Grain Producers SA part of working group to review cease harvest threshold

The Code had previously relied on a Grassland Fire Danger Index of 35 at a height of two metres for its threshold, but as part of the implementation of the Australian Fire Danger Rating System this threshold was to be replaced by a Fire Behaviour Index measurement of 40 at a height of ten metres.

The new threshold was originally to be implemented for the 2022/23 harvest, but following serious concerns from graingrowers and Grain Producers SA about the equivalency of the new measurement and its potential impact on harvest, an agreement was reached to use the original GFDI until more research was undertaken.

The working group will be led by independent chair Rob Kerin, with GPSA to be represented by Eyre Peninsula grower director Peta Willmott and chief executive officer Brad Perry.

GPSA has already been working with the state government and CFS to review the proposed cease harvest threshold.

Others to be involved in the process include SAPOL, PIRSA and invited guests.

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"From the feedback we received from grain producers during harvest, it is clear the FBI of 40 is not equivalent to the GFDI of 35 measuring at a two-metre working height," Mr Perry said.

"Through this working group, we envisage an agreement will be reached on the cease harvest threshold before the end of this financial year, giving grain producers time to adjust and prepare to use the new FBI during the 2023 harvest.

"We welcome the establishment of the working group and look forward to providing input, evidence and data on behalf of SA grain producers.

"The majority of South Australian grain producers have demonstrated strong adherence to the voluntary harvest code under the GFDI of 35 and we want this commitment to remain under the FBI."