GRDC Podcast
- Épisodes
- 582
- Parution
- hebdomadaire
- Dernier épisode
- 10 Nov 2026
À propos du podcast
GRDC podcasts cover the latest grains research, development and extension knowledge and outcomes to help grain growers improve their profitability.
Épisodes 582
Keeping harvesters rolling at full capacity: Store at harvest, truck later
Ben White from GRDC’s Grain Storage Extension team and Peter Newman from Planfarm share a simple message: run harvesters at full capacity, and if they can't operate at full capacity, consider parking them …
Notes de l’épisode
Ben White from GRDC’s Grain Storage Extension team and Peter Newman from Planfarm share a simple message: run harvesters at full capacity, and if they can't operate at full capacity, consider parking them.
Drawing on insights from a recent series of harvester setup workshops, the discussion explores how machinery capacity, grain handling logistics and storage options can work together to improve harvest efficiency.
This project is a GRDC investment led by Planfarm and delivered in collaboration with the GRDC Harvester Setup Workshops.
Contacts:
Ben White
Grain Storage Extension team
Peter Newman
Planfarm
More Information:
GRDC video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GDFwGz5muZc
Project/Investment Code:
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GRDC in Conversation: Jessica Zieltjes
For Jessica Zieltjes, agriculture was always part of life. Growing up in a farming family that moved from New Zealand to the New South Wales grain belt, she developed an early interest in crops, farming systems …
Notes de l’épisode
For Jessica Zieltjes, agriculture was always part of life. Growing up in a farming family that moved from New Zealand to the New South Wales grain belt, she developed an early interest in crops, farming systems and the people behind them. But finding the right career path wasn't straightforward.
After exploring roles in cotton, rice, seed production and research agronomy, Jess eventually found her place with Grassroots Agronomy, where she works directly with growers across the Riverina.
In this conversation, she shares the experiences that shaped her career, the importance of following your instincts, and why being farmer-facing was the key to finding work she genuinely loves.
Jess also discusses the value of mentorship, learning through experience, and building confidence as a young agronomist. The conversation explores farming systems research, the role of pulses in crop rotations, emerging technologies such as optical spot spraying, and the power of strong communication across the grains industry.
At the heart of it all is a passion for continuous learning, meaningful relationships, and helping growers turn small improvements into long-term success.
This episode explores:
- Jess' journey from a farming family to a career in agronomy
- How moving from New Zealand to Australia shaped her connection to agriculture
- Why exploring different agronomy pathways helped her find the right fit
- The importance of mentorship, curiosity and continuous learning
- What independent agronomy looks like and the value of working closely with growers
- How farming systems research and pulse crops are driving on-farm change
- The technologies and innovations Jess is most excited about for the future of grain growing
Watch this episode as a video on YouTube
https://youtu.be/Y1TuSR9w4bU
More information
Grassroots Agronomy https://www.grassrootsag.com.au/
GRDC in Conversation is a limited series GRDC Podcast. It features in-depth interviews with growers and other experts in the grains industry who share their expertise, knowledge and experiences by exploring their personal stories, history, influences and motivations. The views expressed in this podcast are solely those of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the views of GRDC, the interviewees’ employer, institution or other associated parties.
GRDC Project Code:
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Farm safety: Tim Haslam - From smoke to strength, lessons from a harvest fire
In 2023, a devastating paddock fire left Popanyinning grower, Tim Haslam, with burns to 38 per cent of his body. He shares his remarkable story of survival and three key safety lessons that all growers should …
Notes de l’épisode
In 2023, a devastating paddock fire left Popanyinning grower, Tim Haslam, with burns to 38 per cent of his body. He shares his remarkable story of survival and three key safety lessons that all growers should know ahead of harvest.
Tim chairs The Farming Collective for farmers to raise money for life-changing burns research. Farmers can nominate grain on the Fiona Wood Foundation website, or at the CBH load net.
This podcast is part of the Farm Safety Series, a GRDC investment led by AgCommunicators in partnership with the National Centre for Farmer Health and ifarmwell, Adelaide University. The investment aims to start the conversation on farm safety and raise awareness of safety on grain farms across Australia.
GRDC’s Farm Safety series is a collection of articles, videos and podcasts focusing on the different perspectives of farm safety of growers across Australia. It features in-depth interviews with growers who share experiences, near-misses and events that have shaped their approach to farm safety and how they mitigate risk on their farm or the business they work for. The views, opinions and experiences shared by interviewees are made solely in a personal capacity unless stated otherwise and do not necessarily reflect the endorsement, views or policies of GRDC, the interviewees’ employer, any entity with which they may be affiliated or other associated parties.
Contact:
Tim Haslam Grower, Popanyinning WA [email protected]
More Information:
ifarmwell https://ifarmwell.com.au/
National Centre for Farmer Health https://farmerhealth.org.au/
Fiona Wood Foundation https://www.fionawoodfoundation.org.au/
Project/Investment Code:
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Farm safety: Cassidy and Kade Smith – Next generation breaking the 'she'll be right' mindset
Twin siblings, Cassidy and Kade Smith, share the workplace health and safety changes they have made following a motorbike accident on their family property in Yealering, Western Australia. The survey referenced …
Notes de l’épisode
Twin siblings, Cassidy and Kade Smith, share the workplace health and safety changes they have made following a motorbike accident on their family property in Yealering, Western Australia. The survey referenced in this video was conducted by Cassidy on behalf of Safe Farms WA as part of a workplace placement program with Marcus Oldham College.
