GRDC Podcast

James Walter is the bioinformatics lead at Australian Grain Technologies (AGT), working at the intersection of genetics, data science and plant breeding. His role focuses on turning vast amounts of genomic and field data into practical insights that help breeders make better decisions and ultimately deliver improved crop varieties to growers. In this episode, James takes us behind the scenes of the plant breeding pipeline, unpacking the journey from initial crosses in the glasshouse through to years of field trials, quality testing and eventual commercial release. He explains how modern breeding balances resilience and performance, why stability across seasons is critical, and how the explosion of data and new technologies is reshaping how varieties are developed. This episode explores: ● James’ pathway from agricultural science into bioinformatics and plant breeding ● What a role in genomics and data science looks like in agriculture ● How plant breeding programs work from glasshouse to commercial release ● Why it takes 8–10 years to develop a new crop variety ● The importance of stability versus peak performance in different seasons ● How genetics and field data are combined to guide breeding decisions ● The role of large-scale field trials across multiple environments ● How new technologies, AI and data are transforming plant breeding ● The sheer scale of data involved in modern breeding programs ● Career opportunities in agriculture beyond traditional farm roles Watch this episode as a video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/hEJmhVcDmtg More information: https://groundcover.grdc.com.au/innovation/climate/global-search-helps-heat-tolerance-gains-to-be-made-in-wheat https://www.agtbreeding.com.au/ GRDC in Conversation is a limited series GRDC Podcast. It features in-depth interviews with growers and other experts in the grains industry who share their expertise, knowledge and experiences by exploring their personal stories, history, influences and motivations. The views expressed in this podcast are solely those of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the views of GRDC, the interviewees’ employer, institution or other associated parties. GRDC Project Code: HAG2507-001SAX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode explores how to set pulse crops up for success, because they really don't forgive shortcuts with herbicides. Navneet Aggarwal, a senior research agronomist for the South Australian Research and Development Institute or SARDI, has been a part of the South Australian Grain Legume Project looking specifically at herbicide safety and weed management in pulses. He says preparation is key, but if those crucial steps are missed, what are the options? The SA Grain Legume Project: ‘Development and extension to close the economic yield gap and maximise farming systems benefits from grain legume production in South Australia’ is led by the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI), the research division of the Department of Primary Industries and Regions, alongside a number of project partners. Contact: Navneet Aggarwal South Australian Research and Development Institute navneet.a⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠ More Information: ⁠ https://grdc.com.au/resources-and-publications/grdc-update-papers/tab-content/grdc-update-papers/2024/07/broadleaf-weed-management-in-lentil-grown-on-different-soil-types-in-south-australia⁠⁠https://groundcover.grdc.com.au/crops/pulses/sa-research-push-to-close-pulse-yield-gaps⁠ ⁠https://groundcover.grdc.com.au/crops/pulses/fine-tuning-legume-agronomy-to-benefit-sa-growers⁠ ⁠https://grdc.com.au/grdc-investments/investments/investment?code=UOA2105-013RTX&_gl=1*yrqwkq*_ga*ODQxMzgxOTU0LjE3NzI1MDg1NjY.*_ga_ZTGWWXHVRC*czE3NzMxMDAzODYkbzckZzEkdDE3NzMxMDE5MjgkajI0JGwwJGgw Project Investment Code: UOA2105-013RTX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode focuses on sandy soils and how to unlock their potential to successfully grow pulses, which have traditionally been a challenge. GRDC's investment in the South Australian Grain Legume project has led to a targeted approach to trialling a variety of methods for sandy soil improvement. Agronomist, Jason Brand, has worked closely on this project, previously with Agriculture Victoria and Frontier Farming Systems, but more recently as a director of GEM Agronomy. The SA Grain Legume Project: ‘Development and extension to close the economic yield gap and maximise farming systems benefits from grain legume production in South Australia’ is led by the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI), the research division of the Department of Primary Industries and Regions, alongside a number of project partners. Contact: Jason Brand Director, Gem Agronomy [email protected] More Information: https://groundcover.grdc.com.au/crops/pulses/legume-challenges-addressed https://grdc.com.au/resources-and-publications/resources/sandy-soils Project Investment Code: UOA2105-013RTX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Get pulse agronomy foundations right on your farm to reduce risk and build long term profitability. This episode explores examples from the South Australian Grain Legume Project, a GRDC investment. We speak with Sarah Day, communications and extension manager with Mallee Sustainable Farming, and Wade Nickolls, whose family farms pulses at Pinnaroo in the Southern Mallee of South Australia and Victoria. Wade says while the pulse industry and agronomy has changed a lot in the last 30 years, the key drivers