Wheat-breeding joint venture Enterprise Grains Australia (EGA) has signalled Pacific Seeds as the preferred commercial partner to support a national wheat breeding program that accelerates the delivery of superior varieties to Australian farmers, with a particular focus on New South Wales and Queensland wheat growers

The decision follows a call for expressions of interest from companies which share EGA’s objective of delivering elite varieties to growers.

EGA is a partnership between the Queensland Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries, NSW Department of Primary Industries and the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC).

EGA Chairman, Professor Beth Woods, said discussions have commenced to determine details for the alliance. “The proposal is for EGA to license germplasm to Pacific Seeds to bolster the uptake of varieties released by the partnership”, Professor Woods said.

“EGA already has an excellent scientific and technical base in existing government partners in both NSW and QLD,” Professor Woods said.

“The inclusion of a commercial partner will allow EGA to focus on the strategic investment in the pre-breeding development of important agronomic and quality traits for Northern and Eastern Australian growers.

Pacific Seeds began Australian operations from Biloela in Queensland in 1962, and has since expanded nation-wide and developed a significant export business.

Pacific Seeds Wheat Business Manager, Dr. Brian Hare, said the company is willing to make a long-term commitment to the alliance.

“We have the experience and expertise in plant breeding, seed production, marketing and distribution to deliver EGA’s new varieties to growers more effectively and efficiently.

“A joint management committee will be set up, which will allow for on-going consultation on the development of new varieties,” Dr. Hare said.