This podcast is part of the Farm Safety Series, a GRDC investment led by AgCommunicators in partnership with the National Centre for Farmer Health and ifarmwell, Adelaide University. The investment aims to start the conversation on farm safety and raise awareness of safety on grain farms across Australia.
GRDC’s Farm Safety series is a collection of articles, videos and podcasts focusing on the different perspectives of farm safety of growers across Australia. It features in-depth interviews with growers who share experiences, near-misses and events that have shaped their approach to farm safety and how they mitigate risk on their farm or the business they work for. The views, opinions and experiences shared by interviewees are made solely in a personal capacity unless stated otherwise and do not necessarily reflect the endorsement, views or policies of GRDC, the interviewees’ employer, any entity with which they may be affiliated or other associated parties.
Contact:
Cassidy Smith Grower, Yealering WA
More Information:
ifarmwell https://ifarmwell.com.au/
National Centre for Farmer Health https://farmerhealth.org.au/
Safe Farms WA https://safefarms.net.au/
Project/Investment Code:
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GRDC in Conversation: Angus Butterfield
Angus Butterfield is a Senior Research Agronomist with Birchip Cropping Group (BCG) in north-west Victoria. Originally from Melbourne, Angus found his way into agriculture through a combination of curiosity …
Notes de l’épisode
Angus Butterfield is a Senior Research Agronomist with Birchip Cropping Group (BCG) in north-west Victoria. Originally from Melbourne, Angus found his way into agriculture through a combination of curiosity, opportunity and a growing interest in agronomy. Since joining BCG as a graduate, he has built experience across a wide range of research and extension projects, working alongside growers, researchers and industry partners throughout the Mallee, Wimmera and beyond.
In this conversation, Angus reflects on his journey into agriculture, the opportunities that come from working in a farming systems group, and the value of being closely connected to growers and the challenges they face. He shares insights into the diversity of projects underway at BCG, from weed management and herbicide resistance through to pulse production, crop establishment and farming systems research.
Angus also discusses the importance of innovation in agriculture, the role research plays in supporting grower decision-making, and why he remains optimistic about the future of the grains industry. From emerging technologies and new crop genetics to the next generation of agronomists, he highlights the opportunities that continue to shape Australian grain production.
This episode explores:
- How a Melbourne student found his way to Birchip and a career in agronomy
- Why working in a farming systems group accelerated Angus' learning and development
- The role BCG plays in connecting research with growers across north-west Victoria
- How growers in low-rainfall environments continue to innovate and adapt
- Current research into weed management, herbicide resistance and future control options
- The opportunities and challenges facing the next generation of agronomists
- What excites Angus most about the future of the Australian grains industry
Watch this episode as a video on YouTube
More information
Angus Butterfield, Birchip Cropping Group https://www.bcg.org.au/our-team/angus-butterfield/
https://groundcover.grdc.com.au/agronomy/soil-and-nutrition/trials-assess-the-benefits-of-vetch
GRDC in Conversation is a limited series GRDC Podcast. It features in-depth interviews with growers and other experts in the grains industry who share their expertise, knowledge and experiences by exploring their personal stories, history, influences and motivations. The views expressed in this podcast are solely those of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the views of GRDC, the interviewees’ employer, institution or other associated parties.
GRDC Project Code:
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Risks of canola-on-canola cropping
92,000 hectares of canola has been planted into canola stubble this year. Blackleg pathologist from the University of Melbourne, Associate Professor Angela Van de Wouw, Western Australian agronomist Geoff …
Notes de l’épisode
92,000 hectares of canola has been planted into canola stubble this year. Blackleg pathologist from the University of Melbourne, Associate Professor Angela Van de Wouw, Western Australian agronomist Geoff Fosbery, and plant breeder Raymond Cowley explain why the risks of canola-on-canola far outweigh any short-term benefits.
The Disease Management Extension Network (DMEN) is a GRDC investment bringing together plant pathologists, extension specialists and behavioural scientists to improve disease management outcomes for Australian grain growers and advisers.
Contacts:
Angela Van de Wouw
The University of MelbourneGeoff Fosbery
Farm Focus Consultants
Raymond Cowley
Pioneer Seeds
More Information:
GroundCover article Record canola on canola plantings put sector at risk: https://groundcover.grdc.com.au/grdc/announcements/record-canola-on-canola-plantings-put-sector-at-risk
Project/Investment Code:
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Grain storage best practice
Ben White and Chris Warrick from GRDC’s grain storage extension team discuss practical grain storage best practice, including fumigation timing, safe application of chemicals, ventilation and withholding …
Notes de l’épisode
Ben White and Chris Warrick from GRDC’s grain storage extension team discuss practical grain storage best practice, including fumigation timing, safe application of chemicals, ventilation and withholding periods, as well as the effective use of diatomaceous earth (DE) for storage hygiene. They share recent research and practical tips to help growers manage insects, reduce resistance risks and improve workplace safety.