for success are still the same. The SA Grain Legume Project: ‘Development and extension to close the economic yield gap and maximise farming systems benefits from grain legume production in South Australia’ is led by the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI), the research division of the Department of Primary Industries and Regions, alongside a number of project partners. Contacts: Sarah Day Mallee Sustainable Farming Communication and Extension Manager [email protected] Wade Nickolls Grower [email protected] Project Investment Code: UOA2105-013RTX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of GRDC in Conversation, Oli Le Lievre sits down with Ashley Amourgis, General Manager of Southern Farming Systems, just west of Geelong. Growing up on a dairy farm near Deloraine in Tasmania, Ashley developed a deep appreciation for agriculture as a way of life. That grounding has shaped her journey into the grains industry, where she now works at the intersection of research, extension and farming systems in Victoria’s high rainfall zone. Ashley shares her pathway from university uncertainty and early rejection to nearly a decade in grains, reflecting on confidence, mentorship and stepping into leadership. The conversation explores nitrogen management in high rainfall environments, the importance of long-term Farming Systems research, the role of drainage in transforming southwest Victoria, and why every farm requires context rather than cookie cutter advice. Ashley also offers advice for young professionals entering agriculture and explains why, despite advances in AI and technology, people remain at the heart of the industry. Watch highlights from this episode as a video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/bMjm1-wQzMQ More information: Farming systems project to inform decision making for southern growers https://groundcover.grdc.com.au/grdc/announcements/farming-systems-project-to-inform-decision-making-for-southern-growers Southern Farming Systems projects https://sfs.org.au/farming-systems/projects GRDC in Conversation is a limited series GRDC Podcast. It features in-depth interviews with growers and other experts in the grains industry who share their expertise, knowledge and experiences by exploring their personal stories, history, influences and motivations. The views expressed in this podcast are solely those of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the views of GRDC, the interviewees’ employer, institution or other associated parties. GRDC Project Code: HAG2507-001SAX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is part two in the GRDC Grain Automate initiative series and is led by the Society of Precision Agriculture Australia (SPAA). Emma Ayliffe, a grower and director with Summit Ag in New South Wales Central West, takes us through a pragmatic approach to autonomy and agronomy. She covers how farm data can be structured and interpreted to support confident, actionable decision making rather than just generating dashboards. Emma is adamant growers need to be using more structure when assessing what to prioritise on farm. And at the top of that list is data. Contact: Emma Ayliffe Grower, Lake Cargelligo NSW [email protected] More Information: Grain Automate Are you ready for Autonomy? Major initiatives - Grain Automate SPAA Webinar – Paving the way for on-farm autonomy Project Code: SPA2404-002RTX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of GRDC In Conversation, host Oli Le Lievre sits down with Darcy Warren, a leading researcher at Field Applied Research (FAR) Australia based in Geelong. Darcy’s entry into agriculture was far from traditional; growing up in the leafy Melbourne suburb of Greensborough, he discovered agricultural science almost by accident at a university open day. From those early sparks of curiosity, Darcy has built a distinguished career, starting with a joint GRDC and Agriculture Victoria graduate program and progressing to help lead a national research team. The conversation explores the rapid growth of Field Applied Research (FAR) Australia from a small team of four to a national organisation. Darcy reflects on the "career-defining" Hyper Yielding Cereals project in Tasmania, the complexities of managing disease burdens, and the shifting landscape of fungicide resistance. Beyond the technical science, Darcy discusses the "people side" of agriculture—the importance of mentorship, the challenges of a travel-heavy career, and why he encourages the next generation of "city kids" to find their place in the grains sector. Watch highlights from this episode as a video on YouTube. More information Far Australia GRDC in Conversation is a limited series GRDC Podcast. It features in-depth interviews with growers and other experts in the grains industry who share their expertise, knowledge and experiences by exploring their personal stories, history, influences and motivations. The views expressed in this podcast are solely those of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the views of GRDC, the interviewees’ employer, institution or other associated parties. GRDC Project Code: HAG2507-001SAX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Tim Neale from DataFarming explains a new precision ag tool, weedSAT. WeedSAT is a satellite-powered weed detection tool developed with investment from GRDC through the Grain Automate initiative. It uses high-resolution commercial satellite imagery to identify larger, hard-to-kill weeds across broadacre paddocks. This enables targeted spraying using existing boom