A COLLABORATIVE approach to investing in grains research in South Australia is adding value to the benefits being delivered to Riverland and Mallee growers.

The South Australian Grain Industry (SAGIT) and the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) are currently co-investing in four projects, three of which are new projects starting this year.

SAGIT chairman Max Young said his organisation’s strategic collaborations with GRDC were enabling expanded research investment.

“SAGIT and GRDC share a common understanding of the importance and value of the projects SAGIT prioritised for industry funding and we welcome GRDC’s additional support for some of these projects,” Mr Young said.

“It is a sensible approach to research investment that puts the state’s growers first and foremost. With additional investment support from GRDC, we can broaden research efforts and enhance on-farm impact.

“The co-investment model we have established with GRDC is also further supporting the research community through the injection of additional funds, and it reduces the risk of potential research duplication.”

GRDC grower relations manager south, Tom Blake, said effective collaboration and co-operation across the research sector were critical to avoid duplication and maximise efficiencies.

“GRDC is committed to working closely with research partners, like SAGIT, to ensure we invest in research, development and extension, that is informed by growers and advisers and importantly delivers genuine gains at farm level,” Mr Blake said.

“In this case we are investing in critical areas such as crop protection and identifying agronomic tools to manage seasonal challenges such as frost, as well as post farm gate market opportunities.”

The three new projects which have commenced this year with a 50/50 investment split between SAGIT and GRDC are:

• Developing a new high-value noodle market for SA growers, led by the Australian Export Grains Innovation Centre ($400,000 total investment).
• Agronomy strategies for frost management in pulse crops, led by the University of Adelaide ($123,000 total investment).
• Revegetation for enhanced biocontrol of pest conical snails, led by the University of Adelaide ($240,000).

The continuing co-invested project is the Frost Learning Centre for farmers, advisers and researchers which is led by the Mid North High Rainfall Group, with the $350,000 project commencing last year and concluding in 2023.

SAGIT is funded by a voluntary grower levy of 30 cents per harvested tonne.