the property is increasing by 2.68kg DM/ ha/day. This surplus of pasture will build to 241kg DM/ha, or 48,200kg DM over the coming three months, assuming the level of production remains constant. Feeding some supplementary feed during autumn can be more efficient than feeding the same amount of supplement in winter when pasture growth rates are reduced. This is due to reduced pasture consumption as a result of the supplementary feeding, allowing additional pasture to be grown to contribute to the feed wedge.

THE AUSTRALIAN AGRONOMIST WINTER

To illustrate this example, when feeding hay in autumn, the pasture is growing at around 10kg DM/ha. If the same amount of hay is fed in winter, when the pasture is only growing at 5kg DM/ha, only half the potential pasture growth over the period is realised (10kg DM/ha in autumn compared with 5kg DM/ha in winter). Another strategy could include utilising urea to boost the autumn and winter pasture growth rate. With adequate moisture a 10:1 response in growth rate is likely in grass based southern pastures from applied nitrogen over autumn. If 40kg N/ha (~ 80kg urea/ha) is applied, an extra 400kg DM/ha may be grown. Remember, this is just an estimate or budget of what may happen. Conditions often change so monthly monitoring of how much pasture is on hand is important.

“Feeding some supplementary feed during autumn can be more efficient than feeding the same amount of supplement in winter when pasture growth rates are reduced.” Fiona Baker

Winter Feed Budget - worked example Stock requirements Class of stock

No. of stock (n)

Energy required (r)

energy pasture (p)

Total Daily requirement kgDM/day (+n x (r/p)

Steers (300kgLW growing 1 kg/day)

200

9.5

=200 x (76/9.5) = 1600

Cow with 3 month old calves

9.5

=80 x (90/9.5) = 757

Total requirements Less supplements of Pasture requirements

2357 kgDM/day (a) 0 kgDM/day (b) 2357 kgDM/day (c)

Estimated number of days for winter feed period 90 days (d) eg June 1 until MSD Effective Grazing Area 200 ha Available pasture needed at 5 kgDM/ha/day (x) growth - (c*d) - (x*area*d) = (2357 x 90) - (5 x 200 x 90) = 122,130 kgDM (e) Average Available Cover needed (e/area) (122,130/200) = 610 kgDM/ha Plus pasture base of 1200 kgDM/ha Total Average Feed Cover needed at the start of winter 1810 kgDM/ha (base + average available cover)

NEW CALCULATOR HELPS FARMERS TO BETTER USE EFFLUENT Dairy Australia has released a new calculator that aims to help farmers make better use of the nutrients contained in dairy effluent and sludge, and save money in the process.

then substitute for purchased fertiliser, desludging becomes a cost effective part of the fertility program rather than just another cost,” Scott further explained.

The ‘Nutrients from Effluent and Sludge Calculator’ assists dairy farmers to determine a suitable application rate for effluent as well, as the value of the nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium that is applied during reuse.

Kerang-based agronomist, Matt Page, has been using the calculator while preparing FertSmart nutrient management plans for his clients.

Importantly, users can also calculate a value for their effluent or sludge based on equivalent fertiliser prices. Dairy Australia Land Water and Carbon Consultant, Scott Birchall, said farmers are often told to sample their effluent and to then get a lab to analyse the amount of N, P & K it contains.

“Knowing how much nutrient is in the effluent or sludge is an important part of fertiliser planning. The calculator helps me to target the areas of the farm that need the nutrients and also understand when too much effluent on a paddock may be detrimental,” Matt said.

“The calculator was developed to answer the usual question that followed about working out how much to put on,” Scott said.

Early autumn is typically a time of maintenance around effluent ponds in southern dairy regions.

“The question is critical if it is pond sludge that is being spread, as the contractor’s cost is partly dependant on the application rate, and more importantly, the distance to the paddock that you’ve chosen for reuse,” he added.

Drawing down the effluent storage pond to its minimum level going into the autumn break, and also removing sludge that has accumulated in the primary pond, are key maintenance requirements to support a functional effluent pond system.

“The temptation to apply heavy rates of sludge in paddocks close to the pond is understandable but if you can match the amount of nutrient available to what the soil or crop needs and

The Nutrients from Effluent and Sludge Calculator’ calculator is available for free download from Dairy Australia’s Dairying for Tomorrow website www.dairyingfortomorrow.com.au

SALT MAPS A GOOD ACCOMPANIMENT FOR ON FARM PLANNING Significant reductions in soil salinity levels, and a vast improvement in pasture and crop growth continue to be realised, thanks to information provided through a long-term mapping project of the Torrumbarry and Loddon Valley Irrigation areas in Victoria. Almost every winter for the past 25 years a team of local staff and Agriculture Victoria scientists from Kerang, Pyramid Hill, Echuca and Tatura have been surveying and mapping soil salinity levels on irrigated farms. Kathy Long is an Irrigation Extension Officer at Agriculture Victoria. She said that a recent review of the surveys and soil maps is showing reductions in soil salinity levels since the end of the 'Millennium Drought' and the following floods that affected much of the surveyed area. "Mapping helps farmers identify the most productive, low salinity paddocks for future development. Salty, degraded areas can then be fenced and managed separately from the rest of the farm to improve the soil and more broadly farm income," said Kathy. Landholders and Agriculture Victoria staff, after the long drought and subsequent floods, began to notice an improvement in pasture and crop growth on areas that were once salty, so a project started to review old soil salinity maps and compare results. Eighteen farms were looked at, nine of which had been surveyed twice before the floods and nine surveyed before 2010 and then 8

after the 2011 flood. All of them showed lower salinity levels in the second survey. In addition water table levels across the Loddon Campaspe Region are lower than they were in the 1980’s and 1990’s. This will enable continued improvement in the health of soils on farms and the productive potential of the irrigation areas. "There is not enough detailed information to work out if the reduction in salinity is due to the drought, the flood, better farm management, improved regional drainage or a combination of all these things," Kathy said. "Salt mapping can help farmers make decisions where to irrigate most efficiently and to help identify any trends that may lead to better longer term land management," she concluded.

THE AUSTRALIAN AGRONOMIST WINTER

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2015 PULSE EXPORTS SET AUSTRALIAN RECORD 2015 WAS A YEAR OF STARK CONTRASTS FOR THE AUSTRALIAN PULSE INDUSTRY. WHILE GROWERS IN THE NORTHERN GROWING REGION EXPERIENCED AN EXCELLENT SEASON AND ACHIEVED RECORD PRODUCTION LEVELS, SEVERE HOT AND DRY CONDITIONS IN SPRING HEAVILY IMPACTED PULSES, ALONG WITH CEREALS AND OILSEED CROPS, GROWN IN THE SOUTHERN REGIONS. High prices for all pulses compared to currently deflated prices for wheat, barley and canola had encouraged growers in all regions to plant a larger area to pulses in 2015. According to Pulse Australia estimates, a record area of 614,000 hectares of desi chickpea was sown in 2015, compared to the previous record sown area of 564,000 hectares in 2012. This increased area, along with favourable growing conditions, led to above average production and Australian growers achieving record production levels. Nick Poutney, Grain Corp head trader for pulses, said the Australian chickpea crop sold fast, with maybe as much as 90% of the crop exported within the first three months following harvest. This has generated a record export program with 465,000 tonne exported in November2015 alone, double the previous record amount exported in November 2012. The consequence of this is that there will be very limited supply available from Australia for the remainder of 2016.

growers who are able will plant chickpea on as much of their land as is practical. A 10–20% increase in sown area is forecast, which could see the Australian industry break through the 1,000,000 tonne production ceiling. Kabuli chickpea production in 2015 was less than 50,000 tonnes due to the very dry conditions in the Wimmera and Mallee districts of Victoria particularly, where some crops were not harvested. Overall yields were down for the second year in a row across the southern Australia growing region, however the positive outlook for pulses is expected to encourage growers to plant an increased area in 2016. Pulse Australia industry development manager Mary Raynes estimates a total production figure of 250,000 tonnes for 2015, which is slightly up on 2014 production total despite the sown area being almost 20% larger than 2014.

“Two consecutive poor monsoon seasons in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh has created a massive import requirement in the region, which has in part driven increased interest in pulse production in Australia,” Nick said.

“Strong pricing for lentils drove the increased area and this is likely to happen again in 2016. Production in parts of South Australia, particularly the Yorke Peninsula, was outstanding in 2015 with yields of 1.3–2.5 t/ha offsetting the devastating yields in parts of Victoria. In all areas, the quality of lentil grain produced was excellent,” Mary said.

“The majority of desi chickpea producers will likely further increase their sown area in 2016. There is however a limit to the area of suitable land available, and due to high disease risk it is not possible for growers to plant chickpea in fields where chickpea has grown within the past four years. Sowing will also depend on widespread late summer rainfall across the traditional growing regions,” he added.

Strong demand continues for the large red lentil PBA Jumbo 2 and medium red lentil PBA Flash. Record high market prices have encouraged growers to market their lentil crop early and to warehouse their cereals. There is normally a short delay after harvest while growers clean their lentil grain to achieve the optimal graded product, however the whole Australian crop was exported with little to no lentil available through 2016.

With chickpea prices expected to remain about three times as high as wheat for the coming season, it is very likely that all

Mr Poutney said Australian growers are also aware that Canada has planted a large area to lentil, and provided average

THE AUSTRALIAN AGRONOMIST WINTER

“There is plenty of room for expansion for most pulses, and in Queensland mungbeans are an important part of that expansion as a summer crop to add to the choices growers have for a diverse and profitable rotation.” Stephen Donnelly growing conditions prevail, their crop is expected to produce approximately 3 million tonnes of grain, more than half a million more tonnes than the previous year.

Mungbean remains a very small crop in Australia, however it is gaining acceptance as a serious contender for summer crop production in the northern grain growing regions.

Australian traders expect this increased supply to taper the upward price trend, however prices are expected to remain strong and Australian growers are expected to respond with another increase in sown area in 2016. Growing conditions will again be the determining factor for yield.

Managing Director of Blue Ribbon Group, Stephen Donnelly said that the mungbean industry in Australia is experiencing exceptional growth with strong demand for the new varieties grown here that meet the exacting requirements of buyers in India, South-East Asia and China.

Field pea competes with lentil for cropping area in southern Australia growing areas and it is expected that growers will favour lentil production in 2016. Like lentil, field pea production in Australia was heavily impacted by the dry weather through the growing season. 2015 production of 213,000 tonnes was well down on 2014 production.

India currently sources the vast majority of the required supply of field pea from Canada, however plant breeders in Australia have released new varieties of white and green/blue pea that are well accepted by Indian buyers and it is expected that production of these varieties will slowly increase in Australia in coming years. These types generally attract a significant premium for growers above the price for Canadian yellow pea, providing a viable alternative for Australian farmers. Mr Poutney said Grain Corp is working closely with seed commercialiser, SeedNet, to develop and promote these new varieties that provide a whiter, rounder and sweeter pea product for consumers in India.

Over 90% of the mungbean grain produced in Australia is exported to markets in South East Asia, India, North America and Europe and is appreciated for its premium quality. India imported approximately 36,000 tonnes from the 100,000 tonne production in 2014/15, and a similar volume is expected to be traded from the current cropping season (2015/16). Pulse Australia chairman, Peter Wilson, couldn’t be happier with the outlook for chickpeas at the end of the 2015 season. Peter said pulses are competing well for planting area and that the market could well support another increase in yield and area in Australia. “I believe there is room in the market for one million plus tonnes per year out from our industry. This year, the desi production almost reached this target, even in what was a hard finish for some,” he added. “Pulses are such an efficient source of protein, requiring minimal processing before they are eaten, and drawing all the nitrogen they require from the atmosphere. The role these crops play in sustainable production and human health and well-being are the focal point of the 2016 International Year of Pulses campaign in Australia and around the world,” Peter concluded.

A NEW LARGE-SEEDED FABA BEAN SUITS MIDDLE EASTERN MARKET BY CINDY BENJAMIN

Faba bean growers in South Australia, Victoria and southern NSW now have another variety to consider for planting in 2016. Pulse Breeding Australia officially released PBA Zahra, a large seeded faba bean suited to the Middle Eastern markets, from the industry’s breeding program on 13 October. Pulse Australia industry development manager–southern region, Mary Raynes says the new variety has achieved an average 5 per cent higher yield compared to similar, older varieties such as Fiesta VF, Farah and Nura. “PBA Zahra is a possible direct replacement for PBA Rana, which was released in 2011, the only other large seeded faba bean variety adapted to the southern region,” she says. “PBA Zahra has a uniform seed size and colour and is superior grain quality to PBA Rana. In longer season environments particularly, PBA Zahra also delivers a significant long-term yield advantage over PBA Rana.”

PBA Zahra produces large, light brown, plump grain, comparable in size to PBA Rana. The overall grain colour is uniform and bright and there is generally a low rate of darkening during storage. PBA Zahra should be suitable to co-mingle with PBA Rana for a medium-large faba bean category for export to the major food markets in the Middle East. Bred by Dr Jeff Paull of Adelaide University, PBA Zahra has an end point royalty (EPR) of $3.85 per tonne (GST inclusive), which includes breeder royalties and applies upon delivery. Seed is available from the commercial partner, Seednet.

PBA Zahra is particularly responsive to high yielding situations where the yield advantage over PBA Rana can be over 10 per cent. In higher rainfall districts PBA Zahra has a distinct advantage due to its lower susceptibility to disease. It is resistant to the most prevalent strain of Ascochyta blight (pathotype 1) found in the southern region. It is equivalent to PBA Rana and PBA Samira, and less susceptible than Farah and Fiesta VF, to chocolate spot and faba bean rust.

Pulse Australia industry development manager (southern) with Jason Brand (Pulse research agronomist, Victorian government), Dr Jeff Paull (PBA faba bean breeder, University of Adelaide) and Rohan Kimber (Pulse crop pathologist, SARDI) at the launch of the newest faba bean variety for southern Australia, PBA Zahra.

THE AUSTRALIAN AGRONOMIST WINTER

ALBUS LUPIN PERFORM BETTER ON NARROW SPACING While narrow leaf lupin crops perform well on wider row spacing, recent research shows that albus lupin crops are best kept on narrow rows. Martin Harries from the Department of Agriculture and Food, Western Australia (DAFWA) in Geraldton has demonstrated that there is a 20 per cent yield penalty when albus lupin crops are sown at 44 cm spacing compared to sowing at 22 cm, a result that is in line with trial work conducted in 2005 and 2006. The Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) funded research was conducted within the Break Crop Agronomy Project on a trial site at Moonyoonooka, 15 km east of Geraldton as a result of renewed grower interest in the crop. The resurgence of albus lupin is a result of the 2012 release of Amira, a disease resistant variety, which has seen production of this valuable grain legume rise from near zero in 2013 to 10,000 tonnes in 2015. Martin said that Amira is very well adapted to the rich loamy/clay soils of the Chapman Valley in particular, but is popular in heavier textured soils across the wider Geraldton region. “Albus lupin was widely grown in the mid 1990’s, but soon disappeared when the fungal disease anthracnose wiped out the susceptible varieties available at the time,” Martin explained. “In recent years the strong rise in market price, and the release of the anthracnose resistant variety Amira, has seen production increase across Western Australia,” he added. Pulse Australia responded to the heightened level of interest, gathering together growers, traders, agronomists and Department of Agriculture and Food, Western Australia researchers in March 2015. Alan Meldrum, Pulse Australia industry development manager, said that the growers who attended were particularly keen to know if sowing in wide rows and at different seeding rates could help reduce the risk of anthracnose and sclerotinia potentially

reducing yield, or reduce the cost and increase the effectiveness of fungicide treatments. After the workshop, and in conjunction with Owen Mann from Great Northern Rural Supplies, Martin picked up the agronomy work with a trial that looked at two different row spacing and three seed rate treatments. “The dry winter conditions meant that fungal diseases did not affect the trial, and we could not test the theory of reduced disease incidence with wider rows. However, the drop in yield from narrow rows to wide rows suggests that you would need a substantial improvement in fungal disease control in wide rows to offset the cost of using a fungicide in narrow rows,” explained Martin. “Work is set to continue looking at fungicide options to provide growers with an in-crop option to control anthracnose and sclerotinia,” he added. Establishment conditions were difficult with only about 20 plants per square metre in the highest seed rate treatment of 120 kg/ha, when the target was 30 plants per square metre. Yield increased with the higher seeding rates, but there was no significant interaction between row spacing and seed rate, so it is not possible to provide a definite recommendation based on this trial alone. Overall, the average yield of the site was an impressive 2.2 t/ha. Martin said the market for albus lupin is well-defined and, although it is valuable, it is somewhat limited. “Albus lupin is strongly sought after as a snack food for North African markets, particularly in Egypt. However, the usual annual demand of about 50,000 tonnes is also supplied from New South Wales so there is a risk of over-supply, as has occurred in some years,” Martin said. “WA has a real freight advantage to reach this market so establishing a critical mass in production and a relatively stable price would assist this small but valuable crop. WA growers could comfortably supply 20–25,000 tonnes annually to this market,” he concluded.

