Riverina grain growers are being provided with a unique opportunity to learn about avenues for farm profitability and to directly contribute ideas for future investment in grains research to advance their farming systems.
A Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) Farm Business Update at Corowa on March 10 is being combined with a GRDC National Grower Network (NGN) Forum.
GRDC Grower Relations Manager – South, Courtney Ramsey, says the combined event serves two very important purposes.
"The first is to bring local growers up to date on the latest insights on farm business topics that have a bearing on profitability, and the second purpose is to enable growers to contribute their ideas and suggestions for GRDC's investment program," Ms Ramsey says.
"All growers, advisers and other industry personnel are encouraged to attend – to learn from the experts on farm business matters and to have a say on how GRDC is investing their levies."
The Farm Business Update at the Corowa RSL Club features a line-up of specialists, led by keynote speaker Professor Richard Eckard from Melbourne University who will simplify carbon market dynamics and the potential opportunities and risks to consider as a grain grower.
Mark Bennett, Head of Agribusiness at ANZ, will then provide an overview of global markets and the impact on Australian growers.
Other topics to be covered include reducing exposure to input price shocks, getting more out of fertiliser, accessing labour resources, and business structures and strategies to support generational transfer.
The free-of-charge NGN Forum, to start at 3.15pm, will identify factors impacting farm productivity and profitability and review opportunities for local GRDC research, development and extension support.
"These regional forums are designed to capture local priorities and enable a genuine discussion among participants about how grower levies are being invested by GRDC," Ms Ramsey says.
"Participants can raise their ideas in-person with GRDC staff, and they will also gain insights into current GRDC-invested projects which address issues relevant to the Riverina."
Catering will be provided throughout the day, and registration is essential to ensure a COVID-19 safe event.