spray section control systems before growers even enter the field. We also hear from Precision Ag consultant Bindi Isbister, who has been trialling the technology with Western Australian growers with good success. Contacts: Tim Neale Datafarming [email protected] Bindi Isbister Agrarian Management [email protected] More Information: Satellites deployed to pintpoint summer weeds weedSAT turning your conventional boom into a spot sprayer using ultra high resolution satellite imagery Project Investment Code: DFL2304-002RTX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, facilitators Amy Wright and Lucy Pedler talk about the rise of young grower groups across South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula. Supported by AIR EP and the Future Drought Fund, these peer-to-peer networks are creating safe spaces for young growers to build skills, confidence and leadership capacity. Participants prioritise topics such as soils, technology adoption, drought resilience and business management—while also valuing connection, collaboration and time off-farm with peers. Amy and Lucy highlight increased confidence among members, with some stepping into leadership roles, industry panels and research committees. With study tours planned and momentum building, these groups are not only strengthening individual businesses but fostering the next generation of resilient, connected agricultural leaders. GRDC is proud to support many of these growers to attend study tours. Contacts: Agricultural Innovation & Research Eyre Peninsula Inc [email protected] George Pedler Ag [email protected] More Information: GRDC Sponsorship AIR EP Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you been thinking of adding a legume to your rotation? In this episode, we are joined by Calingiri legume grower John Young and Glen Reithmuller who is from DPIRD in WA. John shares his experience with implementing legumes into his rotation and Glen shares the surprising efficiency of legume harvestability. Contacts: John Young WA Grower [email protected] Glen Reithmuller DPRID [email protected] More Information: Closing the economic yield gap of grain legumes in WALegume Harvesting video Project Investment Code: GGA2110-002SAX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As we recorded this podcast, the bushfire threat in Victoria was ongoing with lives, homes, and thousands of hectares of cropping land still at risk. In this episode, we hear from Dennis Hoiberg from Lessons Learned Consulting and get some strategies for looking after your mental health in traumatic times such as a bushfire event. We also speak to South Australian grower, Andy Barr, who has firsthand experience dealing with the loss and devastation bushfires can cause. Contacts: Andy Barr Grower, South Australia [email protected] Dennis Hoiberg Lessons Learned Consulting [email protected] More Information: https://grdc.com.au/resources-and-publications/all-publications/publications/2023/reducing-harvest-fires https://grdc.com.au/events/past-events/2025/10/grdc-farm-business-update,-online-reducing-the-risk-of-harvest-fires https://lessonslearntconsulting.com https://www.lifeline.org.au https://www.beyondblue.org.au Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What the eef are EEFs? This episode dives deep into not only what EEFs are, but how they can change modern grain farming. On the face of it, they are enhanced efficiency fertilisers, but what it can mean is farmers are able to take control over fertiliser loss in their paddocks and be a lot closer to meeting global emissions targets. A four year multi-million dollar co-investment is aiming to explore how Australian grain growers can improve nitrogen use efficiency and reduce on farm greenhouse gas emissions. In this podcast we speak to project lead, Dr Arjun Pandey from The University of Melbourne and also grower, Russell Zwar who has experience using EEFs. Contact: Dr Arjun Pandey The University of Melbourne [email protected] More Information: Optimising the use of enhanced fertilisers Project Investment Code: UoM2404-007RTX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Adapting new technology on farm has always been vital to farming success. As modern Australian farming moves further into the digital age, fully automated systems are being considered and in this new Grain Automate podcast series, we'll be exploring innovative stories showing practical real-world examples of autonomy in grain farming. This episode emphasises that autonomy isn't about buying the newest robot. It's about building the right environment for automation to succeed and understanding why each change matters. Looking at the five foundational building blocks of autonomy and the structured process-first thinking required for successful implementation. Listen to Emma Leonard from AgriKnowHow, a consultancy company that specialises in helping farmers deal with change. Contact: Dr Emma Leonard AgriKnowHow [email protected] More Information: https://grainautomate.grdc.com.au https://groundcover.grdc.com.au/innovation/precision-agriculture-and-machinery/are-you-ready-for-autonomy Project Investment Code: SPA2404-002RTX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of GRDC In Conversation, mixed farmer Wayne Pech shares the sustainable farming practices he’s weaving into his business North Stirling Downs in WA’s Great Southern region; more specifically his focus on emission management, and the importance of family involvement in agriculture. Host Oli Le Lievre asks Wayne about the on-farm changes he’s made