DAFWA researcher, Martin Harries inspecting albus lupins grown in wide rows (44 cm), which yielded an average 20% less than crops sown on narrow rows (22 cm).

A PROVEN PERFORMER THAT JUST KEEPS ON PERFORMING TRUST IS SOMETHING HARD EARNED IN FARMING, AND ONE PRODUCT HAS BECOME SOMETHING OF A HOME-GROWN SUCCESS STORY IN THE CROP PROTECTION INDUSTRY AND WIDER FARMING SECTOR. Launched in by Australian company Vicchem nearly two decades ago, Hasten is the adjuvant that has earnt its reputation for getting results for the farmers using it. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more, Hasten continues to be the benchmark when it comes to leading life science companies testing their new chemistries in the field. Hasten is now the choice on label for over 25 registered active herbicides, insecticides and fungicides (referÂ table 4). Hasten is manufactured for Australian conditions with Australian grown canola oil, something many grain and oilseed producers find compelling. Its unique formulation attributes ensure a high crop safety level as required for use with selective herbicides. Since its introduction to Australian farmers in 1997, Hasten has to be the most effective adjuvant for Clethodim and a range of selective herbicides. Recent field trials with Clethodim have proven that Hasten is effective at the lower use rate of 0.5% (500mL per 100 litres of water). The original rate of 1% continues to provide consistent robust performance in a wider range of spray applications (refer table 1). Table 1 Control of Annual Ryegrass with Clethodim

Adjuvants have potential to cause phytotoxicity which may be due to them causing cellular membrane damage. This effect was evaluated in a laboratory study for three adjuvants using change in conductivity due to ion-leakage after potato tuber discs were immersed in adjuvant solutions for 3 hours at room temperature. Results show that Hasten produced only a small change in conductivity compared with water alone indicating relatively less cell damage. The mineral oil adjuvant UpTake and the non-ionic surfactant adjuvant BS1000 both produced significantly greater change indicating more cell damage occurred (refer Table 2). Table 2 % Cell Damage 40 35 30 25 20 15

100 10

80 70

0 Hasten + 0.5

60 50

Control

UpTake* + 0.5

BS1000* + 0.1

Normal Concentration

Hasten + 2.0

UpTake* + 2.0

BS1000* + 0.4

High Concentration

Other recent lab work has shown the effectiveness of Hasten as a penetrant and its pathway through a leaf cuticle due to the lipophilic properties of ethylated seed oil (refer table 3).

30 20 10 0 18DAT

27DAT

71 DAT

210g/ha Clethodim No Adjuvant

Uptake 0.5

18DAT

27DAT

71 DAT

300g/ha Clethodim Hasten 0.5

Hasten 1.0

Recent trials have shown Hasten to enhance the penetration of systemic actives such as saflufenacil (Sharpen), tebuconazole and clethodim through a leaf cuticle. This is through the specific oil process within the Hasten formulation when compared to other adjuvants and surfactants.

THE AUSTRALIAN AGRONOMIST WINTER

Table 3 Saflufenacil (Sharpen) Penetration

Lipophilic Pathway

Hasten

% of A.I. applied

30 25

Cuticle

Waxes Cutin Pectin

Active

Cells

10 5 0

12h

24h

Time after application No Adjuvant

Bonza - Mineral Oil

Hasten - Esterified Vegetable Oil

Leaf Surface

NEW OPTION FOR PULSE DISEASES AND OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE IN CEREALS A new benchmark is expected to be set for affordable high level disease protection in winter cereals and pulses. New foliar fungicide Veritas is due for registration and launch in June. It is a very similar product concept to Adama’s already successful Radial, but based on the active ingredients azoxystrobin and tebuconazole, a unique combination of ingredients that allows for the optimum balance between protectant and systemic disease control. Veritas will be registered across all key cereal diseases and for 2016 and 2017 will be covered for use in chickpeas and lentils by an APVMA permit (PER81533 expires 30th September 2017). Jock Leys is senior product manager at Adama. He said Adama are very excited to be able to offer a high level strobilurin based fungicide like Veritas in the cereal market at a sub $10/Ha price point. “We have been aware for some time that grower’s and agronomists willingness to adopt fungicides like this has been high but at the same time uptake has been limited by their high cost With Veritas coming in at this highly affordable level we are now expecting many more cereal growers to take the opportunity to upgrade from straight triazole based fungicides,” said Jock. Veritas has shown excellent levels of control against key cereal diseases when compared with other markets standards according to Jock. He pointed

out that in a key stripe rust trial at Arthurton in South Australia during 2011, Veritas at the low rate of 315mL/ ha performed equal to, or better than, other common cereal fungicides. With pulse prices and expected plantings through the roof this year, Jock said the permit to be able to use Veritas in chickpeas and lentils for Ascochyta and Grey Mould control is also a big positive for the industry. With no fungicides with these modes of action currently registered in pulses, this permit allows agronomists to take growers’ disease control to a higher level, as well as gaining the resistance management benefits of using unique modes of action. Adama are pursuing a full registration of Veritas in winter and summer pulses and expect to receive this in 2017. Registration is also being sought for peanuts and should be granted in time for use in the upcoming peanut crop over summer according to Jock.

Untreated control

Howzat 500ml/ha

Adama has placed a lot of emphasis on improving the technology available to growers for broadacre disease control, and the value for money offered to growers in this space. Importantly, the dual mode of action fungicides like Radial and Veritas offer genuine benefits with respect to resistance management. “With some of the sensitivity shifts that are being detected in key broadacre diseases recently, this is also something agronomists need to consider,” Jock concluded.

Veritas 1L/ha

TIME FOR AN N-RICH STRIP NITROGEN FERTILISER IS AN IMPORTANT INPUT TO CROP PRODUCTION, BUT SELECTING THE RIGHT RATE FOR N IN CEREAL AND OILSEED CROPS IS A TRICKY BUSINESS. The amount of in-crop mineralisation is often uncertain, as it depends on soil moisture, soil temperatures and the type of organic matter present. Depending on how much labile (or active) soil organic matter is present and the conditions, mineralisation may supply very little or as much as 100 kg N/ha or more to the N budget for a wheat or canola crop.

The use of an N-rich strip in a paddock will allow you to follow N supply in-crop and to see what responses are likely to additional N. It is not a yield trial but an indicator of the response to extra N. While the test area does not need to be a strip (it could be a patch 3 x 3 m), a strip helps identify spatial nutrient patterns rather than just at one spot.

THE AUSTRALIAN AGRONOMIST WINTER

What is an N-Rich strip?

How are strips used in the United States?

A N-rich strip is a part of the field that has had additional N applied, amounts above the base rate application. This provides a reference area where any a response can be seen. Because both in and out of the strip have the same amount of mineralisation and have been through the same environmental conditions, any differences can be attributed to the higher N supply in the strip.

In Oklahoma, the strips have been promoted for use with optical sensors, a calculator has been based on the difference between the NDVI value of the N-Rich strip and the untreated strip and days from sowing to come up with a recommendation of the N rate to be applied.

Where to put an N-Rich strip? If interested in managing the paddock as a whole, then run a strip across a typical part of the paddock. Use a GPS to record the position, or some visual markings in the paddock. If the paddock is to be zoned for different N management strategies, then run the strip across these areas so that the responses can be seen in those zones. This can help identify the right places for N application. How to set up an N-Rich strip? Before or after sowing, an additional strip of N fertiliser is applied across the paddock. This strip need only be a combine or airseeder width (solids) or a boom spray (fluid), and the rate can be 50 to 100 kg N/ha, and maybe 100 to 300 m long, it depends on the variability of the soil in the paddock and the sort of information the grower wants, site specific or general.

For further information, go to a link to a video with Dr Brian Arnall from Oklahoma State University on how they are using a sensor over N-Rich strips linked to a website to develop N recommendations. https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=d1dLZZWJg10 Can it be used for other nutrients? Of course, the same strategy can be applied to any test strip in a crop or pasture, such as investigating whether micronutrients or S are likely to give differences. For less mobile nutrients like P and K, the surface applications are likely to be less effective than at-sowing drilled fertilisers, so even if the strip shows up, the response to added nutrients may not be as much as when drill. Dr Brian Arnall from Oklahoma State University has been a proponent of N-Rich strips and his assistance is acknowledged in preparing these guidelines.

Applying with a boom, maybe mounted on a 4-wheel motorbike, can be quick, and you can do a strip up the paddock and then overlap half the boom width coming back to give two rates. How to monitor an N-Rich strip? As the crop grows, this N-Rich strip will give a reference to what response could be expected from additional N fertiliser in this paddock and in this season. The strips should be read at the very start of stem elongation, as at that time the responses to added N are likely to be more effective than later applications. The strips can be monitored visually or using hand-held or tractor mounted NDVI devices. If no differences can be seen, then there has probably been enough N supplied up until that point that the added N did not give a response. If a response is indicated, then a response to added nutrient is suggested. If application goes ahead, spread over the N-Rich strip so that it still has a little more N than the rest of the paddock and so will continue to indicate any potential response. The strips also provide confidence in a decision not to apply N where there is no response seen in the strip.

Vortex

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THE IMPORTANCE OF TACKLING EVOLVING FUNGICIDE RESISTANCE THREAT Following a history of overwhelming over-reliance on Group 3 fungicides in the broadacre sector, it’s not surprising the industry is now witnessing a sensitivity shift to diseases such as net blotch, powdery mildew and septoria. Currently, only two fungicide mode of action (MOA) groups are commercially available for foliar use in Australian cereal crops, triazoles (Group 3) and strobilurins (Group 11).

The lack of MOA choice puts the broadacre industry in a precarious position with regards to the development of fungicide resistance. Alarmingly, a popular practice for cereal disease management currently is applying a Group 3 fungicide in-furrow and also at seed dressing, then followed by extensive use of Group 3 fungicides for foliar disease control.

Net Blotch Researchers have identified that the barley disease Net Type Net Blotch (NTNB) in Western Australia is resistant to the fungicide tebuconazole, as well as other types of triazole fungicides. This discovery delivered a warning to growers to avoid spraying barley crops with straight tebuconazole products. Various tebuconazole products are registered to control powdery mildew and scald in barley. Its usage on these diseases is considered high risk because it encourages further development of NTNBresistant populations. WA growers have been encouraged to use alternative fungicide mixes that contain a quinone outside inhibitor (Qol), as NTNB is unlikely to develop significant resistance to Qol. The best example of a broad spectrum Qol is Amistar Xtra®. Certain other Qol products are registered for suppression only of net blotch on barley, which may in itself contribute to the future selection of Qol resistant populations.

Net blotch causes leaf death, poor grain development and increased screenings.

Powdery mildew Western Australian growers have noticed a decline in control with triazole-based fungicides on powdery mildew in barley crops. Powdery mildew populations resistant to tebuconazole based products have now been identified across the Western Australian wheat belt. The current recommendation is for growers to implement integrated management strategies to manage powdery mildew in 2016, given the presence of this fungicide resistance. According to DAFWA, tebuconazole will have reduced efficacy and is not recommended for powdery mildew control in barley. Use of tebuconazole at the rate for scald in barley would increase the selection pressure on the fungicide resistant strains of powdery mildew.

Powdery Mildew causes major yield losses in barley if infection occurs early in the season.

DAFWA noted that fungicides containing both a strobilurin and a triazole product, such as Amistar Xtra, have uncompromised activity against powdery mildew. Strobilurin based fungicide mixtures should be used once per season as part of a fungicide resistance strategy, within the disease management program. For greatest efficacy, Amistar Xtra should be applied before significant disease levels in-crop. SDHI seed treatment Group 7 fungicide based actives, such as Systiva®, have recently been registered for seed dressing against a number of diseases. Like other fungicide products, Group 7 fungicide based products are also vulnerable to resistance development. If a seed treatment with foliar disease activity is chosen this season, it should be used wisely. Where a foliar fungicide application is required, it should be with a product from a different MOA, as part of an integrated management package to prevent resistance development. 18

Septoria Tritici can infect crops at most stages of development and is common in temperate regions or early sown crops.

THE AUSTRALIAN AGRONOMIST WINTER

PASTURES FOR THE AUSTRALIAN FARMER -

pasturegenetics.com

PASTURE GENETICS GOLDSTRIKE SEED TREATMENT HAS BECOME A HOUSEHOLD NAME WITH THE AGRICULTURAL COMMUNITY WHERE THE SUCCESS OF PLANTING PASTURE LEGUMES IS REQUIRED. Over many years this process has been refined to create the highest seed quality and rhizobial life in the Australian market. Pasture Genetics are pleased to offer the new Goldstrike XLR8® treated sub tropical grass range. The final product offers high germination percentages in

grasses that are usually not seen in this segment. We offer a standard Goldstrike coating percentage of 60% across the range of Goldstrike XLR8® Sub Tropical Grasses. This accurate coating percentage allows farmers to aim for high target populations factoring in germination and seed coat. We see this as a critical part of the agronomic package for farmers to achieve the best results from Goldstrike Tropicals. The key to increasing production from a tropical grass pasture is to improve plant establishment. More plants established means

greater biomass production each year. The Goldstrike XLR8® seed treatment comes standard with the micro nutrients package and the Poncho Plus® insecticide. The benefits from XLR8® not only comes from the insect Premier Digit, Bambatsi and Gatton Panic and Purity 85% min. Germination 85% min.

protection, but has also shown long term benefit with early seedling plant growth. This has been demonstrated with stronger root systems in seedlings, leading to higher overall pasture establishment and long term pasture production.

Callide and Katambora Rhodes Grass Purity 85% min. Germination 50% min.

14 -16 Hakkinen Road, Wingfield, SA • P 08 8445 1111 • F 08 8445 7777 • seed@pasturegenetics.com •

Goldstrike XLR8 Tropical Grasses coating at 60%, offers farmers more seeds per kilogram compared to industry standards.