Contacts:
Chris Warrick
Candid Consulting Services
Ben White
BM White
More Information:
The fumigation process in grain storage video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cvHTUD6OFnc
Dust masks and eye protection: Grain storage safety essentials video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pJBwDfrDyjk
Diatomaceous Earth (DE) application in sheds and silos video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_hwEmbmMoaQ
Fumigation timing for stored grain video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ntHJMoDGeAA
Project/Investment Code:
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GRDC in Conversation: James Manson
James Manson’s pathway into agriculture has been anything but conventional. Growing up in Chiang Mai, Thailand, he spent his early years immersed in a cross-cultural environment before discovering agriculture …
Notes de l’épisode
James Manson’s pathway into agriculture has been anything but conventional. Growing up in Chiang Mai, Thailand, he spent his early years immersed in a cross-cultural environment before discovering agriculture through an internship with an agricultural development NGO working alongside hill tribe communities near the Myanmar border. What began as an adventure quickly became a passion, leading him to study agriculture and international development before building a career in applied crop research.
Today, James is a Crop Systems Researcher with CSIRO and the 2026 GRDC Emerging Leader for the Southern Region. His research has helped growers better understand faba bean yield formation and now focuses on developing critical period benchmarks for wheat and barley, helping bridge the gap between crop science and practical on-farm decision-making. Driven by a desire to understand how crops work and why they respond the way they do, James is passionate about turning complex agronomic theory into knowledge that growers can use to improve outcomes in the paddock.
In this episode of GRDC In Conversation, James reflects on the experiences that shaped his journey from Thailand to Australian agriculture, the lessons learned working alongside growers, and how curiosity continues to drive his research. He shares insights into crop yield formation, the science behind critical periods, and why understanding the way plants grow can help unlock better decisions across farming systems.
This episode explores:
- How growing up in Thailand shaped James’ curiosity, worldview and approach to agriculture
- The internship that introduced him to agriculture and sparked a passion for research and development
- Why working closely with growers helped shape his career and approach to communicating science
- The journey from Southern Farming Systems to completing a PhD focused on faba bean yield formation
- How critical period research is helping improve decision-making in wheat and barley crops
- The challenge of translating complex crop science into practical outcomes for growers
- What being named the 2026 GRDC Emerging Leader for the Southern Region means to him
Watch this episode as a video on YouTube
https://youtu.be/WW_5rd8DTK0
More information
https://www.csiro.au/en/news/all/articles/2026/march/james-manson-farming-systems-research
https://groundcover.grdc.com.au/grdc/awardsscholarships/young-researcher-wins-emerging-leader-award
GRDC in Conversation is a limited series GRDC Podcast. It features in-depth interviews with growers and other experts in the grains industry who share their expertise, knowledge and experiences by exploring their personal stories, history, influences and motivations. The views expressed in this podcast are solely those of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the views of GRDC, the interviewees’ employer, institution or other associated parties.
GRDC Project Code:
HAG2507-001SAX
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NVT new variety series 2026 - wheat
Welcome to GRDC’s National Variety Trials (NVT) new variety podcast series, where Australia's leading breeding companies share their latest releases for the 2027 growing season. This podcast focuses on wheat …
Notes de l’épisode
Welcome to GRDC’s National Variety Trials (NVT) new variety podcast series, where Australia's leading breeding companies share their latest releases for the 2027 growing season.
This podcast focuses on wheat. There is a separate podcast that focuses on barley, canola, chickpea, faba bean, field pea and lentil.
The NVT program is completely independent, funded and managed by GRDC to provide growers with trusted information to assist in variety choice. Note that seasonal conditions can have a more variable impact on variety performance than geographical location. For this reason, choose a variety with an established track record of at least two years of NVT performance data. The risks associated with choosing an untested variety are greater than sticking with one that has a proven track record. Always ask to see the official NVT results when talking to your seed seller.
Contacts:
- Australian Grain Technologies (AGT)
More Information:
You can find out more information about the varieties featured in this podcast at www.nvt.grdc.com.au, alongside individual breeder websites.
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NVT new variety series 2026 - barley, canola, chickpea, faba bean, field pea and lentil
Welcome to GRDC’s National Variety Trials (NVT) new variety podcast series, where Australia's leading breeding companies share their latest releases for the 2027 growing season. This podcast focuses on barley …
Notes de l’épisode
Welcome to GRDC’s National Variety Trials (NVT) new variety podcast series, where Australia's leading breeding companies share their latest releases for the 2027 growing season.
This podcast focuses on barley, canola, chickpea, faba bean, field pea and lentil. There is a separate podcast that focuses on wheat.
The NVT program is completely independent, funded and managed by GRDC to provide growers with trusted information to assist in variety choice. Note that seasonal conditions can have a more variable impact on variety performance than geographical location. For this reason, choose a variety with an established track record of at least two years of NVT performance data. The risks associated with choosing an untested variety are greater than sticking with one that has a proven track record. Always ask to see the official NVT results when talking to your seed seller.
Contacts:
· Australian Grain & Forage Seeds (AGF Seeds)
· Australian Grain Technologies (AGT)
More Information:
You can find out more information about the varieties featured in this podcast at www.nvt.grdc.com.au , alongside individual breeder websites.
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GRDC in Conversation: Alex Conway
Alex Conway grew up surrounded by agriculture, machinery and problem-solving, watching his family business evolve from a small operation run out of a garage into a nationally recognised grain storage technology …
Notes de l’épisode
Alex Conway grew up surrounded by agriculture, machinery and problem-solving, watching his family business evolve from a small operation run out of a garage into a nationally recognised grain storage technology company. What began as helping program aeration controllers and fit GPS guidance systems as a kid has turned into a career combining agricultural engineering, grain storage extension and a passion for helping growers better manage risk and protect grain quality. Today, Alex balances his role at Control Unlimited with his work on GRDC’s Grain Storage Extension team, supporting growers across Australia through workshops, industry events and practical on-farm advice.
In this episode of GRDC In Conversation, Alex reflects on the experiences that shaped his pathway into agriculture - from harvesting across Australia and Canada to discovering a fascination with grain storage systems, monitoring technology and the evolving challenges facing growers. He shares insights into the importance of saying yes to opportunities, documenting lessons along the way and building a career by following curiosity rather than a perfectly mapped-out plan.
This episode explores:
- How Alex’s upbringing around machinery, technology and farming shaped his passion for agriculture
- The evolution of the Conway family business, Control Unlimited, from a home garage startup to a national agtechnology company
- Why grain storage became an unexpected but rewarding career pathway
- Lessons learned from harvesting across Queensland, Western Australia, Tasmania and Canada
- How international farming experiences exposed Alex to new approaches in grain handling, drying and monitoring systems
- The growing importance of on-farm grain storage in Australian agriculture
- Why curiosity, adaptability and “having a crack” have been central to Alex’s career journey
- How documenting experiences and reflecting on lessons helped reveal long-term passions and career direction
- The role of technology and engineering in improving grain quality, efficiency and decision-making
- Why supporting growers with practical, relevant solutions remains at the heart of the work Alex does today
Watch this episode as a video on YouTube https://youtu.be/o9N5iKEtTuQ
More information
Alex Conway, Control Unlimited https://www.grainaeration.com.au/
GRDC in Conversation is a limited series GRDC Podcast. It features in-depth interviews with growers and other experts in the grains industry who share their expertise, knowledge and experiences by exploring their personal stories, history, influences and motivations. The views expressed in this podcast are solely those of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the views of GRDC, the interviewees’ employer, institution or other associated parties.
GRDC Project Code
HAG2507-001SAX https://grdc.com.au/grdc-investments/investments/investment?code=HAG2507-001SAX
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The moment leadership became real: TRAIL Emerging Leaders program
Young agronomists Anne Millar and Lachie Biglin share how the TRAIL Emerging Leaders program changed the way they think about leadership, relationships and their own potential. From hiking and camping without …
Notes de l’épisode
Young agronomists Anne Millar and Lachie Biglin share how the TRAIL Emerging Leaders program changed the way they think about leadership, relationships and their own potential. From hiking and camping without phones to honest conversations, journaling and building a nationwide network, both participants discovered that leadership isn't about having one particular style — it's about understanding yourself, recognising others and finding your own way to make an impact.
GRDC continues to invest in future grains sector leaders through six sponsored places in the 2027 TRAIL Emerging Leaders Program. The scholarships are valued at $15,000 per participant and are available to early-career grain growers, advisers, agronomists and researchers. TRAIL is delivered by the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation and has developed more than 200 emerging rural leaders, who join a national ARLF alumni network.
Contacts:
Anne Millar
Elders
Lachlan Biglin
Nutrien Ag Solutions
More information:
https://programs.rural-leaders.org.au/trail-grdc-application
https://rural-leaders.org.au/trail-emerging-leaders-program/
Project/Investment Code:
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GRDC in Conversation: Henry Baskerville
In this episode of GRDC In Conversation, Oli Le Lievre sits down with Queensland Department of Primary Industries extension officer Henry Baskerville in Toowoomba to unpack the role of extension, soil health …
Notes de l’épisode
In this episode of GRDC In Conversation, Oli Le Lievre sits down with Queensland Department of Primary Industries extension officer Henry Baskerville in Toowoomba to unpack the role of extension, soil health and decision making in modern grain farming.
Although Henry didn’t grow up on a farm, a passion for agriculture, soils and working outdoors led him into the grains industry and eventually into extension. From travelling across Queensland collecting soil samples to working alongside growers on-farm, Henry shares why helping people make better decisions and being part of the learning process is what drives his work.
The conversation explores grower-led research, soil health challenges, RiskWi$e and how farmers approach risk and decision making. Henry also dives into the future of ag tech, AI, robotics and “digital twins”, while reflecting on why the people in agriculture are what keep him passionate about the industry.
This episode explores:
- How Henry’s pathway from wildlife science and dairy farming led him into the grains industry and extension
- Why soil health has become such an important focus across Australian grain growing systems
- The role of extension officers in connecting growers, researchers and practical on-farm outcomes
- Why grower-led research and participation creates stronger learning and adoption
- The importance of collaboration between researchers and growers when designing projects and trials
- How RiskWi$e is helping growers better understand risk, reward and decision making
- The hidden complexity behind grower decision making around inputs like nitrogen
- Why growers often balance profitability with environmental outcomes and long-term soil health
- The growing role of ag technology, satellite imagery and mapping tools in agriculture
- How AI, robotics and digital twins could shape the future of farming
- Why technology needs to focus on practical decision making rather than just producing more data
- The value of curiosity, adaptability and learning through doing in agriculture
- Why the people in agriculture are what continue to drive Henry’s passion for the industry
Watch this episode as a video on YouTube
https://youtu.be/9ohft-UmPCw
More information
https://groundcover.grdc.com.au/agronomy/soil-and-nutrition/riskwi$e-road-tour
GRDC in Conversation is a limited series GRDC Podcast. It features in-depth interviews with growers and other experts in the grains industry who share their expertise, knowledge and experiences by exploring their personal stories, history, influences and motivations. The views expressed in this podcast are solely those of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the views of GRDC, the interviewees’ employer, institution or other associated parties.
GRDC Project Code:
HAG2507-001SAX
https://grdc.com.au/grdc-investments/investments/investment?code=HAG2507-001SAX
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Is pigeon pea a summer option for QLD and northern NSW growers?
Pigeon pea, a mainstay crop grown in India, is now being touted as an alternative summer crop for southern Queensland and northern New South Wales as its hardiness to adverse weather conditions is one of its …
Notes de l’épisode
Pigeon pea, a mainstay crop grown in India, is now being touted as an alternative summer crop for southern Queensland and northern New South Wales as its hardiness to adverse weather conditions is one of its favoured features. GRDC, Woods Seeds and the Queensland Department of Primary Industries have been running trials over several years around the Toowoomba region with Principal Research Scientist Bruce Winter and Angus Woods of Wood Seeds leading the charge.
Contacts:
Angus Woods
Woods Seeds
Bruce Winter
Queensland DPI
More Information:
https://grdc.com.au/events/past-events/2024/07/grdc-grains-research-update-goondiwindi
https://groundcover.grdc.com.au/crops/pulses/golden-opportunity-for-the-norths-hot-and-dry-spots
Project Code:
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Gravelling and sanding problematic sodic soils
Gravel and sand mulches are being tested to improve crop emergence in areas affected by challenging soil conditions, including non-wetting soils, waterlogging and salinity with some unexpected results. Ella …
Notes de l’épisode
Gravel and sand mulches are being tested to improve crop emergence in areas affected by challenging soil conditions, including non-wetting soils, waterlogging and salinity with some unexpected results. Ella Shaylor from SLR Agriculture explains how surface mulches can help conserve soil moisture, reduce evaporation and limit the movement of salts towards the soil surface. Local grower Jake Latham shares his experience with persistent patches where crops have struggled to germinate year after year. While gravel has performed well in previous trials, sand mulch is showing particularly promising results— raising new questions about how and why the treatment is working.
This podcast is part of a 6-part GRDC series looking at managing soil constraints in Western Australia. The project adopting innovative solutions for challenging soils is a GRDC investment led by SLR Agriculture.
Contacts:
Ella Shaylor
SLR Agriculture
Jake Latham
Grower
More Information:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yPqOC5zbwC8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=foExvBXRFjo
Project/Investment Codes:
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Grain Automate: Dealer download - where farmers get stuck
Farm automation adoption isn’t just about technology - it depends on people. Dealers are essential in building trust, proving value in local conditions, and supporting farmers through training, service, and …
Notes de l’épisode
Farm automation adoption isn’t just about technology - it depends on people. Dealers are essential in building trust, proving value in local conditions, and supporting farmers through training, service, and confidence-building. Andrew Speed has spent a lifetime in the grains industry and knows first hand not just the frustration of when technology doesn’t hit the mark, but the jubilation when it does. Now working in the precision ag team at RDO Equipment, he joins Conor McGuckian from eastern Australia’s Boekeman Machinery in a frank conversation around how growers can work with their machinery dealers to move towards an autonomous business. This GRDC podcast series is led by the Society of Precision Agriculture Australia as part of the GRDC Grain Automate Initiative.
Contacts:
Conor McGuckian
Boekeman Machinery
Andrew Speed
RDO Equipment
More Information:
Major initiative: Grain AutomateGrain automate project round up
Momentum builds for on-farm task automation
GRDC invests $35M to drive machine automation and intelligent technology for grain growers
Grain Automate webinar: getting automation farm-ready
SPAA webinar: Paving the way for on-farm autonomy
The latest in ag tech comes to grain
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Managing weeds in tough seasons: HRZ strategies that work
Weeds can be especially challenging in High Rainfall Zones, where favourable growing conditions can drive significant weed pressure. Agronomists Luke Wilkins and Candice Robinson share their insights about …
Notes de l’épisode
Weeds can be especially challenging in High Rainfall Zones, where favourable growing conditions can drive significant weed pressure. Agronomists Luke Wilkins and Candice Robinson share their insights about proactive weed management strategies for tough seasons, including crop competition, herbicide rotation, harvest weed seed control and emerging technologies. They also discuss changing rainfall patterns, paraquat restrictions, brome grass and the role of research in developing future weed control options.
