Wide Bay sugarcane growers, millers and industry will receive the latest information on sugarcane research and innovation at the upcoming Grower Research Update for the region.

The event runs from 9am to midday at The Waves Sports Club, Bundaberg, on Tuesday February 27, and it will provide the local sugarcane industry with a valuable insight into the work and investments from their industry-owned company, Sugar Research Australia (SRA).

The event will see researchers from a range of institutions presenting on their research and then answer questions from the audience to further explore how their work provides productivity, profitability, and sustainability outcomes for the industry.

Topics include: potential genetic gains in the plant breeding program, sugarcane variety fibre levels, soldier fly and grub control, new technology for tillage, and future technology in agriculture.

SRA CEO, Mr Neil Fisher, said that the event would provide information relevant to the local industry, while also sharing the latest research information.

“Sugarcane varieties are the single biggest investment area that SRA makes on behalf of the Australian industry, and are a foundation of profitability and productivity for growers and millers,” Mr Fisher said. “So this will be a hot topic of discussion, especially as SRA is undertaking a raft of improvements to sugarcane breeding program.

“SRA is also making a significant investment into the key pests of cane grubs and soldier fly, so this will be a chance to hear an update on these important topics.

“We will also gain an insight into future technological possibilities for agriculture from Professor Craig Baillie with the University of Southern Queensland speaking on this topic.

“We encourage all growers, millers, and industry stakeholders to attend these forums to learn more about the research and innovation occurring as part of SRA’s investments.”

POSTED BY

brad.pfeffer