AgriFocus was held on October 16th at the SFS Streatham trial site in South-West Victoria. Now in its fourteenth year, the event provided over 250 farmers and agronomists with access to the latest high rainfall zone research in the field.

The day featured keynote sessions on weed control and management techniques, presented by Dr. Chris Preston from the University of Adelaide, and Lachie Seears,  Lucindale farmer and Nuffield Scholar spoke about his farming systems and Nuffield Scholarship on pulse production & supply chains. Attendees participated in a “choose your own adventure” matrix, which included over 20 presentations and research trials.

The trials showcased a range of topics, including soil ameliorants like lime and gypsum, cereal and canola varieties and disease management, faba bean and vetch management, and an overview of the GRDC Farming Systems South project. Additionally, there were talks on carbon farming, with SFS collaborating with the Grower Group Alliance to deliver the National Industry-led Carbon Farming Outreach Program (CFOP).

The event also included updates on Meat & Livestock Australia’s NLIS and eID programs, as well as information on fertiliser additives from Biolink Australia. SFS partners Swayn and McCabe Claas Harvest Centre had some impressive machinery on display, and RAGT Australia released RGT Atlantis barley and RGT Ponsford spring wheat, both promising varieties for HRZ cropping systems.

Overall, the 2024 AgriFocus field day was a valuable opportunity for farmers and agronomists to gain practical insights and knowledge to enhance their farming systems in the high rainfall zone. Thank you to all the partners, exhibitors and members who attended and made the day such a great success.