to improve water efficiency, and how his team of core staff members allows him to outsource daily tasks to his manager and free his mind to plan for the bigger picture of his business. More information GRDC in Conversation is a limited series GRDC Podcast. It features in-depth interviews with growers and other experts in the grains industry who share their expertise, knowledge and experiences by exploring their personal stories, history, influences and motivations. The views expressed in this podcast are solely those of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the views of GRDC, the interviewees’ employer, institution or other associated parties. GRDC Project Code: HAG2308-001SAX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, grower Tristan Baldock and agronomist Brett Masters from EPAG Research in South Australia talk about why growers on the Eyre Peninsula are trialling modification practices in a bid to combat their sandy soil constraints. Trials are taking place across more than 20 farms in the GRDC southern region, and it's all part of an ongoing co-investment between GRDC and CSIRO in collaboration with other research partners. Contacts: Brett Masters Research Agronomist, EPAG Research [email protected] Tristan Baldock Grower [email protected] More Information: Buckleboo Deep Ripping Trial Helping growers manage Sandy Soils Project Investment Code: CSP2403-017RTX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are new tools available for durum wheat growers, presenting opportunities to close the yield gap with bread wheat. With a major pasta processing company in South Australia, durum is particularly sought after. The average area sown over the past five years in SA has been around the 50-thousand-hectare mark, but that area is now being extended into non-traditional durum growing regions such as the southeast of the state. With its natural genetic resistance to stripe rust and septoria tritici, and new varieties with improved yield potential, along with advanced techniques for crown rot management and weeds, durum is showing promise. In this podcast we hear from agronomist, Darcy King and local durum grower, Simon Ballinger. Contact: Darcy King Nutrien Ag [email protected] More Information: https://groundcover.grdc.com.au/crops/cereals/padthaway-durum-outclasses-bread-wheat-in-trial Trials support durum as a profitable alternative to bread wheat | GroundCover Project Investment Code: SAD2204-001SAX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ian Longson reflects on his incredible career in the grains sector spanning 55 years, servicing farmers and agriculture businesses and passionately advocating for the industry. Through various roles in economics and policy, he’s developed a deep respect for grain farmers; not just for the value they bring to the nation’s economy, but the contribution they make to the social fabric of regional areas. In this episode of GRDC In Conversation, host Oli Le Lievre chats to Ian about his childhood visits to his uncle’s dairy farm sparking a lifelong love for farming, the rapid pace of change in the grains industry and how he’s witnessed farmers move with the times and rapidly adopt the technology available to them. More information GRDC in Conversation is a limited series GRDC Podcast. It features in-depth interviews with growers and other experts in the grains industry who share their expertise, knowledge and experiences by exploring their personal stories, history, influences and motivations. The views expressed in this podcast are solely those of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the views of GRDC, the interviewees’ employer, institution or other associated parties. GRDC Project Code: HAG2308-001SAX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

According to a survey done by the Primary Industries Education Foundation Australia (PIEFA), 75 per cent of surveyed students say they know nothing or little about the grains industry - despite it being one of Australia’s largest exports. In this episode, PIEFA CEO Luciano Mesiti outlines one of their key aims; to increase student knowledge and understanding through boosting teachers’ confidence with agricultural content. This is a concept shared by GRDC and reflected in their long-term relationship with PIEFA - a national not-for-profit company that advocates and works with industry groups to develop and promote the importance of food and fibre and agricultural education in schools. Contact: Luciano Mesiti, CEO Primary Industries Education Foundation Australia (PIEFA) [email protected] More information: https://grdc.com.au/resources-and-publications/all-publications/educational https://www.Primezone.edu.au https://www.careerharvest.com.au https://www.piefa.edu.au/ https://groundcover.grdc.com.au/innovation/industry-insights/lessons-awaken-students-interest-in-grains https://groundcover.grdc.com.au/agronomy/soil-and-nutrition/opportunities-abound-in-a-growing-industry Project Investment code: PIE2408-001SAX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