• pasturegenetics.com

PASTURE GENETICS – LEADING THE WAY IN SEED BREEDING INNOVATION Australian-owned forage seed company, Pasture Genetics, has secured its place as a leader in the agricultural seed sector through the adoption of advanced seed technologies and innovative plant breeding programs. The company is Australia’s first, fullyintegrated seed breeding, product development, marketing and distribution company and the only major player in the seed production industry conducting plant breeding in Australia for Australian conditions. General Manager, Rob Damin, said while the company’s main competitors focussed on the dairy sector in the 700-millimetre plus rainfall zone, Pasture Genetics took a much broader approach to covering Australia’s agricultural regions. “We do most of our business in the 250mm to 650mm rainfall zone. The bulk of our plant breeding efforts across all species are targeted at that zone. When you look at Australia, that encompasses most of the agricultural areas,” he said. Mr Damin said Pasture Genetics field tested its products through comprehensive, widereaching trial programs. “We have evaluation sites around Australia that are sown each year. We are constantly monitoring the performance of our current stable of products,” he said. “That goes in hand with the evaluation of new products coming through. They have to be able to stand up to the environmental conditions Australia throws at them.” Pasture Genetics’ progressive approach was highlighted by its foresight in developing and marketing the ground-breaking Goldstrike seed treatment process.

Under a research program funded by a $1 million federal grant in 2007, the company came up with a superior Goldstrike product that extends inoculant rhizobia life from less than 24 hours to an incredible 12 months for treated lucerne seed and six months for sub clovers and medics post treatment. The results were independently quantified by SARDI and inoculant supplier, New Edge Microbials. Goldstrike seed treatment now comes standard on the full range of Pasture Genetics pasture legume products, including lucerne, medics, sub clovers and clover, as well as brassicas, plantain, chicory and subtropical grasses. Pasture Genetics’ lucerne breeding program is the largest private lucerne breeding program in Australia. It incorporates the original Pasture Genetics program, plus Pioneer Hi-bred’s Australian lucerne breeding program that it acquired in 2004 and the NSW Department of Agriculture program. The company has also developed the Xtraleaf Forage Cereal Program breeding highperforming forage oats and barley to help fill the winter feed gap that occurs in many agricultural regions. Pasture Genetics has developed strong relationships with breeding houses throughout Australia and around the world, including NSW DPI, SARDI, DAFWA, Pioneer Hi-Bred, Pristine Forage Genetics, and the largest grass-breeding company in the world, DLF Seeds New Zealand/Denmark. Mr Damin said the advances in breeding and technology had allowed the company to offer customers a unique guarantee on the germination and emergence of their proprietary seed products.

8 XLR

“We are so confident about our seed genetics and seed quality we will replace any of our proprietary lines at half the original purchase price if they fail to establish satisfactorily in the first 30 days,” he said. The Establishment Guarantee applies across any environmental conditions that might cause an establishment failure. Mr Damin said the company had undergone a substantial evolution since it began in 1997 as Seed Distributors as a trader and supplier of ‘commons’ varieties of pasture seeds. In 2003 Pasture Genetics was formed as a separate company responsible for plant breeding and evaluation. Today, while still producing and marketing ‘commons’ material, the company is principally a proprietary breeder and marketer of seed. “We have seen a big transition of plant breeding into proprietary products. Hence, where we were a producer and marketer of ‘commons’ varieties, now more than half of our stable of products are proprietary types registered under Plant Breeders Rights,” Mr Damin said. The company has also adapted to the massive changes that have occurred in the breeding section over the past decade. “We are seeing plant breeding for pasture species transitioning from public breeding programs into private breeding programs,” he said. “That is where we have had to go as a company. There were government departments that had been breeding for 50 and 60 years and there was a fullstop put on it. That has created opportunities for us to take on people in the industry to keep these programs going.” 19

BUILDING SOIL WEALTH IN SOUTH WEST WA ONE FARM’S SUCCESS WITH BIOFUMIGATION. BY DANNY FYFFE AND GORDON RODGERS

In spring 2015 a field day on biofumigation at David and Lee East’s Bewray farm at Manjimup, Western Australia, attracted over 45 growers and industry specialists. The field day was held as part of Horticulture Innovation Australia’s (HIA) national Soil Wealth program, which aims to communicate information to farmers about practical and economically sound practices to improve soil health. The field day speakers included grower David East, leading vegetable agronomist Mike Titley and 2015 AUSVEG Researcher of the Year, Dr Doris Blaesing. Also speaking was Deb Archdeacon, a passionate advocate for sustainable agriculture who has promoted a range of effective approaches to improving soil wealth in the south west of WA for many years. Many farmers, agronomists, government agencies and machinery dealers attended the day, along with many local vegetable farmers, who travelled from Perth, Busselton and Bunbury. David and Lee East have been vegetable growers in Manjimup for over 25 years, where they grow baby leaf and contract lettuce over the warmer months. Four years ago David, began including a cover crop of Caliente mustard for green manure and biofumigation purposes into his cropping mix. How Caliente mustard works as a biofumigant

The cropping program David and Lee East’s production season begins with first plantings of lettuce and baby leaf in late September and the final harvest is in late March-April. Caliente is sown in April-May after the crop residues of the summer leaf program have been incorporated. It is generally a 120-130 day crop in the Southern Forest region of WA. The field day was timed to coincide with the incorporation of the Caliente crop into the soil so that visitors could witness this critical process that entails a three-pass operation. The forest soils on which the East’s farm are high in organic matter and can be prone to tie up phosphorous through elevated aluminium levels. The process The optimal stage to mulch the Caliente crop is when the crop is at around 20% flowering. This is when the beneficial fumigant compounds within the plant are at their peak. The soil needs to be moist at the time of incorporation to obtain maximum benefit from the breakdown process. The crop is mulched down to ground level in a single pass and then has two passes with a speed tiller before being rolled with a heavy roller to seal the soil.

All brassica crops contain glucosinalates which give brassicas their hot and spicy flavour (think horseradish and wasabi). However, most brassica crops for human consumption have been bred for less of these compounds to modify their flavour.

Sealing the soil is important to ensure that the gases released during the breakdown of the crop are activated against weeds and plant pathogens in the soil. If the soil is not rolled much of the “active” moisture in the crop will evaporate and weaken the impact of the process.

In nature, the presence of these glucosinalates probably provided some repellent effect against chewing insects.

Importantly, the three passes need to be done within a total of twenty minutes.

In Caliente mustard these glucosinalates have been maximised. When the crop is mulched and incorporated, in the presence of moisture, the glucosinalates breakdown to produce the biofumigant ITC (Isothiocyanate). It is this biofumigant that is active against weeds and many soil borne diseases including Pythium, Rhizoctonia, Fusarium, Verticillium and Sclerotinia. It also has a suppressant effect on nematodes.

THE AUSTRALIAN AGRONOMIST WINTER

Growing Caliente Prior to planting the crop David deep rips his soil in both directions to a depth of around 50cm. The crop is seeded between early April and mid-May. It is important to get the crop established whilst there is still some warmth so that it has enough bulk before the winter slows it down. Crops were seeded this year at around 10kg/ha. No fertiliser is added to grow the crop with David relying on the residues from his summer leaf cropping program. No herbicides are necessary as the crop smothers all competition. It is then just a matter of timing of incorporation which will generally be in September or around 120-130 days from sowing. The benefits Though David stresses that Caliente and will not solve all of a farmer’s soil problems, he has observed a range of beneficial effects. These include: • Suppression of soil borne diseases like pythium and rhizoctonia resulting in fewer seedling losses and less fungicide use in subsequent crops. He told his fellow farmers that in the crops that he has grown following Caliente that he has not had to use a fungicide at all. • Weed suppression has been significant, firstly from the crop smothering weeds during the crop growth and secondly from the fumigation effects of incorporating the crop. Wild radish in particular had been largely suppressed resulting in less need for herbicide. • Green manure. The Caliente crop on the East’s property grew around 80 tonnes/ha of bulk above ground not counting the roots. If we assume a dry matter content of around 8% and a phosphorous content of around 0.6% in the crop, then the incorporation of the mustard is putting 35-40kg of Phosphorous per hectare back into the soil in an organic form. Because the Caliente crop is deep rooted, much of the recycled nutrients are being brought up from deep in the soil profile, nutrients that would be normally unavailable to subsequent vegetable crops. • Improvement in the moisture holding capacity and infiltration of water into the soil. Where particular paddocks on the property had been prone to slipping and runoff after heavy rains, soils that had crops of Caliente incorporated were able to absorb the water without eroding or having runoff.Aside from these benefits the general health and fertility of the soil is enhanced through increasing organic matter in the soil. Dr. Doris Blaesing pointed out to the field day participants that “increasing the organic carbon in the soil stimulates a diverse range of soil microbes as well as worms”. “The diverse range of microbes provide a buffer against infection and stimulates increased mycorrhizal activity in the microenvironment around the plants’ roots enhancing soil fertility,” Doris said. David East said “Caliente is not a silver bullet but another safe and effective means by which farmers can increase their soil fertility, as well as a tool for combatting soil borne pathogens and weeds”. “Caliente is probably not suitable for rotating with brassica vegetables but other crop rotation practices such as the use of fumigator sorghum and the judicious use of lime and compost are also practices gaining favour in the south west, ” David added. The Soil Wealth program has a further two year to run with further field days planned to showcase to farmers practical and economically smart ways to improve their soils.

Caliente mulched and ready for incorporation

“Sealing the soil is important to ensure that the gases released during the breakdown of the crop are activated against weeds and plant pathogens in the soil.” Danny Fyffe 21

LIKE OILS AIN’T OILS, SULFUR AIN’T SULFUR BY GRAEME BLAIR - AGRONOMY AND SOIL SCIENCE, UNIVERSITY OF NEW ENGLAND

IT USED TO BE EASY WHEN THE PREDOMINANT FERTILISER USED WAS SINGLE SUPERPHOSPHATE (SSP), WHERE ALL THE SULFUR IS PRESENT AS SULFATE, WHICH IS IMMEDIATELY AVAILABLE TO THE PLANT. In the last 20 years there has been a proliferation in the fertilisers available which contain sulfur in various forms. These mostly contain elemental sulfur which is not immediately available to the plant. The potential advantage of these fertilisers is that they contain a higher nutrient density (more plant nutrients/tonne of product) and hence have lower transport costs, and generally have better handling properties than SSP. The elemental S contained in these alternative fertilisers must be converted to plant available sulfate by soil bacteria. The rate at which this occurs is primarily dependent on soil temperature and moisture and, most importantly, on the particle size of the elemental S in the fertiliser. Since soil temperature and moisture are major determinants of plant growth, and also control the oxidation rate of elemental S to plant available sulfate, plant demand and nutrient supply are synchronous which limits the risk of leaching losses of sulfate that can occur from SSP. Because very fine elemental S can be explosive it is costly and difficult to produce, so some fertiliser manufactures avoid this problem by including large particle sized elemental S, or S in other forms which only become slowly available to the plant. These other forms include the addition of sulfur/ bentonite granules or sulfur pastilles made from molten sulfur. Research conducted by the University of New England over many years has assessed the availability of sulfur from a wide range of fertilisers. These trials have been conducted in both the glasshouse and the field. Because sulfate is easily leached from the soil, losses from sulfate containing fertilisers, such as SSP, can be quite severe, particularly when applied in the autumn and winter rains can leach the sulfate from the soil and leave insufficient for spring growth. One glasshouse trial conducted at UNE over a period of approximately eight months showed large differences in the availability of S from different sources as shown on right hand side. 22

S SULFUR

32.066

THE AUSTRALIAN AGRONOMIST WINTER

Fertiliser S recovery by the plant (%)

elemental S particle size. He applied elemental S in three particle sizes (<150, 150-250 and 250-600 microns), along with finely powdered gypsum to white clover pasture.

100

MAPS

Superphosphate

The results showed that the initial response in white clover to was not different between gypsum and elemental S with particle size <150 microns, but that cumulative yield over three years was higher with fine elemental S than with gypsum.

S pastille

S bentonite

Treatment

Plant yield Relative to SSP

Control

Powdered gypsum 1

The highest plant yield and fertiliser S recovery was when powdered gypsum was spread evenly throughout the soil and plant roots easily accessed the sulfur. Whilst the recovery of fertiliser S was lower from MAPS and superphosphate plant yields were not reduced. The reason for this is that the sulfur supplied by the powdered gypsum was more than adequate for plant growth so there was luxury S uptake. This luxury uptake can occur under field conditions when sulfate containing fertilisers, such as SSP, are applied. The S concentration in the pasture can reach very high levels soon after application and most of this S is deposited in urine patches where it is of little value for pasture growth, and is highly susceptible to leaching. When the S was applied as a sulfur pastille or as S bentonite, plant yields were not different from the control and there was no fertiliser S recovered by the plant over the eight month period. This is because the S bentonite granule does not expand quickly and the S is not exposed to S oxidizing bacteria. Similarly, the S in the pastille has a low surface area and it can’t be accessed by the bacteria.

The recovery of applied S over the three year period was 23% from <150 micron, 16% from 150-250 micron and 9% from 250-600 micron materials, and 20% from gypsum. The bottom line is that when buying S containing fertiliser information about the form of S in the fertiliser needs to be obtained and the value of the S taken into account when calculating nutrient costs. Just as oils ain’t oils, sulfur ain’t sulfur.

“The highest plant yield and fertiliser S recovery was when powdered gypsum was spread evenly throughout the soil and plant roots easily accessed the sulfur.” Graeme Blair

Early field research conducted by Ron Weir of the NSW Department of Agriculture at Tia on the Northern Tablelands of NSW in the 1960’s highlighted the importance of 1.

Mono-ammonium phosphate coated with fine elemental and sulfate S

EL NIÑO DECLINING; 50% LIKELIHOOD OF LA NIÑA LATER IN 2016 While the 2015–16 El Niño remains at weak to moderate levels, recent changes in the tropical Pacific Ocean and atmosphere, combined with current climate model outlooks, suggest the likelihood of La Niña in 2016 has increased to around 50%.

By spring, five of the eight surveyed models suggest La Niña is likely, with three neutral. ENSO forecasts made at this time of year tend to have lower accuracy than at other times, with a clearer picture to emerge over the coming months.

As a result, the Bureau's ENSO Outlook status has moved to La Niña WATCH.

La Niña is often, but not always, associated with above-average winterspring rainfall over northern, central and eastern Australia.

Temperatures below the Pacific Ocean surface have declined since late 2015, with all but the top 50 metres now cooler than normal. At the sea surface, temperatures have cooled by over 1 °C since their peak, but remain warmer than average and still at El Niño levels. The Southern Oscillation Index and trade winds also show clear signs that El Niño is in decline. International climate models suggest El Niño will continue to weaken during the southern autumn, returning to neutral levels by mid-2016.

Australia's climate is also being influenced by record warm temperatures in the Indian Ocean. The warmth in the Indian Ocean will likely provide extra moisture for rain systems as they cross Australia during the southern autumn. The latest ENSO Wrap-Up, ENSO Outlook and Climate Model Summary are now available on the Bureau of Meteorology website.

NEW RADAR TO BOOST WEATHER FORECASTING CAPABILITIES IN THE WIMMERA REGION Australia has some of the world’s best weather radar coverage and forecasting services. To add to this capability, The Australian Government will provide $3.25 million to improve weather infrastructure and forecasting capabilities for the Wimmera region in regional Victoria. This recent announcement is a further boost for the Wimmera region and will provide more detailed weather information. Greg Hunt is Federal Minister for Environment. He said, “I am delighted to announce that the Australian Government will further improve our forecasting infrastructure with $3.25 million towards the operation a Doppler radar service in the Wimmera region over the next 15 years.” “I welcome the Wimmera Development Association’s work to develop a strong business case for the radar. The Bureau of Meteorology has been working closely with the Wimmera Development Association over the past 12 months on the development of the business case and will continue to do so,” Minister Hunt said. “Increasing radar coverage over the Wimmera region will deliver significant local economic benefits and deliver comprehensive coverage of Doppler weather radar to Victoria,” he added. 24

In addition, when their new supercomputer comes online mid-year, the Bureau will be able to provide even more accurate, more detailed, more timely and more frequently updated forecasts across Australia, including the Wimmera. Andrew Broad is Federal Member for Mallee. He said the project will improve the productivity of farmers in the Wimmera region significantly. “This is great news for the Wimmera. Once the radar is up and running, it will provide real time weather data, allowing farmers to make informed on-farm decisions, to achieve the best production outcomes,” Andrew said. “The Wimmera is a major agricultural region and the radar has the potential to deliver significant economic benefits. To secure this radar is important for the region as a whole and I look forward to seeing the project completed and delivering for the people of the Wimmera,” he added. The Bureau of Meteorology will choose the site for the radar and will be responsible for the operation and maintenance of the radar station. Australian Government support will link with funding provided by Victoria Government for the capital cost of the project. Subject to Victorian Government approvals, the Bureau of Meteorology expects services to be delivered by 1 July 2018.

