Strong turnout at BCG field day
About 350 growers and industry representatives took advantage of sunny and social conditions at Narraport to attend the 2018 BCG Main Field Day.
Growers from across the Wimmera-mallee and beyond visited BCG’S main research site at Peter and Jenny Jolly’s property on Nullawil-birchip Road.
BCG chief executive Chris Sounness reiterated the value of ‘local’ input and thanked the Jolly family for making the site available.
“Farmers who make resources available such as paddocks, livestock and equipment for research are key contributors to BCG’S success,” he said.
“We had three farm presenters – Robbie Lee, Russell Hocking and Tom Batters – as part of the line-up and this reflects our commitment to combine research with on-farm application.”
Visitors noted the site was in excellent condition, especially considering climatic conditions and during morning touring sessions saw this firsthand, with a choice of visiting eight information sessions, including a sheep display.
Afternoon sessions continued the range and quality of information presentations, which included technical information on ‘effective spray application’ with Bill Gordon, and a sheep demonstration ‘EID, automatic drafting and managing mobs effectively’ with Anthony Shepherd.
A session by Carissa Buckland, ‘Glyphosate: global status, the US jury verdict and fallout, science regulation and on-farm use’ provided growers with information and an opportunity to ask questions.
Organisers said the average age of the crowd was notably lower than in previous years as the Rural Bank supported a Parent’s Retreat, drawing parents and a much younger group of attendees, particularly children aged under five.
The day closed with refreshments, offering a chance for BCG members and non-members to reflect on the day’s learning and a season that is drawing to a close sooner than many would hope.
BCG members unable to attend the field day will be able to access audio recordings from the BCG members-only portal of the group’s website in coming weeks.