GRDC has a rigorous process in and around how it invests. GRDC is constantly engaging with growers and looking for opportunitiesto take an idea, ground truth it and find out if there is a way to invest that will lead to a positive impact for growers. In this podcast GRDC southern panel Chair, Andrew Russell and senior regional manager for the southern region, Courtney Ramsey take us through GRDC’s process - from idea to investment. Contacts: Courtney Ramsey Senior Regional Manager - South [email protected] Rebecca Raymond Senior Regional Manager - North [email protected] Peter Bird Senior Regional Manager - West [email protected] More Information: GRDC investments Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It doesn’t get much more marginal than Yilgarn, on the eastern fringe of WA’s wheatbelt, and it takes a certain kind of farmer to remain profitable and up for the challenge of a drying climate. Fourth generation grain farmer Clint Della Bosca has made some strategic decisions in recent years to steer his business in a more positive direction, as the next generation emerges. In this episode of GRDC In Conversation, host Oli Le Lievre chats with Clint about the evolution of this farming practices - why he’s removed livestock from his system to focus on his cropping program and how new technology like variable rate is dramatically improving soil health and crop yields. Like many farmers, Clint is pinning his hopes on automation to help with labour shortages, but he explains the need for more technically skilled staff in the industry to keep up with changing farming operations. More information: GRDC in Conversation is a limited series GRDC Podcast. It features in-depth interviews with growers and other experts in the grains industry who share their expertise, knowledge and experiences by exploring their personal stories, history, influences and motivations. The views expressed in this podcast are solely those of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the views of GRDC, the interviewees’ employer, institution or other associated parties. GRDC Project Code: HAG2507-001SAX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many growers are currently facing the challenges that come with paddocks that are split. Some nearly ready for harvest, others showing significant regrowth. In this episode, we talk about the ins and outs of managing regrowth in crop during harvest and hear from Matthew Sparke, an agronomist with Sparke Agricultural and Associates based in Victoria, and harvest specialist, Kassie Van Der Westhuizen. Contacts: Matthew Sparke Sparke Agriculture [email protected] Kassie Van Der Westhuizen One Shot Harvest [email protected] More Information: GRDC Harvester Guide GRDC website Project Investment Code: PRS2005-001SAX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Permanent tramlines in a controlled-traffic farming system offer a range of benefits including less soil compaction across the whole paddock, fuel savings, higher yields and better in-crop access. Over time, tramlines can compact deeper than the rest of the paddock and can become rutted, with ridges forming where tyres push soil to the sides of the tramline. In this episode, we’re joined by Bindi Isbister from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) and grower Cameron Johnson as part of a GRDC series looking at managing soil constraints in Western Australia. Together, we talk about the process of renovating these tramlines to keep them flat and even, as well as the different machinery options to get the job done. Contact: Bindi Isbister DPIRD (WA) [email protected] More information: Permanent tramlines in CTF systems need maintenance Renovating to prevent tramline erosion is now a key priority for CTF grower Developing a controlled traffic (tramline) farming system Project Code: PLT2409-001SAX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Much like mechanics might have cars in a less-than-ideal state, agronomists often have the messiest crops, with their attention going to their customers first. Kojonup grain farmer and agronomist Courtney Piesse isn’t too worried though, as his own agronomy business keeps the bills paid and his mind connected to the people and innovation alive in the industry. In this episode of GRDC In Conversation, host Oli Le Lievre chats with Courtney about pivoting from his dream of being a fighter pilot to returning to ag, and his love of applying agronomy skills to care for different crops across the vast state of WA, from wheat in the Great Southern to irrigated horticulture in the far north. More information: GRDC in Conversation is a limited series GRDC Podcast. It features in-depth interviews with growers and other experts in the grains industry who share their expertise, knowledge and experiences by exploring their personal stories, history, influences and motivations. The views expressed in this podcast are solely those of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the views of GRDC, the interviewees’ employer, institution or other associated parties. GRDC Project Code: HAG2507-001SAX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Vibrant, colourful blooms and an attractive daisy-like appearance make them a popular choice for gardens and landscaping. But unfortunately, quick growing gazanias are actually a weed, one that's jumped the fence and is now invading the paddocks of grain growers. GRDC has identified gazania as a weed threat and is responding by investing in research to determine its distribution and abundance, review current control methods, and inform management strategies for the grains industry. In this podcast we hear from Dr Ali Bajwa, senior lecturer in weed science and agronomy at Melbourne's La Trobe University and South Australian grower Robin Schaefer on this episode. Contact: Dr Ali Bajwa, La Trobe University [email protected] Robin Schaefer, Bulla Burra Grower [email protected] More Information: Garden beauty turns into paddock pain Project Investment Code: ULA2402-002RTX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Groundbreaking