Changes to the regulations governing the soft wheat variety EGA2248 have been made following consultations between the Department of Agriculture Western Australia, the Grains Research Development Corporation (GRDC) and the Soft Wheat Growers Association. 

Department of Agriculture Director of Crop Research Keith Alcock said the success of on-going rust management practices had made it possible to amend some of the conditions placed on growing EGA2248 and to reduce the amount of paperwork required. 

“The Department undertook random inspections for rust in 2004 and 2005 and no significant rust infections were found.   

“The Department and GRDC are pleased with the overall compliance of the growers with the EGA2248 protocols and their demonstrated ability to implement the best management package. 

The key amendments to conditions for 2006 are:

Growers will be offered a 5 year contract to grow EGA2248 instead of the annual contract.  DAWA will have the option of terminating the contract early if EGA2248 needs to be withdrawn.

Growers will only be required to carry out the late spring fungicide application if rust is detected, although DAWA will retain the right to request that a special fungicide application in the interests of broader industry protection.

The $110 administration and inspection fee will be removed.

Growers can grow up to 50 per cent of their wheat crop as EGA2248 or up to a total 1000ha, which ever is the greater.

Growers will have the option of continuing to grow their seed from the 2004 and 2005 season.

Growers must still sign a production agreement before planting EGA2248, must use a seed treatment and must not grow Tincurrin, Corrigin or Harrismith. A ban on farmer to farmer trading remains in place.

The $4/t end point royalty remains unchanged.

In 2005, 155 growers grew EGA2248 over a total of around 25000 ha.  A favourable finish to the season had a very positive impact and enabled growers to optimise protein levels with the majority of deliveries meeting the soft classification.

DAWA will send new contracts to all current EGA2248 growers by end of March.

New growers interested in purchasing EGA2248 seed can contact Tress Walmsley on 0404 819 543 or 9753 0312.