THE AUSTRALIAN AGRONOMIST WINTER

THERE’S A NEW XPERT IN CEREAL DISEASE CONTROL. The new fungal disease solution for barley, oats and wheat. Its unique formulation, extensive registrations and dual mode of action, provides unsurpassed efficacy and flexibility.

UPDATED CLIMATE TOOLS TO AID CROP MANAGEMENT New and updated online climate forecasting tools are now available on the Department of Agriculture and Food Western Australia’s website to assist grain growers to optimise their crop potential. A Soil Water tool and a Potential Yield calculator have been added to the department’s website, while the Rainfall to Date calculator has been refined. Research officer Fiona Evans said the new additions would assist WA growers to tailor the tools to individual paddocks. “These tools draw on rainfall information from 440 department and Bureau of Meteorology weather stations around the state to provide valuable, localised information to assist growers’ crop management decisions during the growing season,” Fiona said. The new Soil Water tool models how rainfall moves through the layers of different soil types to identify how much water is available for plant roots to take up. The Rainfall to Date tool has been enhanced so growers can select the beginning and end of the season to better determine available soil water for crop use. The Potential Yield calculator combines weather data from the department and Bureau of Meteorology’s weather stations with historical decile finishes to produce the maximum yield crop potential. However, the calculator does not take into account any other potential crop constraints, such as pests and diseases or soil characteristics. Fiona said the tools were easy to use and the information inputs required were straightforward.

“As these tools are forecasting models, the information will become more accurate as the season progresses and more rainfall and climate data is accumulated,” she said. “For example, with the Soil Water tool, the timing and intensity of rainfall events during the season will significantly influence the crop biomass and yield as the season progresses. Growers would be wise to regularly revisit these tools during the growing season,” Fiona explained. All the tools are designed to be used in conjunction with the department's other online tools to provide growers with a package of information from which to make crucial paddock management decisions, such as herbicide, fertiliser and pesticide inputs. Research officer David Ferris said the user-friendly tools were available now to assist growers to make time of sowing decisions. “Knowledge of soil water status and the projected season outlook helps reduce exposure to risk by informing growers about available soil moisture and impending rainfall to get crops out of the ground and support plant growth,” David said. “These tools will also give growers more confidence in making decisions about fertiliser and matching inputs to potential plant growth, based on reliable soil moisture levels for different soil types and projected rainfall throughout the season,” he added. The department’s seasonal climate information includes rainfall forecast maps that are updated monthly during the growing season, as well as soil water, potential yield and frost risk maps. The new tools have been generated as part of the department’s eConnected Grainbelt project, made possible by Royalties for Regions.

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MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING ENCOURAGES TWO-WAY FLOW OF WATER EXPERTISE management in drought, groundwater quality management, urban water management, servicing the needs of small and remote communities, as well as opportunities presented by new technologies for efficient water use for irrigation, desalination, storm water harvesting, water reuse and recycling.

Australia has renewed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on water cooperation with the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), so both agencies can continue to benefit from collaboration and knowledge sharing on water issues. Head of the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources Water Division, Tony Slatyer, said the MoU provided a platform for cooperation and collaboration on a range of water management and policy issues.

“We look forward to continuing to work with the US EPA to share learnings and experiences on these important issues,” he concluded. The MOU will be implemented through an agreed work program being developed by the US EPA and the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources, in consultation with other government organisations, including the Murray–Darling Basin Authority, Department of the Environment, the Bureau of Meteorology, Geoscience Australia and the CSIRO.

“Australia and the US face many of the same challenges when it comes to water management,” Tony said. “For example, we are both working to manage issues such as drought, a variable climate, governance of cross-border water systems, the need for new infrastructure to sustain economic and growth, and the need to use limited water resources in a way that achieves economic, social and environmental benefits,” he explained. “We have a lot to gain from sharing our collective knowledge, experiences and insights into water issues, and in recent years our two agencies have been building a collaborative relationship and engaging in a productive dialogue on policy and technical issues,” Tony added. Tony explained that the MoU will focus on sharing information and experiences on water systems governance, water

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PROTECTING LIVESTOCK FROM A TOXIC NATIVE LEGUME DR GABRIELE NETZEL HAS WON A PRESTIGIOUS EARLY CAREER ADVANCE QUEENSLAND RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP TO HELP PROTECT LIVESTOCK AGAINST BIRDSVILLE INDIGO, INDIGOFERA LINNAEI, A NATIVE LEGUME FOUND WIDELY IN PASTURES ACROSS MUCH OF CENTRAL AND NORTHERN AUSTRALIA. Dr Netzel is from the Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI), a partnership between The University of Queensland and the Queensland Government. She said the plant is toxic to horses when eaten, is also potentially toxic to cattle and sheep, and may cause liver damage and weight loss to these animals, as well as miscarriage and stillbirths. Dr Netzel will work with her industry team to find a bacterial probiotic (inoculum) that prevents livestock absorbing the toxin. Dr Netzel’s industry partner is the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) and she will spend a portion of her fellowship working with DAF scientist and QAAFI Adjunct, Ms Diane Ouwerkerk, as well as rumen ecology scientists to advance this research. “Birdsville Indigo is extremely palatable to cattle and sheep and found widely across Australia, and so the effects on the livestock industry could be quite significant. When cattle eat Birsdville Indigo, indospicine, the specific amino acid contained in the plant, accumulates in the animal over time, building up to toxic levels,” Dr Netzel said.

“In early trials we have discovered that certain bacteria can actually protect cattle by fermentation in a cow’s rumen fluids, enabling the indospicine to break down into smaller molecules that are not toxic,” she added.

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“The inoculum could be administered to cattle in the field, thus reducing liver damage, weight loss, miscarriages and stillbirths that may be caused by indospicine.” Dr Gabriele Netzel “There are several parts to my research project. The first is to identify the specific bacteria that is responsible for breaking down the indospicine, and then to create an environment to grow the bacteria in stable conditions,” she went to explain. The final part of Dr Netzel’s project is to create a bacterial-based treatment, similar to a probiotic, called an inoculum. “The inoculum could be administered to cattle in the field, thus reducing liver damage, weight loss, miscarriages and stillbirths that may be caused by indospicine,” she said. Dr Netzel said that having an inoculum readily available to Queensland graziers has the potential to improve their cattle productivity through improved weight gain and reduced calf losses. Indigofera species are widely found in grazing pastures across tropical areas in Australia, Africa, Asia and the Americas, and the inoculum has the potential for a broader reach. Dr Netzel said she was thrilled to be awarded the Fellowship. “This project would not have been possible without the Fellowship and it was an honour to receive it,” she said. The project is jointly supported by DAF and the University of Queensland.

VEGETABLE INDUSTRY GROWING TO NEW HEIGHTS BY 2020 The economic value of the vegetable industry is projected to grow significantly, with recently published data by the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) indicating that the gross value of the vegetable industry will reach $4.2 billion by 2020-21. The projected growth is outlined in the Agricultural Commodities report for the March 2016 quarter. The report states that the 2013-14 gross value of vegetable production of $3.6 billion will expand in the next five years due to increases in both export and domestic markets. “The projected growth of the vegetable industry is good news for the national economy, as the vegetable industry is a significant contributor to Australian agriculture,” said AUSVEG spokesperson, Shaun Lindhe. AUSVEG is the leading horticultural body representing over 9,000 Australian vegetable and potato growers. Shaun said the projected increase in the gross value of the vegetable industry is a positive indicator for growers, so long as this increased value translates to greater returns at the farm-gate. “Managing costs, diversifying into export markets and continuing to look at potential business efficiencies will be extremely important to ensure that the broader industry can remain profitable long-term,” he explained.

support a projected rise in the value of horticultural exports over the medium term. Exports in the Australian vegetable industry are projected to contribute to its increased value, with the gross value set to rise to a nominal value of $396 million by 2020-21, up from $270 million in 2013-14. “Australia’s vegetables are highly sought after, with growing middle class populations in Asia and projected growth in the food sector in the UAE stimulating increased demand for a greater variety of Australian vegetables,” said Shaun. “Australia has a reputation as a world-leading producer of vegetables, and local growers can use this reputation to access international markets to sell their produce and increase the value of the entire industry. Recently signed Free Trade Agreements with South Korea and Japan should also assist Australian growers to increase vegetable exports over time,” he concluded.

The projected growth is partly based on the assumption that the Australian dollar will remain relatively weak, which is expected to

NEW RESEARCH TO GUARD NATURAL POTATO PEST PATHWAYS INTO AUSTRALIA Researchers are working closely with the Australian potato industry to investigate the potential for the highly destructive Tomato-potato psyllid (TPP) to enter Australia using natural pathways.

The three-year project will work with specific horticulture industries to focus on natural dispersal pathways from New Zealand to Australia, Papua New Guinea to Australia and Indonesia to northwest Western Australia.

The research is part of a Plant Biosecurity Cooperative Research Centre project, which will review current surveillance strategies along three natural dispersal pathways around Australia. These pathways can be formed through standard wind trajectories, or severe weather events such as cyclones.

“Potato growers based in south-east Australia are encouraged to work with the researchers to explain their current surveillance methods for TPP and ultimately contribute to the development of a more effective method of surveillance for this pest,” said Dimi.

AUSVEG is the leading horticultural body representing over 9,000 Australian vegetable and potato growers. AUSVEG spokesperson, Dimi Kyriakou, said it’s an important project for Australia’s potato growers, as they can get involved in this highly practical research and share their experiences of keeping TPP at bay. “The threat of TPP entering Australian production areas is highly significant as it is not yet present in Australia. This pest often carries the bacteria that causes Zebra chip, a disease that can significantly reduce the yield and health of potato crops and render potatoes unsaleable,” said Dimi. “AUSVEG has long raised concerns about the risk of Zebra chip disease entering Australia and it’s important for growers to avoid becoming complacent about this potential threat,” she added. 30

“The Zebra chip complex has affected the New Zealand potato industry since 2006 and it has left growers to deal with millions of dollars’ worth of damage to their industry. This is certainly not a scenario we want to see replicated in Australia,” she added. “This research project is vitally important for the Australian potato industry to remain proactive and vigilant about the possibility of TPP entering Australia using natural pathways,” concluded Dimi.

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INNOVATIVE, NEW HERBICIDE ACTIVE OFFERS WIDE VARIETY OF BENEFITS An innovative, new, low-dose growth regulator herbicide for the control of broadleaf weeds in multiple crops is already making an impression amongst the agronomy community. Launched in Australia last year in Paradigm™ and ForageMax™ herbicides, new Arylex™ active was discovered by and is proprietary to Dow AgroSciences. Arylex is the first member of a new structural class of synthetic auxin herbicides called Arylpicolinates, mode of action Group I. Arylex provides selectivity to crops and a unique spectrum of selective, post-emergence control of annual broadleaf weeds, and some activity on certain perennial weed species. Symptoms occur within a few hours and are typical of growth regulators. Justin Tidd is an agronomist in southern New South Wales. He reported, “Our first observation on the day following the spray was that it was much faster. We could already see twisting and curling of the leaf edges.” “It was a very fast response and provided a quicker and more complete kill compared to our standard. That early speed of breakdown and plant decay is probably the real benefit of Paradigm,” added Justin. Flexibility is another key driver for the success of Arylex. Paradigm for example, has exceptional compatibility with a range of other herbicides, insecticides, fungicides and nutrients, and has been widely used in a huge number of tank mix scenarios. Dan Dixon is cereal marketing manager for Dow AgroSciences. He said, “We haven’t heard of any tank mix incompatibility issues as yet, and the agronomy network certainly tested it out in the launch year!” Post-emergence use in cereals needs just 5 grams of active per hectare whilst 10 g/ha is needed for weed control in forage brassica crops. “This low use rate has tremendous benefits to users, with less and smaller packs for easier handling, transport and storage, and for the environment,” Dan outlined.

Arylex rapidly degrades in soil and plant residues, and generally does not persist long enough to impact rotational crops in the following season. This rapid breakdown allows growers rotation flexibility, with plantback to most cereals being as short as a week. In addition, degradation within cereals is rapid, preventing the accumulation of herbicide residues in straw.

“Rotational flexibility can be critical for growers, with global market pricing for many commodities becoming more volatile. Therefore growers want to be able to take advantage of good prices when they can” added Dan. “There are some products on the market that can restrict crop choices for months and even years after application, depending on management and conditions. With this in mind, we are evolving the Arylex product offerings to include even more flexible rotational options and reduce the complexity involved in making herbicide choices,” he explained further. One of the new products with a forecast launch for 2017, Pixxaro™ herbicide with Arylex active, will be trialled under an APVMA permit in 2016, to allow the agronomic community to test the product in their environment. “We are excited about the benefits that Pixxaro will offer growers and their advisors. Having new actives to fit into a market is an exciting time and the agronomy network is really getting behind the Arylex concepts”, said Dan. Pixxaro will be the first product to be evaluated under Dow AgroSciences’ Field Forward demonstration programme. “The Field Forward program offers growers and their advisors valuable experience with technology as products move through the regulatory process and it gets us a step closer to the farmer at a critical time in our planning processes,” Dan added. “Not only are we able to offer valuable technology experiences to farmers, but we also gain critical product feedback,” he concluded.

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THE AUSTRALIAN AGRONOMIST WINTER

NEW APP TO ASSESS POWDERY MILDEW ON GRAPES Visual assessment of the grape and wine sector’s most costly disease, powdery mildew, will be easier with a new, free smartphone app developed by University of Adelaide researchers and collaborators. The recently released iPhone/iPad and Android app, PMapp, will help grape growers and wineries make informed decisions about the quality and price of grapes. The development of PMapp has been supported by Wine Australia as part of a wider research project seeking to establish objective measures for quantifying powdery mildew. The app development has also taken place in close consultation with a project reference group of viticulturists, wineries, independent assessors and researchers. “Powdery mildew is a serious disease of grapevines worldwide and, in Australia, has an estimated annual cost of $76 million through yield loss and the cost of control,” says project leader Professor Eileen Scott, Professor of Plant Pathology in the University’s School of Agriculture, Food and Wine. “It causes serious quality issues with bad flavours and aromas in wine and we’ve seen that with small amounts of the surface area of Chardonnay bunches affected by powdery mildew there is an oily ‘mouth-feel’ in the resulting wine,” said Professor Scott. “The wine sector therefore has a very low tolerance of powdery mildew on grapes with downgrading at 3–6% or rejection when disease is more severe. This is a costly disease for the grape

and wine community. But powdery mildew is hard to assess. The disease is ubiquitous, but symptoms can be hard to see, or easily confused with dust or spray residue. PMapp is a simple tool that facilitates efficient assessment and recording of the severity and incidence of powdery mildew in the vineyard,” she explained. Dr Liz Waters, Wine Australia Research Development and Extension Portfolio Manager, said tools such as PMapp help support decision making to build grape and wine excellence in the Australian sector. “The ultimate aim of research and development in this area is to develop objective analytical methods to assess powdery mildew infection levels. Although visual assessment is subjective, this new app will facilitate these assessments and enable efficient and cost-effective vineyard practices,” said Dr Waters. PMapp allows the user to quickly assess visually the severity of powdery mildew on each bunch of grapes (an estimation of the percentage of the surface area of the bunch covered) by matching it with a computer generated image. The app calculates the proportion of bunches affected (the disease incidence) and of surface area affected (severity) and reports the data in a spreadsheet for subsequent analysis. A key reference and browser of images built into the app also help the user familiarise themselves with various disease patterns and severities. A website to support the app is currently being developed. The PMapp is now available on Apple’s App Store or Google Play.

INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY FOR FASTER AVOCADOS Dr Alice Hayward has won a prestigious mid-career Advance Queensland Research Fellowship, to develop the world-first MICROpropagator – a non-GM, non-toxic, root-inducing formula to speed up the root production of woody crops such as avocados. Dr Hayward’s work has been developed in the Mitter Lab at QAAFI, a partnership between the Queensland Government and The University of Queensland, and involves developing 'biomolecules' to induce root production for propagation of avocado cuttings. "It can currently take 18 months to produce a clonal avocado plant from a cutting, and a major reason for this is the notoriously low success rate of root production on cuttings, which severely restricts industry growth," Dr Hayward said.

"If successful, this innovation could boost Queenslands agriculture industry by enabling more efficient production of elite varieties." Avocado is a high-value subtropical crop in Queensland, with huge potential for rapid industry expansion. However, root induction on cuttings of avocado and other woody species is difficult. Rooting cuttings from elite trees is essential for clonal propagation of subtropical woody crops. Clonal propagation can support higher yields and allow industry uptake of the best Queensland-bred varieties.

Queensland is in a unique position to both pioneer and reap rewards from innovation in subtropical agriculture. This project will develop a MICROpropagator, a high-tech, non-toxic, root-inducing formula to improve clonal propagation of woody crops. The MICROpropagator will be made of newly discovered molecules in plants that control root production. It will be tested in an optimised tissue-culture propagation pipeline for avocado, for application to industry-partner businesses. Novel, UQ-invented nanoparticles will be trialed to improve shelflife and delivery of MICROpropagator molecules to industry. MICROpropagator applies innovative biotechnology and nanotechnology to develop a world-first formulation for root induction. This could enable rapid, high-throughput production of our elite varieties, helping to support Queensland’s goal to double agricultural production by 2040. Moreover, the biomolecule delivery platform could be designed to target other limitations in crops; transforming agricultural production globally. This work is supported by the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) and The University of Queensland. Dr Hayward’s industry partners are DAF, Delroy Orchards, Jasper Farms and Anderson Horticulture Pty Ltd. Dr Hayward will spend a portion of her fellowship working with DAF scientist Dr Lindy Coates. The Advance Queensland Research Fellowships assist in attracting and keeping the best and brightest research minds in Queensland and build Queensland’s capacity to conduct innovative research and development.

THE AUSTRALIAN AGRONOMIST WINTER

$160K BOOST FOR BANANA INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT Horticulture Innovation Australia (Hort Innovation) has invested $160,000 over three years to support the development of future industry leaders in the Australian banana industry though participation in the Nuffield Australia Farming Scholars program. John Lloyd is Chief Executive Officer of Hort Innovation. He said banana growers serve one of the largest fruit growing sectors in Australia, and are vital economic contributors to rural communities in banana growing areas. “It is important that the banana industry maintains a consistent and quality supply of Australian bananas to meet consumer demand while continuing to increase its productivity gains,” John said. “Through investment in the Nuffield Australia Scholarship program, Hort Innovation will help to support the Australian banana industry by identifying future leaders and providing them with the opportunity to identify world best-practice research, development and management techniques, with the view of applying them here in Australia,” he explained. Far north Queensland organic banana farmer Matthew Abbott, a 2016 scholar, will study organic farming techniques, with a particular focus on sustainable practices. He will also look at the various ways global industries manage diseases such as fusarium (TR4), strategies for marketing bananas, category diversification and export markets. A further two scholars will be supported in 2017 and 2018.

Matthew met the cohort of 2016 Nuffield Scholars from across the world at the Contemporary Scholars Conference, held in Cavan, Ireland, from March 5–12, where there was a robust exchange of ideas and experiences, and a network of people who are at the cutting edge of primary industries. He will also be participating in a Global Focus Program, a sixweek group study tour across Asia, Europe, North and South America where he will investigate organic farming, looking at banana varieties and systems to manage Panama disease. On return, all scholars produce a formal written report and present to their peers at the annual Nuffield Australia National Conference. Using levy payer funds that are matched by the Australian Government, Hort Innovation is also supporting several other Nuffield scholars who are undertaking studies across a broad range of horticultural sectors including cut flowers, fruit and vegetables. For more details on the Nuffield scholarships, go to the Nuffield Australia Farming Scholars website. Applications for the 2017 scholarships open on April 1 and close on June 30.

WASPS BITE BACK A national project under the lead of NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) entomologist, Jianhua Mo, aims to manage the devastating citrus gall wasp (CGW) by targeting the pest with its natural enemies, new generation pesticides and environmentallyfriendly repellents. Based at the Yanco Agricultural Institute, Dr Mo said CGW has recently emerged as a major pest in southern citrus crops, infesting orchards in the Sunraysia, Riverland and Riverina to impact on plant vigour, fruit size and citrus yields. “We’re building on results from a pilot study in the Sunraysia, which developed a timing guide to target vulnerable stages of the pest, identified an alternative chemical treatment using paraffinic oil and confirmed the establishment of two native parasitic wasps which attack CGW,” Dr Mo said. “Studies in Queensland, where CGW and their natural enemies originated, showed that when parasitic wasp populations are high, up to 90 percent of gall wasp larvae can be parasitised. The new project aims to develop national integrated pest management (IPM) strategies based on enhanced biological control, repellent sprays, new chemical options compatible with IPM, and a robust forecasting tool to guide spray timing and releases of parasitic wasps,” Dr Mo explained. “Two native parasitic wasps, Megastigmus brevivalvus and M. trisulcus, are valuable natural resources in our quest to manage the pest. With both species now established, we are identifying parasitic wasp hotspots to conserve their populations in southern citrus regions, and releasing parasitic wasps in new CGW

incursion areas to boost their effects in managing the pest,” he added. Dr Mo said studies are currently under way to develop best management practices for wasp releases and improved spray control and repellent options. “It’s important to manage the pest in an environmentally-friendly way that allows growers to produce healthy citrus crops and meet consumer demand,” Dr Mo said. Funded by DPI and Horticulture Innovation Australia (Hort Innovation), the CGW management project brings South Australia’s Fruit Doctors and Department of Agriculture and Food Western Australia on board as research partners. The project which is due to run until 2018 Hort Innovation chief executive officer, John Lloyd, said the project has far reaching benefits. “Using grower levies, the national program is working with citrus growers to raise awareness of CGW biology, damage and management and deliver the tools industry needs to better manage the pest,” John said.

INNOVATION BACK ON THE AGENDA AT VEG GROWER SEMINAR Futuristic technologies and the latest advances in agricultural innovation will be on the agenda as world-leading experts address Australian vegetable growers at the 2016 Global Innovations in Horticulture Seminar, to be held on the Gold Coast on 23 June. American researcher and science author Jon Entine, expert in genetic modification, will headline a stellar line up of speakers that will inspire over 100 Australian vegetable growers to embrace innovation as the industry moves towards increased mechanisation and more creative ways to reduce costs and increase profitability. “AUSVEG is pleased to once again host the world’s leading agricultural R&D experts to show Aussie growers the ways that innovations in technology and production methods can boost the profitability, productivity and sustainability of their operations,” said AUSVEG spokesperson Shaun Lindhe. AUSVEG is the leading horticultural body representing 9,000 Australian vegetable and potato growers. “It is particularly exciting to have Jon Entine, an international expert on the topic of genetic modification, address our growers. His presentation is expected to inspire our growers to evaluate the local industry and think about how the industry can move into the future,” said Shaun.

The Seminar aims to educate Australian growers on the innovations they can use on-farm, and builds on a highly successful series of annual seminars facilitated by AUSVEG to help with the development of the Australian vegetable industry and to ensure it remains at the pinnacle of global vegetable production. “As global agriculture evolves, Australian growers need to have the information at hand to keep up with the rise in technical advancements, including increased automation and mechanisation. This will in-turn help growers increase export markets, create more jobs and boost our economy,” said Shaun. “If the Australian vegetable industry can learn from these innovators in agriculture, it will help to boost on-farm productivity, and increase the profitability of their farms, which will ultimately benefit rural communities, and the entire country,” he explained. The 2016 Global Innovations in Horticulture Seminar will be held at the RACV Royal Pines Resort on the Gold Coast, and aims to inform Australian growers of the benefits that new and improved agricultural technology can have on-farm. Funded places are available for levy-paying vegetable growers to attend this event. For more information please contact AUSVEG on (03) 9882 0277, or info@ausveg.com.au.

ORGANIC AUSSIE BEETROOT FEEDING MIDDLE EASTERN RACEHORSES An Australian beetroot grower is conducting new business by selling organic beetroot to feed the Crown Prince of Dubai’s racehorses. “This business deal was initiated during a recent levy-funded export mission to the World of Perishables trade show in Dubai, where Australian vegetable growers showcased their high quality produce to Middle Eastern and Asian buyers,” said AUSVEG National Manager – Export Development Michael Coote. AUSVEG is the leading horticultural body representing more than 9,000 Australian vegetable and potato growers. “The first shipment left Australian shores in January, and is an example of the unique business opportunities available in international markets outside the usual retail and food service sectors,” said Michael. Over the past couple of years AUSVEG has been developing a strong programme in the area of export market development, introducing around 150 supermarket and wholesale buyers to Australian growers and also organising trade missions made up of growers to trade events across Asia and the Middle East. “Participation at industry trade events is an important step for growers who are exporting or looking to begin exporting to build vital networks with importers looking for high quality Australian vegetables,” said Michael. “Given that the value of Australian vegetable exports has increased by over five per cent in the past 36

year to over $270 million, stories of growers who are expanding their markets through export are an encouraging sign that the industry has a strong future both in Australia and abroad,” he added. Sean Croft from Arahura Farms in Victoria, the organic beetroot grower who made the lucrative business deal following his participation on the Dubai mission, said the opportunity to export his organic beetroots to the Crown Prince of Dubai would be vital to increasing the profitability of his business. “This is an exciting opportunity for our business and we will increase production on our farm. It is hard for growers to expand their businesses solely through the domestic market, so looking abroad to export markets is an important opportunity for growers and the industry to increase profitability,” said Sean. “Importers and consumers in these markets have increasing levels of disposable income, and are demanding high quality vegetables. Aussie produce has a strong reputation, and Australian growers are in a prime position to send their produce to these countries. AUSVEG is actively working with growers to provide the support they need to access these kinds of opportunities in the international marketplace,” he added. Vegetable industry export development activities are funded through Horticulture Innovation Australia using vegetable levy funds and matched funds from the Australian Government.

THE AUSTRALIAN AGRONOMIST WINTER

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NEW PARTNERSHIP IN ROBOTICS In an exciting development that may change the shape of Australian agriculture, Elders has partnered with SwarmFarm Robotics to develop robotic technology for use in cropping.

“This technology may prove to be the next big thing for our cropping clients, so we want to be involved from an early stage,” Graham said.

Based at Gindie in the central highlands of Queensland, SwarmFarm Robotics is commercialising the use of robots to improve productivity, lower costs and reduce environmental impacts.

“What also appeals to us is that Andrew and Jocie are farmers who understand the practicalities of farming, which gives us confidence that any new technology their company develops will be fit for purpose and tested under rigorous field and climatic conditions,” he added.

The company is the brainchild of innovative Queensland farmers, Andrew and Jocie Bate, who started looking for alternative technology as their farm equipment became bigger, wider, heavier and more costly. Andrew and Jocie run a 4,000 hectare winter and summer cropping program and a beef cattle operation in partnership with his parents, Ross and Jenny Bate. “Minimum tillage and controlled traffic farming gave us productivity gains, but we had growing concerns about resistant weeds, soil erosion and the sheer size of our gear,” Andrew said. “We needed to be more inventive and find smarter and smaller solutions, and with so much going on with robotics technology in mining and military applications, I wondered how it could be applied in agriculture,” he explained. Graham Page, Elders National Technical Services Manager, said developments like this explained why Elders was delighted to form a partnership with SwarmFarm Robotics and its founders, Andrew and Jocie Bate.

Graham said robotics technology had the potential to enhance farm efficiency and take agriculture to the next level, following on from advances in precision agriculture, minimum tillage and controlled traffic farming. “Farm management practices are coming under increasing pressure and compliance issues will become more pressing for farmers in the future,” he said. “The development of robotics has huge implications for agronomy, so our partnership with SwarmFarm Robotics will enable us to take an early lead in understanding how this technology works and how we can help our clients apply it,” Graham added. Winding back the clock five years, Andrew said their journey into robotics began by recognising that the gains from minimum tillage and controlled traffic farming had plateaued, and wondering how they would control weeds in 10 years’ time. “People talked about driverless tractors, but we weren’t looking to automate agriculture,” Andrew said.

Described as a golf cart with brains, prototypes like this from SwarmFarm Robotics could change the face of Australian agriculture.

THE AUSTRALIAN AGRONOMIST WINTER

“Our vision was to develop a whole new way of growing crops with the use of robots and turn farming on its head.” Andrew Bate

Andrew and Jocie Bate (from left) are developing innovative technology at SwarmFarm Robotics with the support of Neville Crook, business development manager, Lasitha Piyathilaka, mechatronics engineer, Campbell Newman, company chairman, and Grant Louat, mechatronics engineer.

“Our vision was to develop a whole new way of growing crops with the use of robots and turn farming on its head. We came up with some ideas, stood outside our comfort zone and starting talking to people at CSIRO, universities, the military and mining companies,” he explained. The couple formed a three-year partnership with the University of Sydney’s Australian Centre for Field Robotics and Queensland University of Technology which had only just entered the robotics field. “Typically, the universities develop technology and then look for companies to apply it, but in our case, we sought their help to take our ideas to the next stage,” Andrew said. “By the end of the project, we had enough technology to go commercial, so we set up SwarmFarm Robotics and started employing our own people about 18 months ago,” he added. While the sceptics thought it would be tough to find qualified people who wanted to work in their rural start-up business, Andrew and Jocie found the opposite. “In fact, lots of people wanted to be involved because so few companies are doing real autonomous robotic technology and that’s what really drives these people,” Andrew said. These days, SwarmFarm Robotics employs two mechatronics engineers, as well as interns and short-term contractors as required.

Neville Crook brings 30 years’ experience in agronomy, farming and farm consulting to his role in business development and Director of SwarmFarm Robotics. Andrew is keenly aware that this journey is as much about agronomy as it is robotics, with implications for farm machinery, the business and all aspects of the farm enterprise. “Imagine one or two robots or many more working together in a swarm in a paddock, killing weeds for example,” he said. “Robots are designed as the tool carriers, but the most exciting aspect is the technology they carry on board. It’s the ability of robots to slow down or stop that opens up all sorts of opportunities, not just for applying a lethal dose of herbicide or target a specific weed, but for fertilising and harvesting crops, pruning and thinning, or other mechanical operations. Instead of one size fits all, the tool carrier concept enables us to tailor the technology to your climate, your crop and your soil, right down to individual leaves, Andrew explained. It’s these possibilities which appealed to former Queensland Premier, Campbell Newman, who has a background in agribusiness and engineering and now chairs SwarmFarm’s board. “SwarmFarm has the potential to transform Australian agriculture by using swarms of small, lightweight, low cost machines that perform a variety of tasks, but we’re also determined to export this technology to the world,” he said.