innovation tends to happen through multidisciplinary approaches and a range of expertise. That statement has never been truer than in a new national project bringing together precision technologies, remote sensing, and modern machine capabilities with knowledge of weed ecology and population dynamics to predict the emergence of weed patches across paddocks. This project is part of the Grain Automate initiative bringing together weed science expertise from the University of Western Australia and Bayer Crop Science, drone imaging technology from Australian start up InFarm, and geospatial analytics from Canadian start up Geco Agriculture. This episode features Mike Ashworth from the UWA node of the Weed Management Initiative, Tom Giles, GRDC Enabling Technologies Senior Manager, and grower John Young. Contact: Dr Mike Ashworth Australian Herbicide resistance initiative, University of Western Australia [email protected] Tom Giles GRDC [email protected] John Young Grower and GRDC western panel member [email protected] More Information: Machinery innovations to revolutionise weed controlPartenerships and vision are key to an autonomous future Geco Agriculture InFarm Bayer Crop Science Project Investment Code: UWA2307-005RTX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shannen Davies’ idyllic childhood in Geraldton gave her a deep connection to the regions, and an appreciation for the innovation and growth happening in the farming space. Knowing agriculture has an incredible story to tell, Shannen uses her role as Communications Manager at InterGrain to ensure the groundbreaking research and innovation is given the platform it deserves. In this episode of GRDC In Conversation, host Oli Le Lievre chats with Shannen about her life-changing Nuffield scholarship journey and her infectious excitement for the grains industry, which she says is on the cusp of the next breeding revolution. GRDC in Conversation is a limited series GRDC Podcast. It features in-depth interviews with growers and other experts in the grains industry who share their expertise, knowledge and experiences by exploring their personal stories, history, influences and motivations. The views expressed in this podcast are solely those of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the views of GRDC, the interviewees’ employer, institution or other associated parties. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever wondered how to collect the perfect sample of cereal rust? This is the episode for you. Listen as Matthew Williams and Margarita Pietilainen from the Australian Cereal Rust survey team at the University of Sydney’s Plant Breeding Institute give a detailed description on how to gather and prepare rust samples from the paddock for postage. You’ll also hear from Dr Mumta Chhetri who leads the project. They analyse up to 1700 rust samples per year sent by growers and their agronomists from all over Australia, a vital GRDC investment. Contact: Dr Mumta Chhetri Research Fellow in Cereal Rust Pathology, University of Sydney [email protected] Matthew Williams Australian Cereal Rust Survey Team [email protected] Margerita Pietilainen Australian Cereal Rust Survey Team [email protected] More Information: More information on the Australian Cereal Rust Survey: https://www.sydney.edu.au/science/our-research/research-areas/life-and-environmental-sciences/cereal-rust-research/rust-reports.html Visit the Australian Cereal Rust Survey 2025 Pathogen Map (interactive): https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1O9jxjzCUzlallX_981PIlJEuvWPTYvQ&ll=0%2C0&z=4 GRDC’s rust sample collection guide: https://grdc.com.au/resources-and-publications/all-publications/factsheets/2025/how-to-collect-a-rust-sample Or log into https://my.grdc.com.au/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode explores the rise in fungicide resistance in Australian crops like wheat and barley by discussing work being done at Horsham Smart Farm in the Wimmera region of Victoria. Scientists from the Australian Fungicide Resistance Extension Network (AFREN) including plant pathology research leader Dr Joshua Fanning and research scientist Melissa Cook are intentionally creating conditions to attract diseases to help decipher which varieties are more susceptible to disease. The Australian Fungicide Resistance Extension Network (AFREN) is a GRDC investment led by Curtin University. Contact: Dr Joshua Fanning Plant Pathology Research Leader, Agriculture Victoria [email protected] More information: AFREN website Horsham Smart Farm Groundcover article - Finding strategies to preserve disease resistance Agriculture Victoria - Cereal disease guide 2025 GRDC - Wheat disease update- rust and Septoria Project Code: CUR2302-002RTX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With farming roots deep in the south coast of WA, Julianne Hill’s career path has taken many twists and turns. Supporting farmers to reach their full potential has always been her focus, and that’s helped greatly by the long-term relationships she’s built over many rides in headers and cups of tea around kitchen tables. Having led the GRDC grower networks for more than a decade, she knows the impact meaningful research can have on on-farm outcomes. In this episode of GRDC In Conversation, host Oli Le Lievre chats with Julianne about the challenges of starting farming from scratch, the loss of identity she felt after selling her farm and what life after farming looks like for Julianne, which is just as energised as ever! GRDC in Conversation is a limited series GRDC Podcast. It features in-depth interviews with growers and other experts in the grains industry who share their expertise, knowledge and experiences by exploring their personal stories, history, influences and motivations. The views expressed in this podcast are solely those of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the views of GRDC, the interviewees’ employer, institution or other associated parties. