With early findings of wheat infected with cereal rusts, graingrowers who fear their crops are harbouring disease can quickly test for confirmation and advice on the correct management strategy through a comprehensive Western Australian diagnostic network.

The network first raised the alarm when ascochyta blight infiltrated Western Australia’s chickpea crop in 1999 and it later discovered a new strain of stem rust which had overcome resistance in the wheat variety Camm.

"Western Australia growers have monitored crops more closely in recent years due to the influence of TOPCROP groups and agronomic advisors, so this service was established to support them scientifically," said the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) supported project leader Dominie Wright of the Department of Agriculture.

The service was quickly embraced by growers after its 1998 introduction, with 876 samples tested in 1999.

Although favourable conditions in 2000 and 2001 reduced the disease threat and limited the number of samples tested, the system has continued to be refined.

"The protocols we use in our diagnosis have been updated and we’re implementing a QA system to ensure everything is done right," Ms Wright explained.

"With predictions of rust outbreaks this season, we’re preparing for a busy year."

The GRDC Western Regional Panel grower member responsible for Crop Protection, Andrew Lee of Dumbleyung, praised the project, saying it was important for growers across the state to have access to accurate and timely diagnostic support.

"The immediate and correct identification of disease presence helps growers quickly manage outbreaks and minimise potential financial damage," he said.

"For example, correctly differentiating between leaf and stem rust enables a grower to implement an appropriate control strategy."