The Liebe Group has kicked off 2025 with great momentum, starting with releasing their annual Research and Development Book and successfully running their first event—The Harvest Review Day on February 13th. The event brought together local growers for an interactive afternoon of learning, discussion, and planning for the season ahead.
The day featured trial presentations and an engaging discussion on falling numbers, hectolitre weights, and varieties led by Dion Nicol (DPIRD).
Industry experts presented key topics, including canola establishment with Living Farm, fertiliser toxicity in canola with CSBP, and managing wheat yield penalties from IBS herbicides with FMC. Summit Fertilizers shared insights on wheat nitrogen and potassium application rates, and Nutrien covered herbicide combinations to combat glyphosate-resistant ryegrass. These sessions provided valuable takeaways for growers, offering practical strategies for applying trial findings in their operations.
Another key focus of the event was agronomic decision-making for the upcoming season, presented by Liebe Group staff and leading experts, with discussions around rotational strategies (Riskwi$e project), stubble management, and early-sown canola.
Chris O'Callaghan, the Liebe Group's executive officer, and Yvette Oliver (CSIRO) led a discussion on the Riskwi$e trial, exploring the decision-making behind rotational strategies. Amber Martin, the Liebe group's projects assistance officer, and John Broster (CSU) presented stubble height management, covering its impact on moisture retention, crop yield, and disease carryover. Deania Dundon, the liebe group R&D coordinator, provided insights into early-sown canola, highlighting key findings from the 2024 trial.
The Liebe Groups Administration officer, Tannyth Shackell, commented, "Liebe members were able to take a deep dive into the 2024 trial results, taking away information to help them prepare for the upcoming season."
The event also included a presentation from Maya grower Brendon McAlpine (Elserae Agriculture), who shared his experience with soil amelioration using a Horsch Tiger. He outlined the findings from the farmer-scale trial conducted beside the Liebe main trial site in 2024, providing valuable on-the-ground perspectives for those looking to implement similar practices.
When sharing his thoughts on the day, the Liebe Group executive officer Chris O'Callaghan said, "The day was very informative and a great way for our members to connect with industry and research partners."
The day wrapped up with a sundowner, offering attendees the chance to continue conversations, ask follow-up questions, and network.
The Liebe Group would like to thank all the members and industry representatives who attended the day for sharing their expertise and helping to make the day a success.
What's Coming Up in 2025?
The Liebe Group has a full calendar of events planned for 2025, with the next key event being the AGM and Season Launch on Wednesday, March 5th, at 3 pm, to be held at the Liebe Group Office. This event will provide an opportunity to prepare for the year to come.
The Liebe Group is also excited to have Georgia Keeffe join the team as a Graduate Research and Development Officer, bringing fresh enthusiasm and additional support to the group's research projects.
The season launch is a significant new addition to our calendar. This event is open to everyone; it is designed to introduce the Liebe Group's 2025 activities, including the Carbon Farming Outreach Program.
The event will bring together industry leaders and growers for discussion on key topics, with expert speakers covering:
- Global insights - Vitor Pistoia (Grains and oilseeds analyst, Raboresearch) and Theo Saroukos (Director, Agribusiness Risk Treasury Management)
- What you need to know about carbon - Catherine Bell (RSM)
- Carbon-neutral grain supply chains - Trevor Lucas (CBH Group)
This is set to be an informative and engaging event, which will provide growers with the opportunity to gain valuable insights from industry experts, stay up to date with emerging trends, and connect with fellow growers and industry representatives in a friendly learning environment.
About the Liebe Group: The Liebe Group's purpose is to facilitate collective local knowledge that advances, unites and reduces risks for farming businesses in the region.
The group is a leading grower force in agricultural research and community development, committed to advancing farming practices, fostering innovation, and empowering local communities. Through collaborative efforts and cutting-edge local research, the group continues to be a catalyst for positive change in the agricultural landscape. For more information, visit www.liebegroup.org.au