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Think twice when it comes to prophylactic spraying. That's the advice to southern growers this season. When disease pressure is low, reducing spraying means reducing costs. But just how should growers make the often-risky decision not to spray? To find out more we spoke to Nick Poole from FAR Australia and the Australian Fungicide Resistance Network, otherwise known as AFREN. Contact: Nick Poole FAR Australia & AFREN [email protected] More Information: AFREN FAR Australia Project Investment Code: UR2302-002RTX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Growers in Western Australia need to be on the lookout for barley scald as it is increasing in prevalence and severity, including virulence onto varieties that have previously been rated as resistant. In this podcast we talk to senior research scientists at WA's Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), Andrea Hills and Dr Kithsiri Jayasena about what growers can do to combat barley scald in the season ahead. AFREN is a GRDC initiative to empower growers to mitigate the impact of fungicide resistance in Australian crops. WA DPIRD is a partner in this network, which is coordinated by the CCDM at Curtin University. Contacts: Andrea Hills, DPRID [email protected] Dr Kithsiri Jayasena, DPIRD [email protected] More Information: AFREN AFREN Management Guide Understanding Funcicide Resistance Fungicide resistance in barley Project Investment Code: CUR2302-002RTX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fritz Bolten is so dedicated to making agriculture work in Western Australia’s rugged Kimberley region he’s tried growing more than 26 different crops. He owns Oasis Farms, a 573 ha irrigated cropping enterprise in the Ord Valley growing chia, corn, chickpeas, mungbeans, cotton and sorghum forage seed. In this episode of GRDC In Conversation, host Oli Le Lievre chats with Fritz about why he’s transitioning to an exclusively cotton and corn rotation. His ‘have a go’ approach to farming has led to some big wins, but also some losses along the way, as he navigates the extreme monsoon weather conditions, logistical hurdles and limited infrastructure of the vast subtropical north. GRDC in Conversation is a limited series GRDC Podcast. It features in-depth interviews with growers and other experts in the grains industry who share their expertise, knowledge and experiences by exploring their personal stories, history, influences and motivations. The views expressed in this podcast are solely those of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the views of GRDC, the interviewees’ employer, institution or other associated parties. GRDC Project Code: HAG2308-001SAX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s an ever-present challenge for Australian grain growers, but understanding how fungicide resistance develops, and what can be done to manage it, is key to protecting crops, and keeping disease pressure low. In this episode at the Centre for Crop and Disease Management (CCDM) at Curtin University, Dr Nola D’Souza explains how her team detects and tracks fungicide resistance in the lab, the role of AFREN, and the practical steps growers can take to slow its spread. The Australian Fungicide Resistance Extension Network (AFREN) is a GRDC investment, led by Curtin University. CCDM is a partnership between GRDC and Curtin University. Contact: Dr Nola D’Souza Centre for Crop and Disease Management (CCDM), Curtin University [email protected] More Information: AFRENCCDM Project Investment Code: CUR2302-002RTX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Growers in Western Australia are well aware of the benefits of growing legumes in their rotation, but often have concerns about their reliability and can lack confidence in their production. A GRDC investment with the Grower Group Alliance is aiming to change that, and in a four-part series, we'll be tackling the agronomy, profitability, marketing, and harvesting of growing legumes in WA. In this episode, we tackle the first part of that equation: how to grow them. Joined by agVivo agronomist, and Moora grower, Erin Cahill, listen to how he grows lentils and lupins, plus some agronomic advice for growing other key legumes. Contact: Erin Cahill agVivo [email protected] More Information: Profitable legumes becoming a reality Project Investment Code: GGA2110-002SAX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to GRDC’s National Variety Trials, or NVT, new variety podcast series, where Australia's leading breeding companies share their latest releases for the 2026 growing season. When it comes to choosing the right variety, NVT is the only independent variety information source trusted by Australian growers. In GRDC's 2025 grower survey, nine out of 10 growers accessed NVT information, and 94 per cent of those said it influenced their variety selection. Every variety featured in this podcast has been trialled through NVT, the largest independent trial program in the world. This podcast focuses on wheat. There is a separate podcast for other crops, including barley, canola and chickpea. Contact: LongReach Plant Breeders Australian Grain Technologies (AGT) Australian Grain & Forage Seeds (AGF Seeds) RAGT InterGrain More Information: You can find out more information about the varieties featured in this podcast at www.nvt.grdc.com.au , alongside individual breeder websites. