GEDC’s Regional Development Officer Michaela Hendry recently attended the North Mallee Farm Improvement Group field day. Held in Salmon Gums, interesting topics of discussion included adoption of Variable Rate Technology among growers, as presented by local agronomist Giles McMeikan. Despite its 20-year lifespan, Variable Rate Technology (VRT) has yet to see the uptake amongst growers that experts expect. A Grains Research and Development Corporation study aims to understand what the barriers to adoption are, despite having many benefits and low cost of entry. Preliminary data shows that growers can save $20-30/ha by implementing VRT and contribute significantly to sustainability benefits.
Natasha Teakle from Agristart revealed their investment program to back newly established agtech businesses. Growers and investors can choose investment levels, so that growers are involved from the start. This ensures businesses consider realistic barriers and issues on the ground, and what products are useful to producers.
The field day was an opportunity for the latest HARVEST accelerator program cohort to pitch their products to the grassroots agricultural community. It was a great opportunity hear from North Mallee Farm Improvement Group, Esperance Zone Innovation Group, Agristart and the Society of Precision Agriculture Australia.