Farmanco independent trial research
We believe there is an ongoing need to provide independent research and develop new technologies.
Current Trials
We expanded the number of research sites in 2014 to include Moora and Kojonup, and then Dowerin in 2015. Farmanco have plans to further expand the number of trial sites. This is due to considerable client interest and increasing numbers of agribusinesses wanting to be involved in our independent research programme.
All research sites will have a key long term trial base that will run for a minimum of four to five years. Each site will follow the traditional rotation that operates in that district each year.
The focus is simple, location driven research, with an opportunity for demonstration of products across a traditional suite of crops and pasture, where the opportunity arises.
2017 Trials Update
The program continues at our two key trial sites – Dowerin and Woodanilling.
Background
Farmanco has been involved in innovative and important research since the 1990’s.
In 2011, we established a long term research site at Woodanilling which has been investigating the CSIRO premise that most Western Australian soil tests require only a maintenance level of phosphorus. This site has been expanded with the support of progressive agribusiness companies, who understand the benefits of an independent trial assessment process and the comprehensive extension of results.
Trial Results
Our aim is to provide a focal point for the local Farmanco team to assess the fit for new products to the market and new uses of products already available. Clients are also demanding a higher level of agronomic knowledge of new varieties entering the market.
Trial results are collated across the Farmanco trial sites and promoted and explained through our monthly client newsletter Farmanco Facts, Outlook days and field walks. Our agronomy team also provides extension one-on-one to clients.
Research Team
Agronomist based in the central wheatbelt, Peter has an intricate knowledge of dryland farming and commercial expertise.
Prior to joining Farmanco he was a founding owner of – and agronomist for 18 years – with The Farm Shop. From 1998, Peter was the key agronomist, supplying customers with agronomic support and technical information
Peter has a wealth of knowledge around dryland farming, with extensive experience in pesticides, pastures and varieties, as well as crop nutrition. Peter can offer clients up-to-date, sound, cost-effective advice, maximising gross profit and minimising risk over the cropping program.
Contact Peter on 0427 427 492 or email him at pborstel@farmanco.com.au.
Agronomist based in Moora, David services clients in the central midlands area of Western Australia. He is passionate about driving productivity growth for his client base, and is quick to adopt new technology and use patterns.
David enjoys working with farming systems and rotations where he can apply his crop selection, crop protection, soil science, plant nutrition and pasture knowledge.
Contact David on 0458 696 724 or email him at dcameron@farmanco.com.au.
Agronomist and Farm Management consultant, Ben arrived with extensive industry experience.
Ben has a strong knowledge of the WA farming system and through DAFWA has managed a range of agronomy research and extension projects designed to assist growers manage risks, reduce costs and improve their profitability.
Based at Esperance, contact Ben on 0400 975 537 or email him at bcurtis@farmanco.com.au.
Agronomist since 2009 and based in Albany, Brent has worked in agronomy since 1990 having spent 14 years with Elders (Katanning and Albany).
Prior to Elders, Brent spent four years as an Adviser working with the Department of Agriculture and Food, WA (DAFWA) in Manjimup and Lake Grace.
Brent’s focus is canola and cereal systems, especially integrated pest and weed management
Contact Brent on 0488 428 333 or email him at brent@farmanco.com.au.