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to GRDC’s National Variety Trials, or NVT new variety podcast series, where Australia's leading breeding companies share their latest releases for the 2026 growing season. When it comes to choosing the right variety, NVT is the only independent variety information source trusted by Australian growers. In GRDC's 2025 grower survey, nine out of 10 growers accessed NVT information, and 94 per cent of those said it influenced their variety selection. Every variety featured in this podcast has been trialled through NVT, the largest independent trial program in the world. This podcast focuses on barley, canola, and chickpea. There's a separate podcast for wheat. Contacts: Australian Grain Technologies (AGT) InterGrain Australian Grain & Forage Seeds (AGF Seeds) Pioneer BASF AustraliaNuseed Nutrien Ag Solutions (Dyna-Gro) NSW Department of Primary Industries (Chickpea Breeding Australia) More Information: You can find out more information about the varieties featured in this podcast at www.nvt.grdc.com.au , alongside individual breeder websites. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When it comes to storing fertiliser on-farm, small mistakes can turn into big problems. In this GRDC podcast, Grain Storage Extension Team member, Ben White shares practical advice on the dos and don’ts of fertiliser storage. From choosing quality product and limiting handling, through to managing moisture and avoiding dangerous silo blockages. He also highlights the safety risks growers need to be aware of, and where to find trusted resources to help with planning ahead. Contact: Ben White Grain Storage Extension Team [email protected] More Information: GRDC publication Investing in fertiliser storage infrastructure, authors Cussons Media and Fertiliser Australia Project Investment Codes: CMP2202-001SAX PRB2412-001SAX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

No matter what crop you grow, or livestock you run, the soil beneath your boots is the foundation of your farm's productivity, profitability, and long-term sustainability. And while soil has always been a cornerstone for grain growers, there's never been a consistent way to define, measure, monitor, or report on soil health in Australia. That's why GRDC has invested in the development of a national Soil Health Framework to close this gap and give growers the tools they need to manage soil more effectively. The work is being led by CSIRO in collaboration with a network of research partners. To find out more, this podcast features project lead, CSIRO's Dr Mark Farrell, Dr Stirling Roberton, who is a research scientist, also at CSIRO, and from the University of Western Australia, Emeritus Professor Lynette Abbott. Contacts: Dr Mark Farrell Principal Research Scientist, CSIRO [email protected] Dr Stirling Roberton Research Scientist, CSIRO [email protected] Lynette Abbott Emeritus Professor, University of Western Australia [email protected] More Information: National Blueprint to standardise soil health across Australian agriculture Development of a soil health framework for Australian agricultural production systems Project Investment Code: CSP2504-015RTX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Growers around the Eradu area of Western Australia's northern growing region have been deep ripping for many years. Now they're going back and re-ripping for a second, third, fourth, and even fifth time with different machinery as it has progressed over the years. It's all about getting highly alkaline surface soil down deeper in the profile to address subsoil acidity, and at the same time, managing compaction to greater depths. This episode features Craig Topham from Agrarian Management and is part of a five-part GRDC series looking at managing soil constraints in Western Australia. Craig has three clients in the Eradu area, all aiming to achieve the same result, but doing it with different machinery and varied approaches. *A note for listeners. This podcast does not cover all products in the market. Different products may have different costs and benefits. Contact: Craig Topham Agrarian Management [email protected] More Information: Agrarian Project Investment Code: PLT2409-001SAX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fungicide resistance is a serious threat to cropping. When all available registered fungicides are no longer effective at managing disease, options for widespread disease control become limited, and the result is high yield losses. So, when a gateway mutation, the first step toward fungicide resistance in wheat powdery mildew (WPM), was detected in samples collected in Western Australia, alarm bells went off. In this episode we speak to Andrea Hills, research scientist with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development in Western Australia, about what growers can do to help. This podcast is a part of the Australian Fungicide Resistance Extension Network (AFREN). Contact: Andrea Hills Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development [email protected] More Information: Potential for fungicide resistance detected in Experance wheat powdery mildew Project Investment Code: CUR2302-002RTX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices