The exchange of knowledge and practices is invaluable", says Jeff Hurst, ATS Agrichemicals Key Account Manager. Jeff has just returned from a seven day study tour of Victoria, Australia, organised by the Foundation for Arable Research.
"Seeing what works in other parts of the world and can possibly be translated back to our systems. For instance, at Dookie, they are passionate about controlled trafficking using GPS auto steering systems accurate to 2cm. This means that all equipment utilises the same wheel tracks in a paddock, keeping soil compaction to a minimum". Jeff was also impressed with the state of the art technology used in Victoria, and of course the big gear there.
Arable farmers in Victoria typically grow one crop a year, on a three-year rotation which is usually wheat / wheat / canola, rather than the summer / winter cropping rotation typical in Mid Canterbury. Wheat yields are typically low at 0-6t/ha compared with the +10t/ha yields we would target here. The crops look very good at the moment. From a New Zealand perspective we would estimate yields at around 8t/ha, but the dry springs experienced in Victoria mean that the crops will finish at 2-3t/ha.
The Australian arable industry is facing some major herbicide resistance issues caused by the way chemicals are used in their cropping system. "The take home message for the New Zealand arable sector is we have to look after our chemistry", Jeff said.
A highlight of the study tour was the visit to the Syngenta Learning Centre at Elmore. The group was very well looked after and had the opportunity to view a number of trials of chemicals from different manufacturers across diverse crops.
Amongst the social activities, the group appreciated the hospitality extended to them at Dookie by members of the Riverine Plains Farming Group. They also enjoyed a paddle steamer trip at Echuca. "The private paddle steamers are just amazing," Jeff said. "They are set up like the most luxurious of houses, with a spa pool on the top deck where they can relax with a beer and a Barbie".
Jeff's participation was part of the ongoing ATS sponsorship of the Arable Y's.