- Author CRC for Developing Northern Australia
- Publish date 2 March 2021
- Type Fact sheet
- Documents
- Broadacre cropping
Summary
This newsletter provides an update of the CRCNA’s five cropping research collaborations currently underway at various locations across Northern Australia.
These projects are co-funded by the CRCNA, the Grains RDC (GRDC), the Cotton RDC (CRDC) and include cash and in-kind co-contributions from other industry project participants.
From March 2021, the CRCNA and project participants will host a weekly webinar session for each of these projects and the registration details are provided within this newsletter or via our events page here.
Projects
Potential for broadacre cropping in the NT
This project included a co-investment from the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) and the Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC), with funding reported here as combined CRCNA funding. The project aimed to collate historical broadacre cropping data, natural resource information and market insights to support the development of viable broadacre cropping systems in the Northern Territory. This was achieved through collaboration among project participants, each contributing unique expertise to develop crop management strategies that help de-risk broadacre agriculture in the Top End. The initial focus was on dryland and irrigated systems growing cotton and peanuts, while maize, sorghum, rice and pulse crops were also investigated as potential break crop options for cotton and peanut producers. A combination of field trials and simulation techniques was used throughout the project. On-farm demonstration plots established on commercial properties served two key purposes: To further test crop simulation models To provide hand-on experience for producers and serve as extension sites for promoting agricultural methods to local producers. As part of the project’s extension plan, producers were introduced to simple methods for establishing precision and robustness in on-farm crop trials. The project team worked closely with collaborating farmers to ensure that demonstration plots met their objectives without impeding commercial farm operations. Additionally, researchers explored the potential of harvesting wet-season flood flows into off-stream storages to support dry-season cropping – presenting a viable irrigation alternative that could enable further agricultural development across the Northern Territory. A natural resource (soil and climate) database was developed to support agronomic decision-making. Researchers identified suitable crops, optimal cropping windows, and the impacts of climate and edaphic conditions on yield and quality. These factors were used to assess the productivity of broadacre cropping systems and the potential of diversifying pastoral leases. For crops that are technically viable based on environmental conditions and available resources, market opportunity analysis is also essential to support successful adoption.
Spicing up Northern Australia with high-value condiment crops
This project conducted field trials to test the suitability of selected spice crops under real-world farming conditions to develop agronomic advice to support grower adoption. Through the direct involvement of farmers, advisers and commercial seed companies, the project helped build the supply chain links necessary to establish a new and viable industry in northern Australia. Researchers assessed the market and supply chain opportunities, as well as the environmental and agronomic systems required for producers in northern Australia to adopt five high-value spice crops – cumin, caraway, black sesame, kalonji and fennel – as the foundation of a new industry to meet Australian demand and create export opportunities. Data gathered from glasshouse trials by Central Queensland University and AgriVentis Technologies provided proof of the suitability of these five spice crops, enabling the progression to field trials. Field trial data collected across six different agro-ecological zones allowed for detailed assessments of the crops’ potential for large-scale commercial production in northern Australia.
De-risking broadacre cropping options in northern Queensland
This project was a participatory on-farm program, with growers leading the RD&E activities to identify the best crop and management options and to bridge the gap between current and potential yields. The research supported skill development among farmers and identified high-profit, low-risk options in broadacre cropping by trialling sorghum, maize and forage crops. Key activities included: Working with farmers to identify and address knowledge gaps in cropping, ensuring their engagement throughout the life of the project through a participatory RD&E approach. Conducting trails at “Strathmore Station” (Gilbert catchment) and “Curra” (Burdekin catchment) to develop adapted agronomic packages. Supporting farmers and managing trials at “Prestwood Station” (Gilbert catchment). Collaborating with Radicle Seeds Australia Pty Ltd and Elders Rural Service Australia Limited to identify optimal combinations of hybrid characteristics in maize, sorghum, and forage crops suited to northern Australia’s environments and markets. Communicating project outcomes with farmers, consultants, AgForce members, and agribusinesses across the Gilbert and Burdekin catchments.
Developing an oilseed industry in Northern Australia
This project identified a range of adapted oilseed crops suitable for commercial-scale production as part of a high-value component of a cropping system in northern Australia. Crops trialled included sesame, soybeans, safflower, linseed, canola, mustards and nigella. The research team has delivered a trial compendium that provides a comprehensive overview and analysis of the project and its field trials.
Developing a broadacre cropping sector in northern Queensland
This project engaged both existing and new grain growers, along with the agribusiness sector, within the Gulf River catchments to develop local cropping systems and agronomic skills. In the Gulf River catchments of North Queensland there was limited experience and knowledge regarding the performance and profitability of potential dryland and irrigated broadacre grain crops. Understanding the variability in crop performance was critical to equipping local landholders and potential investors with the knowledge and risk assessments needed to develop suitable grain cropping systems for the region. This project provided local landholders and agribusiness personnel with the opportunity to gain the knowledge and skills required for successful grain production, integrated within existing extensive grazing enterprises in the region.