TAKING THE GRASSÂ WEED PRESSURES OFF THE PYE FAMILY, OWNERS OF CALGA PTY LTD, HAVE BEEN FARMING AT COONAMBLE IN THE CENTRAL WESTERN PLAINS OF NEW SOUTH WALES SINCE THE EARLY 1900S. THE 16,134 HECTARE PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY MANAGED BY STUART DAVIDSON WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF AGRONOMIST, GRAEME CALLAGHAN.

THE AUSTRALIAN AGRONOMIST WINTER

The property presently crops 5,800 hectares of chickpeas, 4,600 hectares of wheat, 1,350 hectares of barley and 500 hectares of faba beans, with the remainder as lucerne or native pasture.

"Boxer Gold really speaks for itself. We started off with 1,000 litres, and since then, we have increased our usage to 14,000 litres last year, and we’ve committed to 15,000 litres this year,” he added.

The property has had an emerging issue with Annual Ryegrass and herbicide resistance, according to agronomist Graeme. He said, “We’d been using Trifluralin, but found it was difficult to incorporate into our cereal program with zero till.”

Rainfall within seven days of application maximises herbicide performance.

Graeme went on to explain, “We started using Boxer Gold® as a pre-emergent herbicide in a few paddocks to start with, and we had good results. Our strategy really took the pressure off the grass weeds, especially Annual Ryegrass and Wild Oats. With areas of the property developing resistance to Axial®, the switch to using Boxer Gold has enabled these areas to remain a viable part of the cereal program again.”

“Our average rainfall is 525 millimetres, however, last season we only got 325 millimetres. Despite the lower rainfall, we were able to reach higher yields with the barley crop because the rain fell at the right time for us,” Stuart said. Traditionally, Stuart has been sowing Hindmarsh, introducing La Trobe to the mix in 2015. “Last season, we sowed a total of 1,350 hectares of the Hindmarsh and La Trobe barley varieties. This season it will be 100 per cent La Trobe,” Stuart said.

Boxer Gold is a soil-applied pre-emergent herbicide from Syngenta registered for the control of Annual Ryegrass.

“Our average yield is three tonnes per hectare, but with La Trobe we were able to achieve five tonnes to the hectare. All up, we harvested 5,000 tonnes of barley, of which we held 1,800 tonnes on farm,” Stuart added.

Calga’s farm manager Stuart said he too was impressed with the results from using Boxer Gold.

La Trobe’s main appeal is its malt accreditation, resulting in pricing premiums above Hindmarsh.

“Over the years, our Annual Ryegrass numbers have fallen, because we have been able to get on top of it using Boxer Gold,” Stuart said.

“We usually grow barley for the feed market. However, this season 700 hectares will be targeted towards the malt market,” Stuart concluded.

“Our strategy really took the pressure off the grass weeds, especially Annual Ryegrass and Wild Oats.” Graeme Callaghan 41

MULTI-PRONGED APPROACH MEETS WEED CHALLENGES AT PARKES Every farming generation faces some key challenges during their chapter on the land and for Parkes grower Craig Ward, one of them has come in the form of weed management, enhanced by a switch to a continuous cropping operation back in 2006.

“We no longer use Achieve® or Topik®. Ryegrass, barley grass and silver grass have been our main problems. We have had trouble getting two cereal crops in a row and we couldn’t farm it out of the system,’’ Craig said.

Craig is the fourth generation of the Ward family, cropping 2100 hectares of the 2300 hectare ‘Mimosa’ property to wheat, barley, canola, legumes and, more recently some summer crops, with his wife Lisa and supported by workman Jeff Evans. Craig and Lisa have three children, Taylor, Lachlan and Aleisha. The farm has a long history and began in 1897 as a 375 hectare block.

Growing Roundup Ready® canola has helped in certain situations and several years ago the Wards adopted the Group K preemergent herbicide, Sakura® 850 WG.

‘Mimosa’, which comprises red loams to heavy clay country, also previously carried 6000-8000 Merinos before running a Dohne sheep flock. Craig remembers when he recognised herbicide-resistant ryegrass in a paddock in 2001, and after recently employing a conventional cropping system with a focus on post-emergent weed control sprays, Group A, particularly fop, and Group B herbicides have become less effective.

Peter, Jon and Craig discuss the various weed management strategies being implemented on the Ward’s property near Parkes.

THE AUSTRALIAN AGRONOMIST WINTER

The Wards have safely applied Sakura with Roundup®, Logran® B-Power and LV Ester 680, also to control broadleaf weeds. “The more herbicide modes of action we can apply, the better,’’ Craig said. Typically, sulphate of ammonia is also applied prior to sowing, and the Ward’s Gregory and Suntop wheat varieties are drilled at 50 kg/ha with 75 kg/ha of MAP fertiliser. They also receive top-up applications of urea. “We apply 80 kg/ha of nitrogen and 15 kg/ha of phosphorus every year,’’ Craig said. The Wards are also implementing other strategies in a multipronged approach to weed management. They try to maintain a four-year crop rotation spread by including legumes, cut hay and carry out brown manuring occasionally in problem areas, they have returned to full burning where suitable, and they fallow areas when required.

Peter said there were limited control options for black oats and many growers chose not to spray them. Peter said the black oat problem has got to a stage where farmers will leave paddocks out of cropping programs, and that brome grass was now becoming a growing concern through the area. The Wards have achieved average crop yields of 3-3.5 t/ha over the past decade. ‘Mimosa’ receives 500-600 millimetres of rainfall annually, including about 300 mm during the growing season, although conditions in the region were significantly drier last year.

Agronomist Peter Yelland, PY Agronomy, who assists the Wards, said using different herbicide modes of action and strategies was very important to help extend the weed control benefits offered by Sakura, especially since other options were limited. Summer crops have also been introduced the last two years to help manage herbicideresistant black oats. Axial® herbicide is being applied on the black oats and Lontrel® is also being sprayed for broadleaf weeds.

NEW SOLUTION FOR TREATING MULTIPLE CEREAL FUNGAL DISEASES Some growers are searching for a foliar fungicide to address the widest range of fungal diseases in wheat, barley and oats. Now there’s a new option for those looking to control all these key fungal diseases in cereals including leaf rust, stem rust, stripe rust, Septoria nodorum, yellow leaf spot and powdery mildew in just one product. New Tazer Xpert from Nufarm is a unique formulation that combines the strength of two fungicide groups. Alistair Ferrier is Segment Manager with Nufarm. He said the excellent break to the season in many grain growing regions of southern Australia meant that conditions may well favour the development of fungal diseases in the months ahead.

Launched in 2015, the dry finish to the season in most areas meant that foliar diseases were less prevalent in cereals last year, but Tazer Xpert performed well in those crops which were treated. “With better prospects shaping up for 2016, we recommend that growers seek the advice of their agronomists this season to ensure they apply the correct rates of Tazer Xpert for their crops and guide them about tank mixtures,” Alistair said. “We also recommend the use of Banjo adjuvant to maximise the performance of Tazer Xpert,” he added. Nufarm is investing in further research and development with the objective of extending the product label for Tazer Xpert with an even broader range of fungal diseases in the near future.

“Tazer Xpert is a premium cereal fungicide combining dual modes of action for resistance management and better performance with the convenience of using one product,” Alistair said. The unique formulation of Tazer Xpert is a suspension concentrate containing 80g/L azoxystrobin and 31g/L expoxiconazole to optimise disease control and ensure healthy crops of wheat, barley and oats. Developed over several years of field and laboratory work by Nufarm under Australian conditions, the new foliar fungicide offers a range of application rates from 500 mL/ha to 2 L/ha to cover different disease situations. 43

AUSSIE INVENTION LEADS TO WORLD FIRST GLUTEN-FREE BARLEY BEER

Dr Crispin Howitt and Dr Phil Larkin celebrating the launch of Pionier gluten-free beer, the first product to use CSIRO’s Kebari barley.

Thanks to an Aussie invention, the world’s first gluten-free barley beer will appear today in German supermarkets.

“It’s really exciting seeing the first product made with the malted version of our Kebari grain, we hope it’s the first of many products,” Dr Howitt said.

CSIRO’s Kebari barley has been used to make the world’s first commercially produced, full flavoured, barley-based gluten-free beer. This is especially good news for people with coeliac disease who could soon enjoy a greater variety of foods and beverages thanks to work by Australian scientists.

“We’re also working on a hulless version of Kebari which is preferable for use in a range of foods like breakfast cereals, soup, even pasta and flatbreads. These will be the first part of the next generation of gluten free products helping people with coeliac disease to increase fibre, promote bowel health and enhance nutrition in their diet,” he added.

German beer brewing company, Radeberger, has used Kebari barley to develop the barley based gluten-free beer, Pionier, the first such beer under the German Beer Purity law, Reinheitsgebot.

While Pionier beer is only available in Germany, CSIRO is continuing to explore opportunities with Australian brewers to develop a local beer using Kebari barley.

Scientists from CSIRO, with co-funding from the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC), have bred the Kebari grain, a new barley variety with ultra-low levels of hordeins, the type of gluten found in barley.

Once development of a hulless version is complete, there is a plan to work with manufacturers to bring a range of foods containing Kebari barley to Australian consumers.

Dr Crispin Howitt is CSRIO Principal Research Scientist. He said, “Using conventional breeding we’ve reduced the gluten levels to 10,000 times less than regular barley which more than meets the World Health Organisation’s recommendation for calling a grain gluten-free.” In the future, this will provide more variety for the global population, including 1 to 2 per cent of Australians, with coeliac disease and people who avoid gluten in their diet. Diets that restrict grains can be nutritionally poor, high in fat and sugar, and low in fibre.

While it is 'ultra-low' in gluten, Kebari grain cannot be called 'gluten-free' in Australia or New Zealand under the current Food Standards Code. However, the gluten level is well below 20 parts per million, the level recommended by the World Health Organisation for classification as gluten-free, so in some other countries, like Germany, products made with Kebari barley can be classified as gluten free. The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research and The Royal Melbourne Hospital were involved in the early stages of the ultra-low gluten barley project.

THE AUSTRALIAN AGRONOMIST WINTER

CROPPA CREEK GROWER SAYS HE HAS FOUND 'THE ONE' Doug and Dan Makim of Graigue Farming Partnership at Croppa Creek in northern New South Wales, believe they have found ‘the one’, speaking of the new high yielding barley variety Rosalind. Traditionally, they grow 850 hectares of barley varieties Oxford and Grout on their properties. “We are always on the lookout for better performing feed barley varieties that will suit our cropping program, so we decided to trial a tonne of Rosalind for better yield,” Dan said. Graigue Farming Partnership has hosted InterGrain’s barley varietal selection trials for the past five year, so Doug and Dan have had the opportunity to preview varieties before commercial release.

“We had high expectations for Rosalind after seeing it perform well in the trials. It did not disappoint. I was very impressed by the high yield we got of 6.1 tonnes per hectare last season,” Dan said. New Rosalind is a feed barley. It was the highest yielding barley variety nationally in the 2014, and is so far the highest in the 2015 National Variety Trail (NVT) results, with yields exceeding the national benchmark variety Hindmarsh.

Breeder, Dr David Tabah, said Rosalind had been developed as an alternative to varieties including Commander, Grout, Shepherd, Oxford, Compass and Granger, and to meet grower demand for yield stability across a range of environmental and seasonal conditions. Dan traditionally sows in May and harvests late October. “We had decent rainfall in 2015, with 50 millimetres falling towards the end of July, which really helped. We had a dry finish and wrapped up harvest in just over three weeks,” he said. “We found Rosalind a breeze to harvest. Rosalind produced more straw per hectare than any of the other varieties we’ve grown before. The crop had very even head height with no lodging. It really made harvest a lot easier and faster compared to harvesting Oxford or Grout. We were able to harvest Rosalind at 9 kilometres per hour, which was great,” Dan explained. Dan said that they were impressed with Rosalind’s strike, vigour and tillering capacity compared to our other varieties, and that it definitely helped to increase the crop’s yield potential. He said, “It also had a good grain size and test weight, with screenings at one per cent, which was very pleasing.” “We will be replacing Grout with Rosalind in our cropping program. If the outlook is dry this season, it makes sense for us to plant 100 per cent Rosalind as it responds better in our area,” he concluded.

WHEAT POWDERY MILDEW MUTATIONS FOUND IN EASTERN STATES Researchers of the national Centre for Crop and Disease Management (CCDM) have recently observed the first signs of mutations that could lead to fungicide resistance issues in wheat powdery mildew in Australia. The CCDM, which is co-funded by Curtin University and the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC), has detected a mutation, Y136F, in wheat powdery mildew isolates from New South Wales and Tasmania that could see a reduction in the control of the disease by triazole fungicides. Madeline Tucker, of CCDM’s Fungicide Resistance Group, was part of the research team that first discovered barley powdery mildew resistance in Western Australia in 2009. Since wheat powdery mildew and barley powdery mildew pathogens are genetically very similar, Madeleine said the team have been able to use their knowledge on the development of barley powdery mildew resistance to help growers manage the development of wheat powdery mildew resistance. “Having looked at the progression of fungicide resistance in the barley powdery mildew population in WA, we now know that it’s the combination of two mutations occurring in the same powdery mildew organism that results in significant resistance effects in the field,” Madeline said. “The first mutation, referred to as the Y136F mutation, is quite harmless. However we have found it acts as a ‘gateway’ to the second mutation, S509T, which is much more serious. The combination of both mutations presents clear signs of fungicide resistance to tebuconazole, as well as possible control issues with triadimefon and flutriafol. We have observed the first Y136F

mutation in wheat powdery mildew, and are concerned that the second S509T mutation may now have the gateway it needs to also occur,” Madeleine explained. “While this recent finding of the Y136F mutation in wheat powdery mildew is not good news, it has been discovered early and this gives growers the chance to act early,” she added. Madeline explained the only way to slow down the occurrence of resistance mutations in wheat powdery mildew is to decrease selection for those mutations.

“Growers need to continue to be mindful of how they use fungicides and stick to integrated disease management strategies that do not depend solely on fungicides, such as using disease resistant crop varieties, crop rotations, stubble management and green bridge control,” Madeline outlined. “Using fungicides with the same mode of action repetitively and planting wheat varieties susceptible to disease is a sure recipe for the build-up of fungicide resistance. Fungicide use does not cause resistance mutations, however its incorrect use can increase selection for resistance mutations,” she explained. CCDM expects this coming season to be another big year for wheat powdery mildew, particularly in WA with so much infected stubble carryover from last year.

PRACTICAL NEW TECHNOLOGY FOR PEST-FREE GRAIN The Board of the Plant Biosecurity Cooperative Research Centre (PBCRC) has recently toured grain growing properties in the Mingenew region of Western Australia to see PBCRC stored grain research in action, as part of regular visits with CRC participants.

Annual PBCRC surveys have been monitoring the number of insects Australia-wide with resistance to phosphine, the industry standard fumigant.

Sheila Charlesworth is Chief Executive of the grower-based Mingenew-Irwin Group. She said the group has have been working with the Plant Biosecurity CRC on new ways to manage insect pests in stored grain for several years.

The results have driven research into alternative control methods. “One of the alternatives is nitrogen technology, which gives growers the ability to control pests in grain silos with low oxygen environments, a technique proving to be both cost-effective and chemical-free,” said Dr Robinson.

