Westerna Australian graingrowers could benefit from a $37 per tonne premium by growing durum wheat rather than Australian Hard (AH) and noodle grades.

Durum provides a premium over Australian Hard, with gross margins higher than bread and noodle wheats, even with a slight yield penalty.

Department of Agriculture researcher Shahajahan Miyan said Australian durum is internationally recognised and regarded by Italian millers and processors as equal to or possibly better than their's.

Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) supported research has evaluated the adaptation and agronomic suitability of new durum wheat varieties and is extending that information to WA growers, who delivered just 6600 tonnes of durum in 2003/04.

Durum working groups hope to expand the industry to 100,000 tonnes in 2010.

GRDC support has helped establish Durum Cell Groups at Northam, Bruce Rock, Mukinbudin, Dowerin and Katanning to build on current information and expand the industry.

WA has ideal climatic conditions for producing durum, with more than 3.2 million hectares suited to the variety.

All durum varieties are triple rust resistant and moderately resistant to Septoria tritici and Wollaroi, Tamaroi and the new variety Kalka are the varieties most suited to WA conditions.

Durum grows well in deep, well drained, red clay loam soils with pH of 5.5 or above.

It should follow a grass-free grain legume, such as field peas, chickpea, lentil, vetch or faba bean, or a high quality legume-based pasture to achieve high protein premiums without applying high rates of nitrogen.

Durum 1 (ADR1) requires 13 per cent protein and ADR2, 11.5 per cent.

CBH currently receives durum at Merredin and the Metro Grain Centre.

Further information: Shahajahan Miyan, Tel 08 9690 2152