GRDC seeks SA input on research priorities

South Australian grain growers, researchers, farm advisers, consultants and agribusiness professionals are being encouraged to put up their hands and help shape future grains research, development and extension investments.

Industry personnel have until September 2 to nominate to become a member of the Grains Research and Development Corporation’s (GRDC) Southern Regional Cropping Solutions Networks (RCSNs).

SA grower and former researcher Matt Dare has been a member of the medium rainfall zone RCSN since its inception in 2012 and says his involvement has been a positive experience.

“I knew the GRDC already had strong links with growers through channels such as the Southern Regional Panel, but I thought I could further help highlight cropping issues that the GRDC might not be aware of by joining the RCSNs,” said Mr Dare, of Clare in SA’s Mid North.

“Being an RCSN member has allowed me to get to know growers from other areas who I otherwise would not get the chance to meet, and I have been given the opportunity to improve my understanding of the issues confronting growers in these other regions.”

Mr Dare said he was pleased to have been able to contribute to the GRDC’s research and development investment agenda by being a member of the RCSNs.

He is planning to re-nominate for a position and encourages others in the SA grains industry to also seriously consider nominating.

“It would be well worth the effort – it certainly has been for me,” he said.

The southern region RCSNs were established four years ago to further ensure grower levies are targeted to address major production constraints and opportunities in the GRDC southern region (comprising South Australia, Victoria and Tasmania).

Please see attached media release for further details.