“New, chemical-free methods of controlling pests in grain storage silos are vital for growers’ livelihoods, not to mention protecting the ‘no live insect’ reputation of Australia’s $9 billion grain exports,” Sheila said.

“Aeration of grain silos is another useful tool for growers, as lower temperatures slow insect growth and gives them a chance to get on top of potential infestations, while also reducing insect resistance and increasing seed viability,” he added.

Market access for Australia’s export grains is a major consideration of PBCRC’s Smart biosecurity science initiative, which is leading the development of a long-term model for Australian plant biosecurity research.

The Plant Biosecurity CRC Board holds meetings around Australia, taking the opportunity to see CRC research in the field and talk to those benefiting.

Dr Michael Robinson is CEO of PBCRC. He said PBCRC researchers are developing several approaches to stored grain protection. “Working with growers and industry gives us the opportunity to test them in the real world,” he added.

“Seeing practical research in action on the farm is immensely satisfying for the Board,” said Board Chairman Dr Martin Barlass. “Partnering with industry speeds the research process, but also ensures it is both relevant and practical for growers,” he concluded.

THE AUSTRALIAN AGRONOMIST WINTER

HARD WORK PAYS OFF FOR COMPETITION WINNER Winning the Suncorp Bank/Agricultural Societies Council of NSW Dryland Field Wheat Competition for the second time in three years proves the Browning family of Narromine must be doing something right. The family from “Narramine Station” were presented with the overall state award for their crop of EGA Gregory wheat in January after securing the northern zone in November. In 2013, the Browning and EGA Gregory combination also proved unbeatable, taking out the northern zone and state top crop honours. Competition judge and Young agronomist Paul Parker estimated their 2015 crop to yield seven tonnes per hectare at judging in early-November. Narramine Station owner Jodi Browning said most of the season was problem-free, with 425mm of in-crop rain, but a dry spell in September and wild weather in November threw them off. “The crop was hit with a wind storm in November and a total of 120mm just before being harvested on November 16,” she said. “It resulted in a large proportion of the crop falling over, but the crop still had an actual yield of 6.64t/ha, a test weight average of 83, screenings of 3.4 per cent and protein average of 12.9pc, which is H2.”

She planted the wheat on May 5 with a new Boss planter on 33 centimetre row spacing and using tines. The seed was treated with Raxil and sown with 75kg/ha of MAP and sprayed with Gramoxane and Trifluren before the sowing rig. On June 12, 100kg/ha of urea was applied. Jodi’s experience growing the variety has come a long way in nine years. “We first planted Gregory in 2007 as a production crop, harvesting a dryland yield of 3.6t/ha and an irrigated block at 8.6t/ha. It’s our main variety now until we find a replacement. We’ll plant about 1200ha this year,” Jodi said. The wins have been humbling for Jodi and her four children, who have persisted to carry on with the big picture and continue the farming legacy created by husband and father Glenn, who passed away in 2012. “The children are already involved in the farm business and it is very much a family affair. I work closely with our farm manager Shannon Thomas, agronomist Campbell Muldoon and eldest child Billy, to keep the high benchmark that Glenn set,” Jodi said. “Communication among employees is ranked as a high priority and their ideas and inputs are valued,” she added.

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KEY TOOLS HELP TO REDUCE WEED PRESSURES AT TRANGIE Long fallow and select use of newer herbicide modes of action are playing major roles among a suite of tools helping to reduce weed pressures at the Flinn family’s farming enterprise near Trangie in New South Wales. Kevin and Jill Flinn, together with their son Richard and his wife Emma, and daughter Johanna and son-in-law Will Leader, operate the 3600 hectare ‘Iona’ property, which includes a 1000 hectare separate block acquired about 10 years ago, and 400 hectares of irrigation on another block. On land comprising from heavy black clays through to light country, they grow wheat, barley, oats, canola, chickpeas and Lucerne, and run about 1000 Wiltipoll ewes and 350 Poll Shorthorn cows. Kevin said weed pressures, including herbicide resistant weeds, were more prominent on the 1000 hectare block and on the main farm, where there had been high use of Group A and B herbicides after applying trifluralin pre-sowing. Growing oats for grazing only had been another contributor to the weed populations. Annual ryegrass, black oats, phalaris and barley grass are some of the major problem weeds, while others include doublegee, blue heliotrope, fleabane and umbrella grass. Crop rotations vary, but can follow a program of canola-wheatwheat-chickpeas-wheat-fallow.

Containing the active ingredient, pyroxasulfone, Sakura controls annual ryegrass, barley grass, silver grass, annual phalaris and toad rush, and also suppresses certain grass weeds in wheat (not durum wheat), triticale, chickpeas, field peas and lupins. It has also recently been registered for use in lentils. The family generally sows into moisture, with the Sakura incorporated via their 12-metre Flexi-Coil bar set on 30 cm tyne spacings with knife points and press wheels. Their black soils can be sown dry, while rainfall has been received soon after seeding to assist herbicide activity. “In our first year with Sakura, we applied it in the worst area for grasses in a paddock and it brought it back to the rest of the paddock,’’ Kevin said. “We are also getting reasonable results on black oats with very good suppression,” he added. “The flexibility with Sakura is really helpful. We have sprayed Sakura, gone and planted other areas with Treflan® and then went back to the Sakura paddock. It is also good for standing stubbles and on heavy stubble loads, like back-to-back wheat stubble,’’ Kevin explained. He said they planned to use Sakura on areas within paddocks when needed, as they “don’t want to develop weeds resistant to Sakura.”

Ryan Pratten, of Muldoon Pratten Ag Consulting, who Kevin said was one of the “most important cogs in the wheel’’ of the family’s farming operation, said there was now a strong focus on fallow, including long fallowing every six to eight years, which involved cultivating, ripping and then minimum tillage.

“We haven’t relied on Treflan a lot and so it is still good for us here. We use Treflan for fallow, on the bare soil, as well as on stubbles,” Kevin said.

“Fallow has been very successful for total production and weed control, and it gives country a break. It helps drought-proof the business,’’ Ryan said.

“It’s compatibility and crop safety in being used with a grass herbicide in one pass is excellent and it has provided good weed control,’’ Ryan said.

Weed populations were increasing to up to 500 per square metre, and were significantly limiting production before the Flinns also switched to using the Group K pre-emergent herbicide, Sakura® 850 WG.

To further aid weed management, the Flinns are also growing triazine-tolerant canola, burning broadleaf stubble windrows, and baling stubbles, although Ryan said burning was only carried out as a last resort.

During the season, the post-emergent broadleaf herbicide, Precept®, is proving to be effective.

Ryan Pratten, of Muldoon Pratten Ag Consulting, and Bayer Territory Sales Manager Jon Bennett inspect a paddock with good weed control from the application of Sakura herbicide with Trangie growers Richard and Kevin Flinn. 48

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EVOLVING NEW WEAPONS AGAINST AGRICULTURAL PESTS Groundbreaking Research Demonstrates Ability To Generate Novel Proteins, Potential To Develop New Solutions For Farmers That Can Mitigate Impact Of Insects And Disease Research published today is poised to deliver never-before-seen breakthroughs for the role of protein science in agriculture and lead to new innovations for farmers and society. The advance, the application of PACE (phage-assisted continuous evolution) technology to generate novel insect control traits for crops, demonstrates the ability to optimise proteins to convey specific benefits to plants or to specifically target pests and pathogens of plants – paving the way to target pests that have developed resistance to prior agriculture solutions. Researchers at Monsanto Company and Harvard University have published the results of a recent study using PACE technology in Nature. The manuscript titled 'Continuous evolution of Bacillus thuringiensis toxins overcomes insect resistance', showcases how the new application of protein science can be practically applied to agriculture. Co-authors of the paper from Cornell University provided contributions to enable this published work, which was initiated under an ongoing research collaboration between Monsanto and Harvard University on PACE technology. PACE technology was originally invented in the Harvard laboratory of Dr. David Liu, Professor of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, who is also a Howard Hughes Medical Institute Investigator. Dr. Liu and his lab developed this tool as a way to create, identify and evolve optimised proteins, up to 100 times faster than previous methods. The ability to speed the discovery of improved and optimised proteins enables faster advancements in the improvement of crops, as proteins are the central building blocks to the agronomic traits farmers’ value, such as insect control and herbicide tolerance. At a time when farmers are battling a changing climate and volatile weather, which often results in increased pest pressure on a faster time horizon, it becomes increasingly important to drive new innovations in agriculture more quickly.

“Scientific breakthroughs like PACE technology are key to continue bringing solutions to farmers to help them get more out of every acre,” said Tom Adams, Vice President of Biotechnology at Monsanto. “The remarkable progress that’s been made in applying PACE to agriculture biotechnology is a huge testament to the success that comes when parties work together and collaborate to advance science in a way that can bring long-term benefits to global agriculture.” Monsanto and Harvard initiated their ongoing collaboration on PACE technology in 2013, and Monsanto has since entered into a limited-term, exclusive license agreement with Harvard for the use of this technology for agricultural applications. “The research published in Nature is an important demonstration of David Liu’s PACE 50

platform, validating its potential as a tool not only for agriculture, where it can address compelling scientific challenges, but across diverse areas of future application including health care, where it could evolve tailor-made therapies for human disease,” says Isaac T. Kohlberg, Harvard’s Senior Associate Provost and Chief Technology Development Officer. “The PACE collaboration is just one example of how researchers in academia and industry can pool their expertise to advance science in areas of mutual interest and speed the development of impactful technologies.” Farmers are continually challenged by effects of a changing climate, including increased insect pressure, disease and weed infestations. A broad-range of agriculture solutions are critical to help farmers address and manage these on-farm challenges in a sustainable way. Collaborating on the advancement of science in agriculture, in addition to driving key scientific breakthroughs like PACE technology, will continue to be critical in helping farmers mitigate these challenges, and ultimately provide sustainable solutions to increase yields and improve harvests.

THE AUSTRALIAN AGRONOMIST WINTER

FORECAST:

INNOVATION IN AGRICULTURE STIFLED BY INEFFECTIVE REFORMS AND INEFFICIENCY The peak industry organisation representing the agricultural chemical and biotechnology plant science sector in Australia believes that the performance statistics recently released by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) are abysmal, and highlight that the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources’ last round of reforms has failed on their key goal to improve regulatory efficiency. CropLife Australia is the peak organisation representing the innovators, developers, manufacturers, formulators and registrants of crop protection and ag-biotechnology products. Matthew Cossey is Chief Executive Officer of CropLife Australia. He said that the abysmal performance is best demonstrated by the fact that the regulator is only achieving 52% of work within its statutory time frames. He emphasised that such lengthy delays in assessing crop protection product applications for registration means that Australian farmers are being denied the benefits of new and innovative products that their global competitors already have. “The innovation of new crop protection products or new uses for existing products that is core to improving productivity by Australian farmers is being stifled by a slow, inefficient and cumbersome regulatory system,” said Matthew. It’s the opinion of peak organisation that Australia is fortunate to have an independent, scientifically competent and technically proficient regulator, however ongoing issues relating to efficiency, predictability and consistency are seriously affecting farmer access to the latest crop protection products. “These results are a direct consequence of the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources’ complete disregard for the impact of their previous reform agenda, developed between 2010 and 2014, on the APVMA. The transitional funding provided to the APVMA was also largely insufficient, particularly when a quarter of the amount provided needed to be paid back to the Department well before any efficiency could be realised. The Department of Agriculture and Water Resources must hasten to correct the mistakes of the previous ‘so called’ efficiency reform agenda that has thus far delivered nothing more than extended registration time frames, before the APVMA is completely overwhelmed. These fixes must be fast-tracked so that the promises made so many years ago can finally be delivered,” explained Matthew. Matthew said that for years CropLife Australia, national and state farmer organisations and producer groups have dedicated

substantial resources to support the multiple agricultural and veterinary chemical reform agendas in the hope that it would help deliver efficiency in the regulatory system. He believes it is now beyond time that the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources shows it is genuinely listening to those who use and understand the regulatory system, and demonstrate competency by focusing on delivering real efficiency reform without further disrupting the performance of the regulator. “Irrespective of the impacts of the reform agenda, these performance results are unacceptable and the APVMA must do better. It is however important to acknowledge that while trying to deal with the impacts of legislative reform, the APVMA has implemented a range of significant administrative and operational efficiency initiatives that CropLife is optimistic will deliver some regulatory efficiency. It is heartening to at least see a regulator seeking to genuinely deliver, at an operational level, on the Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources’ objectives in terms of efficiency reform. It’s about time the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources stops being an inhibitor to real efficiency reform and starts showing a similar willingness to deliver on the Minister’s own drive and commitment to regulatory efficiency,” said Matthew. “The Department of Agriculture and Water Resources needs to explain how they have allowed Australia’s agricultural and veterinary chemical regulator to become a growing barrier to innovation at a time when access to the latest agricultural tools is crucial for Australia’s farmers,” added Matthew. CropLife Australia is dedicated to ensuring Australia’s farmers have access to crop protection products so they can farm productively, sustainably and competitively is crucial. The peak organisation believes that years of Department of Agriculture and Water Resources ‘efficiency reform’ agendas and disruptive external influences have now culminated in a regulator that delays crucial product registrations and stifles innovation. This then denies farmer access to the latest innovative products and is effectively tying the hands of farmers and preventing them from being able to compete globally on a level playing field. “Fixing the mistakes of the previous reform agenda and prioritising reforms that drive real efficiency are imperative to enabling innovation in agriculture. That’s how the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources can help deliver on the Government’s innovation agenda,” Matthew concluded.

FORECAST:

AUSTRALIA’S FARM PRODUCTION TO TOP $60 BILLION The gross value of Australia’s farm production is forecast to pass $60 billion for the first time next financial year, according to the latest ABARES figures. ABARES Executive Director, Karen Schneider, said the expected modest rise in value was bolstered by improved prospects for livestock and cropping industries. “Total farm production is forecast to rise by 3 per cent to reach $60.3 billion in 2016–17, following a forecast increase of 9 per cent to $58.7 billion in 2015–16,” Karen said. “The gross value of livestock production is expected to be $30.8 billion in 2016–17, up from $30.3 billion in 2015–16. This is off the back of continued strong international demand for Australia’s livestock products. The gross value of crop production is forecast to rise by 4 per cent to $29.5 billion in 2016–17 assuming a return to favourable seasonal conditions in most cropping regions,” she added. Karen said farm exports were forecast to remain strong in 2016-17. She explained that earnings from farm exports are forecast to remain at around $45 billion in 2016–17, following a forecast rise of 3 per cent in 2015–16. “Export earnings for crops are forecast to be $22.4 billion in 2016–17, slightly lower than a forecast $22.7 billion in 2015–16, because of falling world prices for crops as a result of plentiful global supply. Earnings for exports of livestock and livestock products are forecast to rise slightly to a record $22.6 billion in 2016–17, supported by firm international demand,” Karen said.

The agricultural commodities for which export earnings are forecast to rise in 2016–17 are wool (up 7 per cent), dairy products (4 per cent), sugar (7 per cent), live feeder/slaughter cattle (9 per cent), cotton (22 per cent) and canola (13 per cent). These forecast increases are expected to be more than offset by expected declines in export earnings for beef and veal (down 4 per cent), wheat (1 per cent), lamb (3 per cent) and mutton (11 per cent). By 2020-21, the gross value of farm production is projected to be $58.5 billion (in 2015–16 dollars) in 2020-21, under the assumption of average seasonal conditions. This projected value is 11 per cent higher than the average of $52.6 billion over the five years to 2014–15 in real terms. The value of farm exports is projected to be around $45.3 billion (in 2015–16 dollars) in 2020-21, also around 11 per cent higher than the average of $40.7 billion over the five years to 2014–15 in real terms. The figures were released in the March 2016 issue of Agricultural Commodities at the ABARES Outlook conference in Canberra. In addition to the commodity outlook to 2020–21, the March issue contains analysis of the performance of broadacre and dairy farms, productivity in Australia’s broadacre and dairy industries, and a disaggregation of farm performance statistics by farm size. The full report is available on the ABARES website.

