Lucerne Australia is the peak industry body for the lucerne seed industry in Australia and it has over 80 grower members and 45 associate members. Lucerne Australia aims are to incorporate all relevant sectors of the Australian lucerne seed industry and has formed a membership body that acts in the best interests of the industry as a whole. Lucerne Australia focuses on research projects which will benefit the sector long-term, as well as issues such as noxious weeds and pests. Events and workshops focus on integrated pest management, irrigation, pollination, contracts, cost of production, and phyto-sanitary. Production-focused events which relate to seed and hay production are also well-received by members.
| Location | Keith, South Australia |
|---|---|
| Postal Address | PO Box 505 Keith SA 5267 |
| Primary Contact | Jenny Aitken - Executive Officer |
| Phone | 0439 538 332 |
| info@lucerneaustralia.org.au | |
| Website | https://www.lucerneaustralia.org.au/ |
The Lucerne Australia is the peak industry body for the lucerne seed industry in Australia. It represents the interests of lucerne growers in aspects of production and raises funds to support the association through membership fees and levies. There are currently 80 grower members and over 40 associate members.
Lucerne Australia has a strong focus on training and development activities and facilitates co-operation with statutory entities, government departments and industry stakeholders.
Lucerne Australia also has a strong focus on research trials. Recent trials include the Setaria trial, the White Fringe Weavil trial, a Seed Variety trial and a newly launched In-Field Fertiliser trial.
The ‘In-Field Fertiliser trial’ is funded by Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC) with communications and extension funding successfully obtained from Caring for our Country. This three-year research trial commenced in April 2012 and will provide a clear picture to which fertilisers deliver maximum benefits for lucerne seed producers. The trial will determine which fertilisers provide maximum seed yield and optimum seed yield. The primary outcome is to enable growers to more cost effectively fertilise crops which will potentially lower cost of production and increase margins across the industry.
Our events focus on latest research and technology as well as best-production practices in the industry.
The executive committee comprises five grower representatives and three associate members and three portfolios have been set-up within the strategic plan. Sub-committees also report to the executive on issues like research trials, noxious weeks such as golden dodder and phyto-sanitary.
Lucerne Australia aims to incorporate all relevant sectors of the Australian lucerne seed industry and has formed a membership body that acts in the best interests of the industry as a whole.
