An increase in the tools, knowledge and confidence of growers and advisors across the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) Northern Region to optimise pulse crop yields is the aim of a new GRDC investment Pulse Check - local extension and communication for profitable pulse production in South East NSW.
FarmLink is working with Pulse Australia in co-ordinating the GRDC Pulse Check project across five GRDC sub-regions in NSW, with Pulse Check groups in southern NSW facilitated by Riverine Plains Inc and FarmLink in the Riverina.
The Pulse Check Discussion Groups will allow growers, advisors and researchers to address the challenges and opportunities created by pulse crops in the rotation.
The groups will direct their own learning by tapping into information and tools being delivered through GRDC and other pulse investments.
Groups will meet two to three times each season and remain connected through social and other media. A program of interactive seasonal activities will be conducted by each group to include all aspects of the pulse value chain.
Guest presenters will include marketers, researchers and experienced growers who will contribute their knowledge on production to help increase the capacity for greater production in the region.
The first meeting of the Riverine Plains Inc Pulse Check group will be held on Friday 26 October, 2018 at the Hamilton Family property ‘Granview’ at Rand from 8:30 am to 11:30am.
A workshop will be held at the sheds before visiting a faba bean and lentil crop.
Speakers will include; Phil Bowden (Pulse Australia), Roy Hamilton (Rand), James Madden (Madden Consulting) and Gary Drew (Lupins for Life).
If you would like to be involved, or for further information, please contact Riverine Plains Inc Pulse Check Group facilitator, Kate Coffey, on 03 5744 1713.
Pulse Australia’s Phil Bowden said that despite poor seasonal and market conditions this season for pulses, fundamentals remain strong globally with factors such as Indian economic growth in demand for chickpeas and lentils, increased Chinese demand for peas and faba beans, and short supply of pulses in Pakistan all contributing.
“In addition, the current drought in eastern Australia, along with the high prices for livestock and wool are increasing demand for pulse based stock feed particularly lupins, field peas and faba beans,” Mr Bowden said.
