ABOUT 70 farmers, researchers and grain industry representatives attended the Southern Australia Durum Growers Association pre-seeding forum at Tarlee yesterday.
Durum breeder Jason Able spoke about the new durum varieties that are being released this year and next year, while Salter Springs-based agronomist Craig Davis gave tips on how best to grow grade 1 durum.
AGD’s Tom Lucas gave an update on pulse marketing and a price outlook for lentils, beans, peas and chickpeas, while Glencore durum trader Tom Smibert covered durum marketing.
SARDI researcher Marg Evans gave an overview on how best to tackle the problem of crown rot, while ADM wheat trading manager Andrew Mead gave outlooks for wheat and barley prices.
The day also feature two panel sessions, with attendees able to ask questions of Mr Davis, Prof Able, GrainGrowers’ David Evans, Mellco’s Steve Mellington and NAB Agribusiness’ Craig Brown.