“The gross value of crop production is forecast to rise by 4 per cent to $29.5 billion in 2016–17 assuming a return to favourable seasonal conditions in most cropping regions.” Karen Schneider

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SUPPORT FOR GLOBAL FOOD SECURITY Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources, Barnaby Joyce, and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Julie Bishop, recently been announced that Australia will contribute to the Global Crop Diversity Trust to safeguard the world's crops and strengthen global food security. Established in 2004, the Global Crop Diversity Trust supports conservation of the world's most diverse collection of food crop seeds and improves the plant genetic resources for the world's major food crops. Australia's $5 million contribution will provide financial support and technical assistance to seedbanks in developing countries and support a fail-safe backup of food crop seeds in the Svalbard Seed Vault in Norway. As a net importer of crop species, Australia recognises the importance of a global effort to maintain crop seed diversity. Australia has been contributing both farmed and wild seed material to the Svalbard Seed Vault collection as

a valuable resource for global food production, and as a vital back-up to our national collections. Seedbanks are vital to preparing for a projected 60% increase in global food demand by 2050. The Trust is playing an important role in preserving crop varieties with greater tolerance to climatic stresses such as drought and salinity.

Australia was a founding member of the Global Crop Diversity Trust, and former Australian Deputy Prime Minister Tim Fischer is Vice-Chair of the Crop Trust's Executive Board.

Australia's contribution is a great example of how the government is helping Australian farmers and how Australian farmers are helping to feed the world. Australia also provides country level support for crop diversity. We are assisting Afghanistan to unlock the genetic make-up of different types of wheat stored in their national seed bank, using technology developed in Australia. This will help secure their agricultural future and provide the means to develop their rich genetic resources.

STRENGTHENING AGRICULTURAL INNOVATION BETWEEN AUSTRALIA AND ISRAEL Agreement between Australia and Israel to strengthen research in Agriculture. The Premier of New South Wales, Mike Baird witnessed the signing of an agreement between the University of Sydney and the Agricultural Research Organisation of Israel to help agricultural innovation flourish in NSW. The memorandum of understanding between the two institutions will concentrate on teaching, training and research activities in the areas of dairy, poultry and aquaculture. The Premier said agriculture is a vital sector for both New South Wales and Israel, and with similar dry and arid climates, it makes sense to share knowledge, expertise and innovative research. “We have a range of measures in place that support farmers to become more resilient and better prepared against drought conditions, to drive growth in the state’s agriculture sector into the future. This agreement allows us learn from our shared experiences, and explore how the latest technological advancements could play a role in new farming methods that would help farmers with water, stock and land management,” Mike Baird explained.

“We both have a limited supply of water and arable land, and both countries have a strong drive for innovation,” she explained. “If we are to solve the major challenges of our time like food security, University of Sydney researchers need to collaborate with researchers from around the world. Agreements like this help to drive research and teaching collaboration, which will ultimately lead to real world solutions,” the Professor said. Some of the projects Australian and Israeli researchers will be working on together include: • Increasing the meat quality in male calves; • Examining systems and genetics to minimise heat stress in animals; • Nutrition in poultry to prevent infectious diseases; • Exploring alternatives to the use of antibiotics in poultry; • Improving aquaculture systems for sustainable production of fish and vegetables; • Biosecurity and disease preparedness for aquaculture systems.

Professor Katherine Belov is Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Global Engagement) at the University of Sydney. She said that when it comes to agriculture, Australia and Israel share many similarities. 53

HERBICIDE INNOVATION PARTNERSHIP AIMS TO DELIVER INNOVATIVE WEED CONTROL SOLUTIONS Growing weed resistance problems will continue to threaten global crop production. One of the most important problems in agriculture today, a new research and development partnership aims to deliver innovative weed solutions to global agriculture. In June 2015, the Australian Grains Research & Development Organisation (GRDC) and Bayer signed their Herbicide Innovation Partnership (HIP) an innovative cooperation model to jointly discover next-generation weed control solutions. In March 2016, Bayer welcomed the first visit of a high-level delegation from the GRDC at a ceremony at its Frankfurt site, where the company’s global weed control research activities are concentrated. The five-year agreement funded with AUD $45 million over five years has led to 39 scientists now being employed at Bayer’s Frankfurt site. Besides welcoming the scientists, Bayer and GRDC inaugurated the new research laboratories in Frankfurt. The recently renovated facilities have a surface area of approximately 1,100 m2 and include labs and offices for more than 30 chemists and lab technicians, including eleven new postdoctoral researchers from Australia and New Zealand, who will work on possible solutions against weeds. In the presence of the Australian Consul General David C. Campbell and Professor Stephen Powles, Director of Australia’s Herbicide Resistance Initiative, Bayer and GRDC representatives exchanged experiences and discussed current developments and challenges in global weed control. One major focus of the discussion dealt with the dramatic increase of herbicide-resistant weeds across the globe. In the past 15 years, global weed resistance has increased by 60 percent so that a quarter of the worst and most common weeds are already resistant. At the same time, no new herbicide mode of action has been discovered and none are expected to be discovered in the near future. “We firmly believe that collaboration models like the Herbicide Innovation Partnership between the GRDC and Bayer will make the difference in the battle against weeds,” said Liam Condon, member of the Board of Management of Bayer AG and head of the Crop Science Division.

ago. The rapid evolution of resistant weeds such as ryegrass, wild radish and others is threatening Australian wheat production. Similar problems in European agriculture are being caused by multi-resistant grass weeds like black grass and wild oats. New tools such as novel herbicidal molecules with resistancebreaking properties are therefore urgently required. “It is good to see this partnership between Bayer and GRDC,” said Professor Stephen Powles, Director of Australia’s Herbicide Resistance Initiative, during the event. “The world needs new herbicides as well as state-of-the-art herbicide resistance knowledge and understanding to help us mitigate, manage and minimize herbicide resistance,” he added. The challenge of weed resistance to herbicides has affected weed science by influencing views on the sustainability of weed management practices, the search for new modes of action, the development of new herbicides, and how weed scientists need to be trained and connected within the global community of farmers, agronomists and researchers. The cooperation between Bayer and GRDC includes a post-doc program which will help expand scientific know-how among Australian researchers by providing training in advanced industrial research techniques. Nine post-doctoral chemists from Australia and two from New Zealand recently started their two-year contracts at Bayer’s weed research centre in Frankfurt and are working on promising research projects in chemistry, biochemistry and biology. Beyond the HIP, the Weed Resistance Competence Centre (WRCC) located in Frankfurt am Main is another cornerstone of Bayer’s global strategy to combat weed resistance. The WRCC collaborates with a number of scientific bodies like the Australian Herbicide Resistance Initiative (AHRI) and the Australian Research Council (ARC). It is today an integral part of Bayer’s scientific approach to Integrated Weed Management (IWM) and is perfectly complemented by the new strategic collaboration with the GRDC. The IWM program offers farmers customised solutions for weed control through cutting-edge seeds, crop protection products and a wide range of services such as diagnostic tools and prediction models. It promotes best management practices in local initiatives.

“In the light of the challenges to increasing productivity and sustainability in crop production, it is even more important that we collaborate in order to accelerate research activities. This greatly increases the probability of success,” he added. Richard Clark is Chairman of the GRDC. He said, “Growers have consistently told us that managing resistant and poorly controlled weeds is the biggest problem they face. By highlighting the significance of the challenge, through regional panels and cropping solution groups, growers have directly influenced the research focus of the GRDC and the global innovation company Bayer, for the benefit of their local farming community. We acknowledge our growers and also the industry for its support of this collaboration. We believe this partnership will put Australian farms at the forefront of tackling herbicide resistance.” Weeds are the single most important reason for crop losses globally, causing high management costs and threatening food security. In Australia, herbicide resistance started around 30 years 54

Ribbon-cutting for the inauguration: Liam Condon, Bayer AG Board Member, and Richard Clark, Chairman of the GRDC (right).

THE AUSTRALIAN AGRONOMIST WINTER

INCREASING PRESSURE FOR INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT Emerging pests, such as snails and slugs, and rising occurrences of insecticide resistance in red legged earth mite (RLEM), have heightened the need for better strategies to protect Western Australian crops and pastures.

Meanwhile, there have been increasing reports of small pointed snails and black keeled slugs, particularly in medium to high rainfall areas. The department has undertaken exploratory research on the use of microwave technology to eradicate these pests.

Department of Agriculture and Food research officer Svetlana Micic said climate conditions, continuous cropping and stubble retention had resulted in greater pest pressures. Svetlana said growers were also facing a rise in the risk of insecticide resistance with some pests, such as RLEM. “In WA, 56 properties have reported populations of RLEM resistant to synthetic pyrethroids, such as bifenthrin, with three of these properties also resistant to omethoate,” she said. “A further four properties have been identified with RLEM resistance to omethoate and the first with resistance to chlorophyrifos,” she added. Svetlana said the repeated cumulative exposure of RLEM to the same insecticides was the main factor behind resistance developing. “Every time a broad spectrum insecticide is used to control pests, such as weevils, caterpillars and aphids, RLEM also receive a dose of this insecticide, despite not necessarily being the direct target,” Svetlana said. “Decreasing the need to spray can be done by reducing the occurrence of pests. This can be achieved by staying on top of the ‘green bridge’ and removing plant material that could provide feed and a habitat to support pests over summer into the growing season,” she explained.

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“Experiments by my colleague John Moore have shown that black keeled slugs and common garden snails were very sensitive to microwave radiation, while small pointed snails were much more tolerant. While microwave treatments may be unproven for broadacre control of pests, it could potentially be useful for the control of slugs and larger snails with minimum adaption of current technology.” Svetlana said. Preliminary research has also examined the use of mobile telephone cameras attached to harvesters to map snails in a paddock so control can be targeted to heavily infested patches. While the use of this technology is conceptual at the moment, it has shown potential to be used to generate data to produce contour maps to map the incidence of snails. Svetlana said the increased incidence of pests and chemical resistance highlighted the need for landholders to tailor Integrated Pest Management measures. She urged growers to monitor their paddocks and bait for snails and slugs to improve their crop potential. “Generally, if growers have one to two slugs per square metre in a canola crop it is worth their while to take action,” she concluded.

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MULTIPLE BENEFITS FROM 20 YEARS OF GM CROP PRODUCTION THE LATEST INDEPENDENT REPORT PUBLISHED BY THE INTERNATIONAL SERVICE FOR THE ACQUISITION OF AGRI-BIOTECH APPLICATIONS (ISAAA) CONFIRMS THE BENEFITS THAT PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY HAS DELIVERED FOR FARMERS, COMMUNITIES, CONSUMERS, ECONOMIES AND THE ENVIRONMENT FOR TWENTY YEARS. “This report confirms the importance of Australian farmers being able to choose innovative, safe and approved technologies to remain globally competitive, meet the requirements of increased food demand and farm sustainably in a changing and challenging climate,” said Matthew Cossey, Chief Executive Officer of CropLife Australia. “Modern farming using biotechnology innovation will play an increasingly crucial role in food, feed and fibre production in Australia, and this report highlights the need to ensure non-science based and unnecessary costly regulation doesn’t hold Australia back from reaping the benefits and being a world leader in agricultural innovation. This is further evidence that state moratoria on genetically modified (GM) crops are antiquated and serve no purpose,” Matthew said. The ISAAA report marks twenty years of successful commercialisation of GM crops, with more than 4.9 billion acres of GM crops planted since 1996 across 20 developing and eight industrialised 56

countries representing more than 60 percent of the world’s population. This 100-fold increase in plantings since 1996 makes GM crops the fastest adopted crop technology in recent times. The report also highlights that since 1996 GM crops have improved the sustainable use of pesticides, saving 583.5 million kilograms of active ingredient; conserved biodiversity by saving more than 375 million acres of land from being placed in agricultural production; alleviated poverty for 16.5 million small farmers and farm families, totalling more than 65 million people; and reduced CO2 emissions from agriculture by 27 billion kilograms in 2014 alone (equivalent to removing 12 million cars from the road for one year). Australian farmers continue to embrace crop biotechnology with an increase in GM crop plantings of 21 percent, to a total of more than 1.6 million acres in 2015. GM herbicide tolerant canola increased by around 30 percent to more than 1 million acres in 2015, with the fastest rate of adoption occurring in Western Australia

THE AUSTRALIAN AGRONOMIST WINTER

as growers they recognise the advantages of superior weed control, higher yields, increased market demand and greater on-farm economic and environmental benefits. “Australian farmers, like farmers all around the world, recognise the enormous agronomic, economic and environmental benefits that come with the use of agricultural biotechnology innovations. The repeal of state GM moratoria will unshackle Australian farmers and secure their choice to access modern agriculture innovations that allow them to compete on a level playing field in an aggressively competitive global market,” said Matthew. “GM crops are the most tested and regulated food product in the world. Countless independent, long-term studies have been carried out by universities, government organisations, public institutions and private companies around the world over the past few decades. Every legitimate scientific and regulatory body that has examined the evidence has arrived at the conclusion that GM crops and the foods they produce are as safe as their conventional counterparts,” he added. “Australian farmers must have confidence in their access to these safe, effective modern agriculture innovations to maintain and improve on their position as global leaders in agriculture. It is time that public policies and regulations for GM crops are based on facts and evidence, and the ideologically driven, baseless scare campaigns by activist groups stop unduly influencing agricultural policy,” concluded Matthew.

“The report also highlights that since 1996 GM crops have improved the sustainable use of pesticides, saving 583.5 million kilograms of active ingredient.” Matthew Cossey 57

ANU SHARES IN FUNDING FOR RICE RESEARCH Australian National University (ANU) crop scientists have been funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for their quest to improve rice production by 50 per cent, as part of a global alliance led by scientists at Oxford University. The C4 Rice Project has received funding for a third phase of its drive to develop a strain of rice with double the water efficiency, increased tolerance to high temperatures and improved nitrogen usage. "The C4 Rice Project is a long-term global effort to tackle the biggest challenge of our future: feeding the world population," said ANU Professor Susanne von Caemmerer, Deputy Director of the ARC Centre of Excellence for Translational Photosynthesis and one of the co-leaders of the C4 Rice Australian Node.

"Traditional rice breeding programs have hit a yield barrier. The world is facing an unprecedented level of food shortages." The C4 Rice Project was initiated in 2008 with funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, following discussions led by the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI). Researchers at the Australian National University have been part of the project since its inception. Phase III of the project is a collaboration between 12 institutions in eight countries funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Rice is a staple for nearly half of the world's population, but uses an inefficient photosynthesis method to harness energy from the sun to grow and thrive. The scientists believe they can improve rice production by 50 per cent if they can modify rice to use a more efficient photosynthesis method, the C4 pathway, which makes sugarcane and sorghum grow quickly, instead of the C3 pathway that current rice plants use. ANU Professor Robert Furbank said it was exciting to receive the continued funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, via the University of Oxford. "It is an ambitious project that aims to ensure food security with a quantum leap in rice yields," said Professor Furbank, from the ANU Node of the ARC Centre of Excellence for Translational Photosynthesis. Professor Jane Langdale, from the Department of Plant Sciences at Oxford University, and Principal Investigator on Phase III of the C4 Rice Project, said the increase of 50 per cent over the next 35 years was crucial to feed the world.

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