Contacts:
Luke Wilkins
Bawdens Rural Trading
Candice Robinson
Seftons
Project/Investment Code:
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Reshaping the landscape: Landforming for water flow management
The GRDC investment ‘improving surface and subsurface water management across the medium and high rainfall zones of Australia’ is investigating the benefits and challenges of different drainage options across …
Notes de l’épisode
The GRDC investment ‘improving surface and subsurface water management across the medium and high rainfall zones of Australia’ is investigating the benefits and challenges of different drainage options across different production regions, cropping systems and soil types. Grower Jeremy Whyte and agronomist Quenten Knight discuss how landforming uses natural and constructed gradients to assist excess water to flow off paddocks, thereby reducing ponding and waterlogging, and increasing yields. This podcast is part of a 6-part GRDC series on managing soil constraints in Western Australia.
Contact:
Jeremy Whyte
Warakirri Cropping
Quenten Knight
Agronomy Focus
More Information:
Project Code:
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Dr Lisle Snyman: 2026 Seed of Light award - North
Dr Lisle Snyman always knew she wanted to work in plant science. Growing up in South Africa, Lisle honed her pathology skills from a young age, cumulating in an esteemed career that has seen her work across the …
Notes de l’épisode
Dr Lisle Snyman always knew she wanted to work in plant science. Growing up in South Africa, Lisle honed her pathology skills from a young age, cumulating in an esteemed career that has seen her work across the globe. Eventually settling in Warwick, Queensland, as a principal plant pathologist for the Queensland Department of Primary Industries, Lisle has been awarded 2026 GRDC Seed of Light North Award for her contribution to the grains industry. GRDC’s Seed of Light Award recognises outstanding individuals who have significantly contributed to communicating research outcomes to grain growers and others working across the grains industry. Projects of note include GRDC- related research initiatives including three Net Blotch Consortium projects, national net form net blotch pathotyping and National Variety Trials disease screening.
Contact:
Lisle Snyman
QLD DPI
More Information:
https://groundcover.grdc.com.au/grdc/awardsscholarships/grains-research-and-industry-champions-acknowledged https://groundcover.grdc.com.au/weeds-pests-diseases/diseases/new-rusts-a-continual-threat-to-cereals-industry
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Global genomic research targets herbicide resistance
How similar is herbicide resistance in Canada compared to Australia? Research Fellow and weed scientist at the University of Western Australia, William Kramer, shares his global perspective on this challenging …
Notes de l’épisode
How similar is herbicide resistance in Canada compared to Australia? Research Fellow and weed scientist at the University of Western Australia, William Kramer, shares his global perspective on this challenging issue for growers and his journey in genomics research to better understand what genes are involved in resistance.
William is part of the GRDC Weed Management Initiative research team, run in partnership with The University of Western Australia, The University of Adelaide, Charles Sturt University and The University of Queensland.
Contact:
William Kramer University of Western Australia [email protected]
More information:
https://www.ahri.uwa.edu.au/us-phd-graduate-to-join-ahri-to-deliver-herbicide-technology-program/
Investment code:
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20 Tips for dual-purpose crops
Growers and agronomists in the southern cropping region discuss how they are maximising their dual-purpose crops using the information found in the GRDC publication “20 Tips for dual-purpose crops”. This …
Notes de l’épisode
Growers and agronomists in the southern cropping region discuss how they are maximising their dual-purpose crops using the information found in the GRDC publication “20 Tips for dual-purpose crops”. This practical guide is the result of a GRDC investment led by CSIRO. Hear from growers Ben Lane, Max O’Connor and Brad Cavanagh as well as Delta Agribusiness agronomists, Tim Condon and Ben Lenehan.
Contacts:
Tim Condon
Delta Agribusiness
Ben Lenehan
Delta Agribusiness
More information:
Project/Investment Code:
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Canola fungicides: Worth the spray in medium rainfall zones?
How do you know if it’s worth spraying fungicide on canola to keep diseases like Sclerotinia at bay? Maurie Street, from Grain Orana Alliance in Dubbo and Rohan Brill from Brill Ag in the Riverina, have been …
Notes de l’épisode
How do you know if it’s worth spraying fungicide on canola to keep diseases like Sclerotinia at bay? Maurie Street, from Grain Orana Alliance in Dubbo and Rohan Brill from Brill Ag in the Riverina, have been conducting field trials on the yield response to different spraying scenarios when dealing with Sclerotinia and discuss the logic behind making decisions at the beginning and even in the middle of a growing season.
Contacts:
Maurie Street
Grain Orana Alliance
Rohan Brill
Brill Ag
More Information:
SclerotiniaCM app: https://www.dpird.wa.gov.au/online-tools/sclerotinia-cm--sclerotinia-management-app/
https://afren.com.au/fungicides-available-for-australian-grain-crops-and-their-modes-of-action/
https://afren.com.au/research-fast-tracked-to-arrest-rising-blackleg-resistance/
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Grain Automate: Precision ag to farm automation
With seasons and environmental challenges often stacked against them, the Schaefer family’s determination to succeed in a sustainable manner has seen them adopt technologies, including precision agriculture …
Notes de l’épisode
With seasons and environmental challenges often stacked against them, the Schaefer family’s determination to succeed in a sustainable manner has seen them adopt technologies, including precision agriculture practices. Robin’s long family association with farming in the northern Mallee region of South Australia has meant pivoting the business several times to keep pace with technology. His experience in transitioning from a precision agriculture model to an automated one is aligned with the principles of the Grain Automate initiative. This GRDC Grain Automate podcast series is led by the Society of Precision Agriculture Australia or SPAA, as part of the GRDC Grain Automate Initiative.
