Australia
October 1, 2013
Investment in relevant grains research, development and extension (RD&E) is critical for the ongoing growth and viability of the nation’s cropping industry, according to the new Chair of the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) Board.
Richard Clark, a grain grower and company director from northern New South Wales, today officially commences in his role as GRDC Chair, taking over from Keith Perrett who held the position for the past six years.
“The Australian grains sector is a significant contributor to the national economy and to the sustainability of rural and regional communities,” Mr Clark said.
“GRDC’s investment in RD&E activities – on behalf of growers and the Australian Government – underpins the grains industry’s success so it is vital that the organisation continues to be well placed and equipped to respond to industry challenges.”
Mr Clark said he was looking forward to contributing to the delivery of research and development outcomes designed to boost levy payers’ yields and returns.
“Without investment in the right RD&E, the grains industry would go backwards,” Mr Clark said.
“GRDC-funded programs are producing new technology every year and developing improved farming systems over time that create efficiencies and yield gains on-farm.
“However, we also need to focus on ways of reducing growers’ significant input costs – like fuel and nitrogen – in order to increase the viability of Australian grain growing businesses.
“By world standards, Australia is a relatively small grain producer but in terms of R&D, we need to be a global player collaborating with public and private researchers, both domestically and overseas, to bring the best available technology to Australia,” he said.
“Collaboration between GRDC and its research partners, to ensure world-class research infrastructure and personnel, is imperative to Australia’s competitive edge in a global market.”
Mr Clark has spent the lead up to his official appointment meeting growers and industry representatives to talk about GRDC priorities for the future and plans to visit different grower regions over the next few months to build a clear picture of the R&D strategies that will deliver the best possible returns to the GRDC’s primary stakeholders.
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