Contact:
Robin Shaefer
Grower around Loxton, northern Mallee district
More Information:
https://grdc.com.au/news-and-media/audio/podcast/2026/grain-automate-from-data-to-decisions
https://grainautomate.grdc.com.au
https://grdc.com.au/research/partnerships-and-initiatives/major-initiatives/grain-automate
https://grdc.com.au/news-and-media/audio/podcast/2026/grain-automate-getting-started-with-autonomy
https://grainautomate.grdc.com.au/resources/articles/grain-automate-project-round-up
https://www.netimes.com.au/2025/07/23/the-latest-in-ag-tech/
https://grdc.com.au/events/past-events/2024/08/paving-the-way-for-on-farm-autonomy?
Project Code:
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Dr Rick Llewellyn: 2026 Seed of Light award - South
Dr Rick Llewellyn is the recipient of the 2026 Grain Research and Development Corporation, Seed of Light South Award for his contribution to the grains industry. As a Senior Principal Research Scientist with …
Notes de l’épisode
Dr Rick Llewellyn is the recipient of the 2026 Grain Research and Development Corporation, Seed of Light South Award for his contribution to the grains industry. As a Senior Principal Research Scientist with CSIRO based out of South Australia's Waite campus, Rick has made it his mission to move the industry forward over a stellar career in the research field. GRDC Seed of Light Award recognises outstanding individuals who have significantly contributed to communicating research outcomes to grain growers and others working across the grains industry.
Contact:
Dr Rick Llewellyn
CSIRO
More Information:
https://groundcover.grdc.com.au/grdc/awardsscholarships/csiro-scientist-receives-grains-industry-awards https://groundcover.grdc.com.au/grdc/awardsscholarships/celebrating-seed-of-light-csiro-recipients
https://grdc.com.au/about/rd-and-e-capacity-and-ability/awards grdc-seed-of-light-award.pdf
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MyGRDC: How we're using it
Growers, advisers, agronomists and researchers all using MyGRDC to access information and events relevant to them. Hear from grower, Tim McClelland, researcher, Greta Duff and agronomist, Quenten Knight about …
Notes de l’épisode
Growers, advisers, agronomists and researchers all using MyGRDC to access information and events relevant to them. Hear from grower, Tim McClelland, researcher, Greta Duff and agronomist, Quenten Knight about the benefits of using MyGRDC - including personalised event notifications, bookmarking relevant articles and easy access no matter where you are.
Contact:
MyGRDC Team
Website: my.grdc.com.au
Download app: App store or Google Play
More Information:
https://grdc.com.au/resources-and-publications/mygrdc
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Managing capital in a farm enterprise
GRDC's Farm Business Updates have played a big role in updating growers about changing landscapes, including taxation and managing the ever-increasing asset base of their businesses. As part of a recent update …
Notes de l’épisode
GRDC's Farm Business Updates have played a big role in updating growers about changing landscapes, including taxation and managing the ever-increasing asset base of their businesses. As part of a recent update, Joanne Gilbert from world leading tax and consulting service, RSM Australia spoke about the changes that have occurred in the years since the Covid pandemic. Joanne encourages all growers to take control of their income and we caught up with her post-update to find out more.
Contact: Joanne Gilbert
RSM Australia
More information:
https://www.rsm.global/australia
https://groundcover.grdc.com.au/grdc/events/focus-on-farm-business-a-priority-this-february
https://grdc.com.au/resources-and-publications/grownotes/technical-manuals/farm-business-models
https://grdc.com.au/research/partnerships-and-initiatives/strategic-partnerships/riskwise
https://grdc.com.au/news-and-media/audio/podcast/2026/grain-automate-from-data-to-decisions
Project Code: ORM2401-001SAX
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Legume profitability: How they stack up in the west
Growers in Western Australia are aware of the benefits of growing legumes in their rotation. However, there are key considerations and drivers that need to be considered when making decisions. A GRDC investment …
Notes de l’épisode
Growers in Western Australia are aware of the benefits of growing legumes in their rotation. However, there are key considerations and drivers that need to be considered when making decisions. A GRDC investment with the Grower Group Alliance is aiming to help with that and in this four-part series, we tackle the agronomy, profitability, marketing, and harvesting of growing legumes. This episode explores what makes legumes profitable, how profitable they need to be to make it worthwhile, and the multi-year factors at play. We hear from grower, Timm House, and his agronomy consultant, Tom McInerney, who are both based at Gnowangerup, WA.
Contacts:
Timm House
Gnowangerup Grower
Tom McInernery
Great Southern Ag
More Information:
https://groundcover.grdc.com.au/crops/pulses/profitable-legumes-becoming-a-reality
Project Investment Code:
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GRDC in Conversation: Jessica Koch
Jessica Koch grew up around farming and technology, developing an early interest in precision agriculture as a way to better understand variability in low rainfall environments. What began as curiosity about …
Notes de l’épisode
Jessica Koch grew up around farming and technology, developing an early interest in precision agriculture as a way to better understand variability in low rainfall environments. What began as curiosity about soils, mapping and machinery has evolved into a career focused on helping growers make clearer, more confident decisions using the right information at the right time. Now a precision agriculture consultant, grower and founder of Breezy Hill Precision Ag Consulting, Jess reflects on her journey from working at a local John Deere dealership to building her own business and backing herself to step out independently.
She shares a practical perspective on precision ag - not as perfection, but as using available tools and data to reduce uncertainty and improve decision-making. Beyond the farm gate, Jess discusses her involvement with SPAA and her role in establishing Ladies on the Land in South Australia’s Upper North, highlighting the importance of creating spaces where people feel included, supported and confident to build skills and contribute.
This episode explores: - What precision agriculture really means in practice - How Jess built a career in precision ag through dealerships, consulting and on-farm experience - Why facts and good information lead to better, more confident decisions - How a leadership program helped Jess back herself and build her own consulting business - The role of self-awareness, humour and energy in leadership and communication - Why Ladies on the Land was created and the impact it has had in regional communities - How women can build confidence, farm knowledge and stronger pathways into business and leadership - Why precision ag doesn’t have to start with expensive tools, but with better use of the data already on hand
- How drought shaped decision making and reinforced the value of practical, low-cost precision ag - Why autonomy, spot spraying and better farm data systems are exciting the next wave of ag innovation
Watch this episode as a video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/pfN9ceGUzWQ
More information
https://www.breezyhillpas.com/
GRDC in Conversation is a limited series GRDC Podcast. It features in-depth interviews with growers and other experts in the grains industry who share their expertise, knowledge and experiences by exploring their personal stories, history, influences and motivations. The views expressed in this podcast are solely those of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the views of GRDC, the interviewees’ employer, institution or other associated parties.
GRDC Project Code:
HAG2507-001SAX https://grdc.com.au/grdc-investments
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Avoid the smashed egg: Improve on-farm communication
GRDC’s Farm Business Updates play a big role in updating growers about farm management systems, including self-development. Dr Jane Foster teaches emotional resilience and has been a presenter at this year’s …
Notes de l’épisode
GRDC’s Farm Business Updates play a big role in updating growers about farm management systems, including self-development. Dr Jane Foster teaches emotional resilience and has been a presenter at this year’s events. In this podcast Dr Foster discusses the importance of proactive communication skills on-farm to avoid conflict and keep everyone safe.
Contact:
Dr Jane Foster
Emotional Resilience Training
0425 718 632
More Information:
Mental health resources
https://grdc.com.au/resources-and-publications/resources/mental-health
https://grdc.com.au/news-and-media/audio/podcast/2024/finding-your-feet-as-an-agronomist
https://grdc.com.au/news-and-media/audio/podcast/2023/talking-mental-health-in-a-tough-year
The Farm business update in February:
https://groundcover.grdc.com.au/grdc/events/focus-on-farm-business-a-priority-this-february
Upcoming Farm Business updates and GRDC events:
https://grdc.com.au/events/list
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GRDC in Conversation: Matthew Howell
Matthew Howell is an agronomist, grower and regional advocate based in South Australia’s Upper South East. Over the past two decades, he has worked alongside growers through a major shift from mixed farming to …
Notes de l’épisode
Matthew Howell is an agronomist, grower and regional advocate based in South Australia’s Upper South East. Over the past two decades, he has worked alongside growers through a major shift from mixed farming to large-scale continuous cropping, driven by rainfall, soil development and opportunity. In this conversation, Matt reflects on his journey from Cummins on the Eyre Peninsula to building a life and career in Meningie, sharing what it’s been like to work in a rapidly changing region where former dairy country has been converted to broadacre cropping and growers have had to adapt quickly.
Matt speaks to the value of being actively involved through agronomy, mentoring, trials and advocacy. He explores what real practice change looks like, how tough seasons sharpen learning, and why regional leadership matters, highlighting the balance between profitability and sustainability and the need for stronger support in precision ag, data and training.
This episode explores:
- How Matt’s upbringing in Cummins shaped his connection to agriculture and regional community
- Why he moved to the Upper South East and what kept him there
- How the Meningie region shifted from mixed farming and dairy into large-scale cropping
- What it actually takes to convert farming systems at scale
- Why profitability and sustainability are driving decisions more than market hype
- What tough seasons reveal about water use efficiency, management and system weaknesses
- How local innovation sites and farmer-led trials can accelerate regional learning
- Why Matt believes regional communities thrive when farms are profitable and successful
- What holds back wider adoption of variable rate technology and precision ag
- How the next generation of agronomists will need both technical skill and people skills
- Why speaking up, getting involved and influencing policy matters for regional agriculture
Watch this episode as a video on YouTube https://youtu.be/_rNR6XSV2u8
More information
GRDC in Conversation is a limited series GRDC Podcast. It features in-depth interviews with growers and other experts in the grains industry who share their expertise, knowledge and experiences by exploring their personal stories, history, influences and motivations. The views expressed in this podcast are solely those of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the views of GRDC, the interviewees’ employer, institution or other associated parties.
More info: https://grdc.com.au
Subscribe: https://grdc.com.au/grdc-subscriptions
For LIVE Events go to https://grdc.com.au/events/list
Get the latest from GroundCover: https://groundcover.grdc.com.au/
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